Pachyphytum Cuicatecanum is a succulent plant from the Crassulaceae family, in the Echeveria genus. It is a species native to Cuicatlán, Oaxaca, Mexico, and was described as a new species in 2010. The mature plant has a slightly creeping stem, which can grow up to 56 cm or more, with branching starting about 8 cm from the base. The rosette has a diameter of 5-8 cm. The flower stalk is 27-35 cm long, bearing 12-16 flowers.
The leaves are covered with a thick layer of white powdery frost, making them similar in appearance to Echeveria species like "Snow Lotus," which is why it is named "Snow Beauty." This variety is relatively uncommon in China, and is often sold in seed form.
In winter, Pachyphytum Cuicatecanum sends out a scorpion-tail-shaped inflorescence between the leaves, producing orange-pink five-petaled flowers.
Growth Habits and Care Instructions
Pachyphytum Cuicatecanum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Its growing season is during the spring and fall, and it should receive as much light as possible. Outdoor cultivation is ideal. During this period, water generously, ensuring the soil is well-dried to about 70-80% before watering thoroughly. It is important to avoid letting the soil stay dry for extended periods. If the leaves become soft and wrinkled but not transparent, this is a sign of water deficiency. However, prolonged rain exposure should be avoided to prevent waterlogging and leaf rot.
In the summer, outdoor cultivation should avoid prolonged moisture in the soil, water accumulation in the leaf center, and direct sunlight after watering.
Once the soil is close to dryness, a small amount of water should be applied along the edge of the pot. When growing outdoors, shading and rain protection should be provided to prevent excessive water evaporation from the leaves, ensuring the plant does not become too leggy. For indoor care, good ventilation is essential, and water should be avoided during direct exposure to sunlight.
Soil for Planting
For Pachyphytum Cuicatecanum, it is best to use a loose and breathable soil mix, such as a combination of peat or coconut coir with granular soils like coal slag, volcanic rock, akadama, or perlite, in a 1:1 ratio. The mix can be adjusted depending on local environmental conditions and personal care habits.
Propagation Methods
Pachyphytum Cuicatecanum is commonly propagated through leaf cuttings, which have a high success rate. In spring or fall, select complete, healthy, and plump leaves, placing them on loose soil. After roots form, bury the roots in the soil and increase the humidity. It is important to note that leaf cuttings require more water than mature plants and are not tolerant of direct sunlight.
The natural growth of side shoots and the formation of clumps in Pachyphytum Cuicatecanum is relatively slow. If a clumping effect is desired, head-cutting can be used to encourage faster growth.