Graptopetalum paraguayense, a porcelain succulent

Graptopetalum paraguayense doesn't owe its nickname of porcelain succulent to its blue or pink foliage, whose hues are reminiscent of the finest Chinese ceramics. This species of the Crassulaceae family, native to Mexico, has leaves so delicate they fall off as soon as you touch them.

Graptoetalum paraguayense is a succulent perennial with a creeping habit. It measures 20 centimetres in height and 60 centimetres in spread.

The drooping stems reach two metres in length and two centimetres in diameter. Fleshy and cylindrical, they break easily when handled.

Leaves grow in a spiral, forming rosettes ten to fifteen centimetres in diameter. They, too, are fragile and detach if touched. Spatulate, they are covered with bloom. Their color varies between green and light gray, as in graptopetalum pachyphyllum. In hot, dry weather, the foliage turns pale pink.

Graptopetalum paraguayense flowers in spring. The white, five-petaled flowers are spotted with red and resemble stars. They appear on a fifteen-centimetre flowering stem and last only a few days. However, the branched stem can bear several flowers, which bloom for several weeks.

Graptopetalum parguayense is not toxic. The fat plant poses no danger when touched or ingested.