Graptopetalum Macdougallii (Laxmi Kamal)

Description

Graptopetalum Macdougallii or as it’s commonly called in India, ‘Laxmi Kamal’ is a low growing plant that forms a thick carpet of the soft-looking, starlike, blue-green, glossy leaves covered by waxy powder which gives the plants a smooth pearlescent look. It’s a great statement succulent but is a must have in Indian houses as it is seen as a good luck charm, is said to usher in Lakshmi (the Goddess of wealth), peace and good fortune into your home.

This Graptopetalum Macdougallii succulent enjoys spreading and clumping forming numerous new rosettes over the years, these are spread on long runners creating an expanding colony in a pot or bed. As it has a very compact low growing shape this succulent will do well on the window sill or study table and can be displayed happily on a balcony shelf or in shallow bowls and rock gardens. The tiny pale, star shaped flowers with marked petals bloom from late winter through spring.

A stress-free succulent, Laxmi Kamal thrives in plenty of bright light and needs little watering making it ideal for beginners as well as busy plant owners. It takes well to both indoor and outdoor conditions in India as long as it is given sufficient light and a fast-draining soil mix designed for succulents. The spreading habit of the Laxmi Kamal grows well when given some space to grow.

Key Features

• Bluish-green shimmering star-shaped rosettes that have a light waxy bloom
• These compact mat-forming plants are spread via runners offsets
• Associated with prosperity and good fortune in many Indian households
• Highly drought-tolerant once established
• Low-maintenance and easy to care for, ideal for beginners
• The small, star shaped blooms frequently turn pink or red as the plants mature.
• Suited to window sills, shallow bowls, and rock gardens
• A meaningful, low-fuss gifting choice for festivals and housewarmings

Care at a Glance

Product Specifications

What's in the Box

• 1 × Live Graptopetalum Macdougallii plant
• 1 × Pot (Bare-rooted/Pot: Optional)
• Well-draining potting mix
• Basic care guide

Important Notes

• Natural variation in rosette colour, size, and waxy coating is normal from plant to plant
• Some leaf drop during transit is common for succulents and the plant usually recovers within a week or two
• Don't touch the leaves too much because a coating on the leaves will rub off with constant handling 
• Avoid over-watering and water-logged soil especially during monsoons 
• Do not expose directly to the afternoon sun immediately after unpacking unless the plants have been gradually exposed over some period of time. 
• Plant leaves might look greener with much less blue tones in low light and will become blue in better lighting. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is my Laxmi Kamal losing its bluish-green shine?

A: Frequent handling of the plant will remove the waxy coating which is the source of the shine, so avoid handling the leaves excessively. Providing sufficient light is another factor that keeps this plant looking colorful and well-compacted.

Q: How often should you water the plant?

A: Soak and dry. You want the soil to be completely dry between waterings; it's about every 10-14 days depending on where you live. Overwatering will be the surest way to kill this succulent as well as the potential to suffer root rot when the soil remains too wet.

Q: Can this Graptopetalum Macdougallii plant grow indoors?

A: Yes, they certainly can grow indoors; plant them by a very bright window as they will tend to stretch or grow tall if they don't have adequate light and exposure to both direct and indirect light are preferred.

Q: Will this plant grow quickly?

A: This is a very slow-growing plant, although over the years you’ll see offset rosettes on runners, slowly spreading to create a fuller mat of plants over time.

Q: How should I fertilise my plant?

A: Light diluted succulent food once a few weeks in the spring/summer will encourage this lovely succulent's growth and colouration. Don't feed in winter. 

Q: Is Graptopetalum Macdougallii toxic to my pet? 

A: Macdougallii isn't going to harm you or your animals, and you can use this succulent around them. Although, as with all succulents, you still shouldn’t allow your pets to bite on plants.