Pachypodium Rosulatum var. Gracilius - A (vase included)

$875.00

Pachypodium Rosulatum var. Gracilius - A compact, sculptural succulent from Madagascar, admired for its smooth, swollen caudex that stores water and supports short, spiny branches crowned with glossy green leaves. In spring and summer, it produces brilliant yellow, star-shaped flowers that contrast strikingly with its silver-gray trunk. Adapted to harsh, arid terrain, it thrives in full sun, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering, developing its most striking form under dry, bright conditions. During dormancy, it sheds its leaves and rests until warmth returns. Highly collectible and visually dramatic, this variety is prized for its bonsai-like shape, luminous blooms, and living sculpture aesthetic.

🌞 Light

Requires full sun or very bright light for compact growth and thick caudex formation.
Outdoors: full sun is ideal.
Indoors: place near a south-facing window or use strong grow lights.

💧 Watering

Active growth (spring–summer): Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry.
Dormancy (fall–winter): The plant drops its leaves—stop watering almost completely; water only once every 4–6 weeks to prevent caudex shriveling.
Overwatering is the main cause of rot; always err on the dry side.

🌵 Soil

Prefers very well-draining, mineral-based soil.
Recommended mix:
- 60–70% pumice, coarse sand, or lava rock
- 30–40% cactus mix or gritty organic component
Avoid peat or dense potting soil.

🌡️ Temperature

Ideal range: 75–95°F (24–35°C).
Tolerates heat well but is not frost-hardy — protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

🍃 Fertilization

Feed lightly during active growth with a balanced, low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer every 4–6 weeks.
Do not fertilize during dormancy.

🪴 Container & Repotting

Use a porous clay or terracotta pot with large drainage holes.
Slight root-binding encourages caudex thickening.
Repot every 2–3 years in spring before the new growth season.

✂️ Maintenance

Remove dead leaves during dormancy.
Avoid pruning branches unless shaping is necessary — growth is slow.
Handle carefully; spines are sharp, and the caudex is delicate.

🌱 Propagation

Typically grown from seed, as cuttings rarely root successfully.
Seeds germinate in warm, bright conditions (80–90°F / 27–32°C) with consistent moisture.