Compact Pachyphytum
pachyphytum compactum
Also known as: ["Compact Moonstone"]
Overview
A succulent species with fleshy, compact leaves arranged in rosettes, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Pachyphytum |
| Botanical Name: | Pachyphytum compactum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or pumice for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or leggy stems unless reshaping is required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in east-facing windows for ideal light; if outdoors, provide shade during peak afternoon hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near large windows with direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining succulent or cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; allow soil to dry between waterings.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–80°F (15–27°C); prefers cooler temperatures in winter (50–55°F or 10–13°C) for dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when growth slows.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also be used but are slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem or leaf cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep lightly moist until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid (50–60%), bright indirect light; protect from direct sun until roots form.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio); can also use succulent-specific propagation medium.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a rooting hormone with cytokinin.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks; fully established in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Clean scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium, humidity dome (optional).
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting to prevent rot; use a mister to maintain humidity; avoid overwatering until roots establish.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node; pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove any yellowing or diseased leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth to maintain health; shape the plant to encourage bushier growth; control size if needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, disinfectant (optional).
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during active growth; remove only necessary parts; allow cuts to callus if propagating pruned stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary if drainage becomes poor or growth slows.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage; use fresh succulent/cactus mix; handle roots carefully; avoid overwatering after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom; ensure pot has drainage holes; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, avoiding the leaves; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to every 3–4 weeks; increase in summer to every 1–2 weeks depending on heat and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil; ensure soil is loose and airy to prevent compaction.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; leaf drop or shriveling in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves become soft and translucent; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap in cold climates; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wrinkle or curl; color may fade; risk of sunburn if exposed to intense light without acclimation.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with a pebble tray or mister; ensure adequate ventilation to prevent heat buildup.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with leaves; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPachyphytum compactum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPachyphytum compactum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPachyphytum compactum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Pachyphytum compactum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, typically every 2-3 weeks depending on conditions.
Q: Does Pachyphytum compactum require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade; avoid prolonged direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Q: Is Pachyphytum compactum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
