The Pachyphytum longifolium, often referred to as the Long-Leaf Pachyphytum or sometimes Long Leaf Moonstones, is a captivating succulent known for its elongated, fleshy leaves and elegant appearance. Here's a comprehensive overview of this plant:  
 
Origin and Habitat:
Native to Mexico, specifically the states of Querétaro, Hidalgo, and Veracruz.  
It grows in rocky habitats and dry shrubland, typically at higher elevations.
 
Characteristics:
Leaves: The most distinctive feature is its long, narrow, and thick leaves, which can grow up to 15-20 cm in length. These leaves are typically bluish-green to gray-green and are covered in a powdery, waxy coating called farina or epicuticular wax. This farina gives the leaves a soft, silvery or frosted appearance and helps protect them from sunburn and water loss. The leaves are arranged in a loose rosette and may have a slightly curled or recurved form.  
Stems: It can develop short stems and sometimes grows pups (offsets) from the base.  
Size: Pachyphytum longifolium typically grows to be about 15-20 cm tall and wide, forming a moderate-sized succulent.
Flowers: In spring, it produces arching stalks with bell-shaped flowers that can be pink, red, or orange. The flowers emerge from the center of the rosette.  
Farina: The powdery coating on the leaves is easily disturbed by touch or overhead watering, so it's best to handle the leaves gently.
Color Change: With good light exposure, especially in winter, the leaves can develop a pink or lavender hue, adding to its visual appeal.  
 
Care:
Light: Pachyphytum longifolium thrives in bright, indirect light to full sun. It needs at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to maintain its compact shape and vibrant colors. Be cautious of intense, direct summer sun, which can scorch the leaves. Indoor plants do well near south or east-facing windows. Rotate the plant occasionally for even growth.  
Water: Like most succulents, it is drought-tolerant and prefers the "soak and dry" method. Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry, and ensure excess water drains away. Reduce watering significantly during the winter dormancy period. Overwatering is a primary cause of root rot.  
Soil: It requires a well-draining soil mix, such as a commercial cactus or succulent mix amended with perlite, pumice, or sand (a 50/50 mix of soil and gritty material is often recommended).  
Temperature: It prefers warm temperatures between 10-29°C (50-85°F) and is not frost-hardy. Protect it from freezing temperatures (below -6°C or 20°F).
Humidity: It prefers low humidity levels and thrives in typical household conditions.  
Fertilizing: Feed sparingly with a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer during the active growing season (spring and fall, as Pachyphytum can be winter growers). Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to leggy growth.
Potting: Use pots with drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. Terracotta pots are a good choice as they allow for better aeration and moisture evaporation.
Pruning: Generally, pruning is not necessary, but you can remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance.
Toxicity: Pachyphytum species are generally considered non-toxic to pets and humans. However, it's always best to keep plants out of reach of curious children and animals to prevent any potential ingestion.
 
Propagation:
Pachyphytum longifolium can be easily propagated through:
Leaf cuttings: Gently twist off a healthy, fully grown leaf, ensuring a clean break from the stem. Allow the cut end to callous over for a few days in a dry, shaded area. Place the calloused leaf on top of well-draining succulent soil and lightly mist occasionally. Eventually, roots and a new plantlet will emerge.
Stem cuttings: Take a healthy stem cutting with a clean, sharp knife. Allow the cut end to callous over for a few days. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil, burying it enough to support it upright. Water sparingly until roots develop.  
Offsets (pups): If your plant produces offsets at the base, you can carefully separate them once they have developed their own roots and pot them individually.
 
The Pachyphytum longifolium is a striking and relatively low-maintenance succulent with elongated, powdery blue-green leaves that can take on pinkish hues in good light. Its unique appearance and ease of care make it a popular choice for succulent enthusiasts. Remember to provide plenty of light, water sparingly, and use well-draining soil for a thriving plant.  
Sources and related content
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide.  Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.