Pachyveria 'Powder Puff' is an enchanting intergeneric hybrid, a cross between Pachypytum and Echeveria, celebrated for its densely packed rosettes of plump, silvery-blue leaves covered in a powdery farina. This charming succulent exhibits a soft, almost ethereal appearance, reminiscent of a delicate powder puff, making it a delightful addition to any succulent collection.
 
Key Features of Pachyveria 'Powder Puff'
Dense Rosettes: Forms compact and tightly packed rosettes of numerous leaves.
Plump, Rounded Leaves: The leaves are thick, fleshy, and somewhat rounded or ovate in shape.
Silvery-Blue Coloration: The leaves typically exhibit a beautiful silvery-blue or grey-blue hue.
Heavy Farina: Covered in a thick layer of powdery white or silvery farina, giving it a soft, matte appearance and contributing to its "powder puff" name. Handle with care to avoid rubbing it off.
Relatively Small Size: Generally remains a small to medium-sized succulent, perfect for containers.
Potential for Offsets: Mature plants may produce offsets or "chicks" around the base.
Bell-Shaped Flowers: Can produce clusters of bell-shaped flowers on short stalks, often in shades of pink or orange.
 
Care for Your Pachyveria 'Powder Puff'
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its compact growth and farina. Some gentle morning sun is usually tolerated well. Insufficient light can lead to stretching (etiolation) and a loss of the powdery coating.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix 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
Handling Farina: Handle the leaves as little as possible to avoid damaging the powdery coating. Water from the base of the plant.
Removing Dead Leaves: Gently 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.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
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. Be aware that the farina may not be as pronounced in young plants.
 
Pachyveria 'Powder Puff' is a delightful and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent prized for its soft, silvery-blue rosettes covered in a powdery bloom. Its unique appearance makes it a wonderful addition to any succulent collection, bringing a touch of gentle beauty.
 
 
* 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.