Why settle for less and ordinary when you can have the extraordinary. Moonstone is extraordinary; instead of the standard green color with normal-looking leaves, you can now possess a hassle-free plant that is strikingly beautiful, attractive and is unique. It boasts of silvery, chubby leaves that are unique and rare.
The plant has its origin in Mexico and is a priced aesthetic possession due to its succulent nature. The moonstone succulent plant can grow up to 10 cm tall and 30 cm wide; initially, the stem will look upright, but the weight of the leaves will recline it to the ground.
During winter, the plant tends to grow more and will have graceful flowers. During this time, a long floral stalk will grow in the middle of the plant, bear fleshy grey-green sepals, and have red flowers facing downward and having a yellow center.
Does The Moonstone Plant Have Any Other Names?
The Moonstone Plant, also called P. oviferum, is the natural form or state.
Different Types of Moonstone Plants
Breeders have been able to reproduce new and unique varieties, the likes of P. oviferum f. variegatum, which has a characteristic bluish-purple tinge with a yellow variation.
Also, there are other types of Moonstone Plants with characteristic pink, bronze, purple and green. The most popular being the succulent pink moonstone. Other species which carry a resemblance to the Moonstone Plant include the P. bracteosum and P. Garnet Fudge.
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Main Uses of Moonstone Plants
Moonstone Plant is usually used as an exotic indoor and outdoor beauty. Moonstone Plant is also used for visual appeal.
How To Prune Moonstone Plants
The plant is pruned by figure, and this enables the foliage to grow more. Regardless of this, they can strive without pruning.
Best Soil for Moonstone plant
Being a hardy plant that does well in dry soil, the best soil is sandy soil or perlite, or pumice soil. Another alternative to soil is a succulent potting mixture.
How Much Light Do Moonstone Plants Need?
Being a hardy plant, this tells you that this plant does well and requires plenty of sunshine. Moonstone plants will require up to 6 hours of sunlight, whether they are indoors or outside. During the intense summer heat, it’s good to provide shade for outdoor Moonstone plants so as to avoid scorching.
How Often to Water Moonstone Plant
The Moonstone plant is a somewhat unique plant in that it can survive underwatering rather than overwatering; this means this plant can do well with less water than when it has excess water. And during the winter period, when the plant begins its active growth season, it will require more water than usual. But be careful not to overdo it because this may lead to root rot.
In order to notice when the plant requires more water, one can easily do this by observing the lowest leaves for signs of drying, and when you notice that the leaves are dry or appear wilted, then you can start watering them. During watering, it’s advisable that you be careful not to water the leaves to avoid damaging them. Also, water droplets on the leaves will wash away the powdery appearance of the plant, and without this, the plant is prone to exposure to pests and diseases.
Ideal Temperature Conditions for Moonstone Plant
The Moonstone Plant doesn’t tolerate a frost climate well, and a temperature of -6 C will destroy the plant. On the other hand, it can tolerate high temperatures and direct sunlight. This succulent plant can thrive in full or partial sunlight.
Humidity Conditions for Moonstone Plant
Moonstone Plants are generally considered hardy and tough, thus can easily do well in high temperatures but will require a good flow of air and proper humidity to keep it fleshy and plump.
Best Fertilizer for Moonstone Plant
This plant doesn’t require constant feeding; just a little organic fertilizer will go a long way.
How to Propagate Moonstone Plant
The most popular and successful propagation method of succulent plants is leaf cuttings. This method is simple and effective, and you twist the lower leaves, making sure that it doesn’t tear, after which you place them on top of a cacti potting mix in a tray and wet it sparingly. After doing this, you can place it in a well-ventilated room that’s well-lit; after 3-4 weeks, you will observe new roots and leaves sprouting from it.
As long as the set requirements of water and light are provided accordingly, then the Moonstone Plant doesn’t require special attention. However, if you don’t provide these conditions, then the leaves will fall off, and the Moonstone Plant will start being leggy. If you observe this, then it’s advisable to cut it down at the base and propagate the leaves.
Once the plant has flowered, then it’s advisable to report it so that the roots can breathe.
Growth Rate of Moonstone Plant
After propagation, you can expect that in 3-4 weeks to have roots and leaves. After this, the plant will grow to a height of 10 cm and will spread to 30 cm.
Ideal Pot Size for Moonstone Plant
If you are planning to have your plant grow in a pot, then it’s recommendable to select either a clay one or terracotta. These pots should have drainage holes to help in keeping the roots healthy by maintaining proper drainage. Clay pots are also known to be porous, thus allowing the exchange of air and moisture through the sides of the pot. It’s also important to note that when it’s hot, terracotta pots tend to lose moisture to the surroundings faster; thus, one will need to water more frequently.
Repotting Tips for Moonstone Plant
This plant needs to be repotted every few years to allow better flowering and allow the roots to replenish the soil nutrients and breath. Some of the tips to follow include; buy a larger pot but large by a few inches 1 or 2 inches; secondly, rinse off the soil and observe any signs of pests or root rot. You can also prune the roots; this will promote new growth.
FAQs
Are Moonstone Plants Edible?
No. This plant is not edible and should be kept off the reach of toddlers and pets.
Are Moonstone Plants Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
The Moonstone Plant is not toxic to pets if ingested, but it may cause stomach upset, although not severe. But it’s advisable to visit a vet to get your furry friend checked.
Is The Moonstone Plant Poisonous?
No. This plant is entirely harmless, but if ingested in large quantities, it may cause stomach upset.
Do Moonstone Plants Prefer to Grow Indoors or Outside?
The Moonstone Plant can thrive both outside and indoors; as long as the necessary conditions are provided, the plant will thrive.
I hope this piece on Pachyphytum oviferum will help you in growing the best plant and hope it has enlightened you in matters regarding the Moonstone Plant.
Happy Planting.
