Pachyphytum brevifolium has moderate disease resistance and is relatively sensitive to humidity. It is more prone to illness under high humidity and can develop root rot while dormant. In terms of care, Pachyphytum brevifolium tolerates drought but requires increased watering during the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Pachyphytum brevifolium is best suited to growers with some experience, as it can be difficult to care for, particularly during dormancy. It is especially appropriate for those who can dedicate time to its care through the winter months.
How to keep Pachyphytum Brevifolium.
Light
Native to dry regions, Pachyphytum brevifolium prospers in full sun; its native habitat is marked by intense sunlight and very little shade. It will also tolerate partial sun, giving it some flexibility in how it grows.
Temperature
Although Pachyphytum brevifolium can tolerate some heat, it prefers and grows best in cooler periods and becomes dormant in summer. In very hot summer conditions, provide shade to avoid scorching from strong sunlight. Watering should be cut back or stopped during the hottest months to prevent root rot. Winter and spring are when Pachyphytum brevifolium grows most vigorously. If temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
Pachyphytum brevifolium only needs light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the active growing season. Do not fertilize in winter or during summer dormancy. Use less fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying fertilizer. Feeding helps maintain healthy growth and promotes flowering.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Pachyphytum brevifolium, pick a pot slightly larger than the current one that has good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Carefully take the plant out of its old pot, brush off excess soil, and place it at the same depth in the new pot. Wait a few days before watering so any root damage can heal. Repot in spring or fall and keep it in a brightly lit spot.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Pachyphytum
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 10 cm to 15 cm
- Mature Spread
- 15 cm to 20 cm
- Leaf Color
- Powder Blue, Light Gray
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Pink, Yellow
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Native Area
- Mexico
