The Succulent Ghost Plant

Succulents, which are as plants that have the ability to store water in their enlarged, fleshy leaves, stems or roots, are becoming more and more useful in outdoor gardens and on patios. With this increased use outside, it is only natural for them to begin to migrate inside, to become part of the beautiful interior of homes. The Ghost Plant is a succulent plant whose categorization is that of an exotic houseplant that is worth considering the next time you are in the market for something a little different.

Ghost Plant, also known as Graptopetalum paraguayense, has silvery-blue, water engorged rosettes that cover bluish stems and occasionally will develop white blooms. This succulent, which originated in Mexico, is very delicate to the touch. The leaves of this exotic houseplant have a tendency to fall off when handled too much or roughly. With this in mind, these plants need to be left alone as much as possible in order to keep them from loosing their leaves. Although most people do not want their plants dropping their leaves, this can also be a positive trait. Dropped leaves are easy to propagate, just place the fallen leaf in a well-draining potting soil mix and wait for the new plant to root and grow into a beautiful new Ghost Plant.

Care of the Ghost Plant is relatively easy and does not require much time. This exotic plant thrives on bright sunlight, but does tolerate some shade. If this plant is in bright sunlight, there is a chance that it will have one and half-inch white blooms in early spring. The soil that best suites this plant is well-drained and should be comprised of one part peat moss, one part loam and two parts sand or perlite. This soil should be allowed to dry between waterings, making sure to not over water. Remember, this is a succulent and as such too much water can be deadly for it. Reduce the amount of water used in the winter months. Fertilizing should occur monthly, but a balanced fertilizer that has been diluted to half strength should be used. This plant should be repotted annually and should occur in the early spring before any new growth begins to occur. The only insect problem this exotic houseplant may have is mealy bugs. Be sure to watch for these and take care of them at the first sign of their arrival. If the requirements are met, this exotic houseplant will provide any home with many years of beauty.

The Ghost Plant, sometimes called a Mother-of-Pearl plant, is an exotic houseplant that thrives on neglect. Just water it occasionally, set it in the sunlight, feed monthly, repot when needed and watch for mealy bugs. The less attention this plant receives the better, especially physical contact that can cause it to drop its leaves. This exotic houseplant can be easily enjoyed both indoors and outdoors if it is cared for correctly. For more information concerning this beautiful exotic houseplant visit, www.directgardening.com, www.davesgarden.com or www.desert-tropicals.com.