Pachyphytum compactum f. variegata

Scientific Name

Pachyphytum compactum f. variegata

Accepted Scientific Name

Scientific Classification

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Subtribe: Sedinae
Genus: Pachyphytum

Description

Pachyphytum compactum f. variegata is a small, compact succulent with variegated and distinctively patterned leaves. The stem is short, stout, up to 6 inches (15 cm) long, and often basally branched. The leaves are light green to grey-white with cream and yellow variegation, heavy white veins, and with deep purple tips when gently stressed by the full sun or cool temperatures.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Pachyphytum will not tolerate frosts well. Temperatures below 20 °F (-6 °C) will kill the plant and temperatures which may go below 45 °F (7 °C) during an extended period should be avoided. It tolerates high heat and intense sunlight. As with most succulents from the Crassulaceae family, Pachyphytum can tolerate (and even appreciated) poor soil conditions so long as it is well-draining. It can thrive in full or partial sunlight.

Allow the soil to dry out before watering and be careful to avoid getting water on the leaves. In winter, the plants will require more water, as winter begins its active growth season. If you are unsure when to water your plant, watch the lowermost leaves for signs of drying and water them then. Pachyphytum is far more likely to survive under-watering than overwatering. The thick, fleshy leaves will appear wilted and a bit "under-full" when they need water.

One of the most common pests to houseplants is the mealybug, and your Pachyphytum may fall prey to this pest. The symptoms of a mealybug infestation are slowed or stopped growth (though in summer this is a normal sign of dormancy). If this occurs without apparent cause, remove the plant from the pot and examine the roots or look at the leaf-stem junctions.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Pachyphytum.