The “Little Jewel” succulent (Pachyphytum compactum) is known for its distinctive appearance. Its compact rosettes feature thick, fleshy leaves, often silvery-blue or lavender with reddish tips. These leaves have a unique faceted, geometric quality, resembling small gemstones. A powdery coating, called farina, helps the plant retain moisture.
Little Jewel Succulent Care
Light Requirements
Little Jewel succulents thrive in bright light, ideally receiving several hours of unfiltered sunlight daily. This exposure enhances their vibrant coloration. Insufficient light causes etiolation, leading to stretched, leggy stems and pale, less compact leaves. Conversely, direct, intense midday sun, especially in hot weather, can scorch leaves, resulting in brown or bleached spots.
Watering Practices
Proper watering uses the “soak and dry” method, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. This prevents root rot. Thoroughly drench the soil until water drains from the pot’s bottom, ensuring the entire root ball receives moisture. Watering frequency varies seasonally; during spring and summer, water every two to three weeks. Winter dormancy requires significantly reduced watering.
Soil Mix
Well-draining soil is essential for Little Jewel succulents to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal. For homemade mixes, combine potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite or pumice for aeration and drainage. The soil pH should be between 6 and 7.5 for optimal nutrient uptake.
Temperature and Humidity
Little Jewel succulents prefer moderate temperatures, thriving between 60°F and 85°F (15-29°C). They are not frost-tolerant; protect them from temperatures below freezing, as exposure below 20°F (-6°C) can be fatal. In cooler climates, grow them in containers to move indoors during cold periods. These succulents tolerate average household humidity and do not require additional humidity.
Fertilization
Fertilize Little Jewel succulents infrequently and with caution. During their active growing season (spring and summer), apply a diluted low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer once a month or every two to three months. Over-fertilization harms the plant, leading to leggy growth. Newly repotted plants do not require fertilizer for six to eight weeks.
Propagating Little Jewel Succulents
Little Jewel succulents propagate readily, with leaf propagation being an effective method. Gently twist a healthy, mature leaf from the main plant, ensuring a clean break at the stem. After removal, allow the leaf to dry for several days until a callus forms over the detached end; this prevents rot.
Once calloused, place the leaf on top of well-draining succulent soil. Keep the soil lightly moist by misting occasionally.
Tiny roots will emerge from the calloused end, followed by a small rosette. New plantlets form within a few weeks to a couple of months. Once the new plant has sufficient roots and a small rosette, carefully transplant it into its own pot.
Repotting Little Jewel Succulents
Repot Little Jewel succulents every two to three years, or when the plant outgrows its container. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes, plant instability, or degrading soil. Spring or early fall are suitable times, ideally before peak growing season.
Choose a new pot only slightly larger than the previous one, ensuring adequate drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, handling it by the root ball. Remove excess old soil and prune any dead or damaged roots. Place the plant in the new pot with fresh, well-draining succulent soil, ensuring it is at the same depth as before.
Addressing Common Little Jewel Succulent Issues
Common issues for Little Jewel succulents often stem from improper care. Overwatering leads to soft, yellowing, translucent, or mushy leaves, and can cause root rot. If these signs appear, reduce watering and inspect roots for decay. Underwatering causes leaves to shrivel or wrinkle, indicating the plant needs water.
Insufficient light causes etiolation, where the plant stretches, becomes leggy, with increased space between leaves. Move the plant to a brighter location with more indirect sunlight to reverse etiolation.
Common pests include mealybugs, appearing as small, white, cottony masses in leaf axils or on stems. Remove them by dabbing with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol, which dissolves their waxy coating. Severe infestations may require insecticidal soap or thorough rinsing.