Moonstones

Overview

Moonstones is a slow, plump rosette succulent whose fat, egg-shaped leaves come in dreamy pastel shades of lavender, blue and pink, each dusted with a chalky bloom that makes them look like sugared almonds or polished moonstones. Beautiful and easy, it is a favourite for its soft colours - just handle it gently to keep the bloom.

Origin & Natural Habitat

Pachyphytum oviferum comes from rocky cliffs in the mountains of central Mexico, growing in bright, dry, well-drained conditions. It is closely related to echeverias and shares their easy, drought-loving nature.

Appearance

Compact rosettes of very plump, rounded, egg-shaped leaves in soft lavender, bluish and pink pastels, all coated in a fine powdery, chalky bloom (farina) that gives the frosted, moonstone look. Arching stems of pink-and-orange bell flowers appear in late winter to spring.

Why People Love It - Qualities & Benefits

People adore the plump, pastel, frosted leaves - among the prettiest of all succulents - and its easy, forgiving care. It is a slow, tidy, jewel-like plant that brings soft colour to a bright sill and is lovely in arrangements.

Care

Light

Bright light with some direct sun brings out the best pastel colours and keeps the rosette tight and plump - a sunny windowsill is ideal. In low light it greens, stretches and loses its frosted charm.

Watering

Soak when the gritty soil is fully dry, then wait; the plump leaves store plenty of water and pucker slightly when truly thirsty. Keep drier in winter. Water into the soil, not over the leaves, to protect the powdery bloom, and never let it sit wet.

Soil & Potting

A gritty, free-draining succulent mix in a pot with drainage. Sharp drainage keeps the roots healthy and prevents the rot that overwatering causes.

Humidity & Temperature

Warm, dry air suits it; it dislikes humidity. Ordinary dry room air is fine. Keep it above about 5°C and drier over winter.

Feeding

A much-diluted succulent feed once or twice in the growing season is ample. It is slow-growing and thrives on lean soil.

Repotting

Repot every couple of years in spring as it grows, handling by the stem rather than the leaves to avoid rubbing off the bloom, which does not grow back on an old leaf. Settle into fresh gritty mix.

Propagation

Propagate from whole leaves or stem cuttings: gently remove a plump leaf or short stem, let it callus for several days, and set it on gritty soil to root. Handle carefully to preserve the bloom on the parent.

Common Problems & Pests

Overwatering rot is the main danger. Mealybugs can hide between the fat leaves. Handling rubs off the chalky bloom, leaving permanent shiny finger-marks (harmless but cosmetic). Stretching and greening mean too little light.

Toxicity & Safety

Moonstones is not toxic to people or pets, making it one of the safer pretty succulents to grow around children and animals - though, as always, it is best to discourage pets from chewing it.

Pros & Cons

Pros: gorgeous plump pastel leaves, easy and forgiving, non-toxic, easy to propagate, lovely in arrangements. Cons: the chalky bloom rubs off permanently if handled, needs good light for colour, rots if overwatered.

Best Suited For

A beautiful, easy pick for anyone who loves soft-coloured succulents and has a bright windowsill - forgiving enough for beginners and safe around pets and children.

FAQ

Why did shiny marks appear on the leaves? The powdery bloom rubbed off where it was handled; it doesn't regrow on that leaf, so hold the plant by its stem.

Why has mine gone green and leggy? Too little light - move it brighter and new growth returns to its plump, pastel form.