Silver bracts (Pachyphytum bracteosum)

Silver bracts

Silver bracts is a charming succulent native to Mexico, known for its dazzling, fleshy leaves that resemble silvery gemstones. This delightful plant is a conversation starter, as the leaves have a shimmering, metallic appearance due to a fine powdery coating called farina. Remarkably, this plant can propagate from a single leaf, making it an effortless gift for fellow plant enthusiasts. Attractive to pollinators, silver bracts boasts dainty, bell-shaped flowers in spring, adding a burst of colour to your garden. This compact gem is perfect for container gardening, bringing a touch of sparkle to your windowsill or patio.

Scientific classification

Species

Silver bracts (Pachyphytum bracteosum)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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20 cm

Plant Height

20 cm

Spread

Pink, Blue

Leaf Color

Red

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Silver bracts

Care Guide for Silver bracts

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Silver bracts requires minimal watering, tailored to weather and its state. In hot or dormant conditions, water every 1-2 weeks. Water in the evening during summer. Monitor leaf symptoms and soil moisture to determine water needs, and adjust based on pot type and air permeability.

Fertilize: Silver bracts typically thrives in poor soil conditions, requiring little to no fertilization. A small amount of slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early summer, but avoid fertilizing during dormancy to prevent nutrient damage to growth.

Pruning: Silver bracts requires pruning in early spring to promote compact growth and health. Remove damaged leaves and leggy stems while using clean, sharp tools to reduce stress and infection risk. This practice helps prevent overcrowding and encourages better overall growth.

Propagation: Silver bracts is a succulent with chunky, metallic leaves, propagated mainly by surface sowing. Use a well-draining sandy perlite mix, keep soil moist (but not waterlogged), and provide bright, indirect light for germination. After establishment, pot individually and maintain minimal watering.

Repotting: Silver bracts is a succulent with plump leaves and serves as ground cover. Repot every 2-3 years in spring using a slightly larger container with drainage. Post-repotting, allow silver bracts to rest for a week before light watering to support root establishment and maintain its unique silver hue.

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