Scientific Name
Pachyphytum oviferum 'Variegata'
Accepted Scientific Name
Pachyphytum oviferum Purpus
Common Name(s)
Moonstones, Sugaralmond Plant
Synonym(s)
Pachyphytum oviferum f. variegata
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Subtribe: Sedinae
Genus: Pachyphytum
Origin
Pachyphytum oviferum 'Variegata' is a form of Pachyphytum oviferum selected for its variegated foliage.
Description
Pachyphytum oviferum 'Variegata' is a lovely succulent with chubby variegated leaves arranged in a rosette at the tips of short stems. The rosettes can reach up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. The leaves are pale blue-green to bluish-purple with irregular cream or yellow markings. The leaves measure up to 2 inches (5 cm) long, 1.2 inches (3 cm) wide, and 0.7 inches (1.7 cm) thick.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °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 that may go below 45 °F (7 °C) during the 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 appreciate) 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 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 over-watering. The thick, fleshy leaves will appear wilted and slightly "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 summer, this is a typical sign of dormancy).
See more at How to Grow and Care for Pachyphytum.
Links
- Back to genus Pachyphytum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
