Pachyveria 'Blue Tongue' is a captivating intergeneric hybrid, a cross between Pachyphytum and Echeveria, celebrated for its thick, fleshy leaves that often display a striking blue-grey coloration with hints of pink or purple, particularly along the edges, reminiscent of a "blue tongue." This attractive succulent forms compact rosettes and is a popular choice for adding unique color and texture to containers and succulent arrangements.
 
Key Features of Pachyveria 'Blue Tongue'
Thick, Fleshy Leaves: The leaves are typically quite thick and plump, characteristic of both parent genera.
Blue-Grey Coloration: The primary leaf color is usually a powdery blue-grey or silvery-blue.
Pink or Purple Edges: Often exhibits beautiful pink or purple hues along the leaf margins, enhancing its visual appeal. The intensity of these colors can vary with light and temperature.
Compact Rosette: Forms a relatively tight and symmetrical rosette of leaves.
Farina (Epicuticular Wax): The leaves are often covered in a powdery white or silvery coating (farina) that gives them a soft, matte finish.
Relatively Small to Medium Size: Generally remains a manageable size, suitable for container cultivation.
Potential for Offsets: Mature plants may produce offsets or "chicks" around the base.
Bell-Shaped Flowers: Can produce clusters of bell-shaped flowers on stalks, typically in shades of yellow or orange.
 
Care for Your Pachyveria 'Blue Tongue'
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its compact growth and coloration. Some direct morning sun or filtered afternoon sun is usually tolerated well. Insufficient light can lead to stretching (etiolation) and duller colors.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix amended with perlite or pumice is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering is a significant risk. Reduce watering during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to typical household humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosette.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger with drainage holes. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Protecting Farina: Handle the leaves gently to avoid damaging the powdery coating. Water from the base.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids. Treat any infestations promptly.
Fertilizing: Generally does not require heavy feeding. A diluted balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied sparingly once or twice during the active growing season (spring and summer).
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Offsets (Chicks): Carefully separate offsets that have developed their own root systems from the mother plant. Allow the cut surfaces to callus over for a day or two before planting them in well-draining soil.
Leaf Cuttings: Select healthy, plump leaves and allow the cut end to callus for several days. Place the callused leaf on top of well-draining soil or slightly bury the callused end. Mist lightly and provide indirect light until roots and new plantlets emerge.
Stem Cuttings: If the plant develops a stem, sections can be cut, allowed to callus, and then planted in well-draining soil.
 
Pachyveria 'Blue Tongue' is a charming and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent prized for its unique blue-grey foliage with attractive pink or purple edges. Its compact rosette form and potential for offsets make it a delightful addition to any succulent enthusiast's collection.
 
 
* 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.