How to grow ghost plant
Overview
Ghost plant (Graptopetalum paraguayense) is a rosette-forming succulent grown for its pale, ghostly foliage that shifts colour from grey-green to pink in cooler light. It is primarily used as a groundcover or filler in containers and dry garden beds, and thrives on neglect.
Soil Preparation
Ghost plant needs a very free-draining, gritty soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Mix 2 parts coarse sand or pumice with 1 part potting mix and 1 part perlite. Avoid heavy clay or water-retentive loam.
Growing Guide
Position ghost plant in part shade with protection from harsh afternoon sun, especially in hot climates. Use a free-draining gritty mix (2 parts coarse sand, 1 part compost, 1 part pumice) and plant rosettes at soil level, spaced 15–20 cm apart. Water only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 7–10 days in summer and every 2–3 weeks in winter. Avoid overhead watering to prevent rot.
Care
Feed once in early spring with a balanced liquid succulent fertiliser at half strength. Remove dead or shrivelled lower leaves to keep the rosette tidy and prevent rot. Repot every 2–3 years if the rosettes become crowded.
Companion Planting
Pair ghost plant with echeveria, sedum, and aeonium for a cohesive succulent display. Avoid planting near moisture-loving ferns or mint, which will keep the soil too wet and encourage rot.
Common Pests & Risks
Mealybugs are the most common pest, appearing as white cottony masses in leaf axils; treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab. Rot (crown or root) occurs from overwatering or poor drainage—remove affected rosettes, let the soil dry out, and replant in a grittier mix.
Troubleshooting
Leaves turning mushy: overwatering—let soil dry completely and reduce watering frequency. Leaves dropping off: too much shade or water stress—move to brighter spot and water less. Rosette stretching: insufficient light—move to part sun. White fuzz on leaves: mealybugs—treat with alcohol. Brown spots on leaves: sunburn—move to part shade.