Pachyphytum glutinicaule Moran
Sticky Pachyphytum
Pachyphytum glutinicaule is a little-known Mexican succulent endemic to Jalisco and Zacatecas, notable for secreting a sticky (glutinous) exudate on the stem and leaf bases, from which its specific epithet derives. This unusual trait sets it apart from all other species in the genus and may serve as a defense against herbivores or as a mechanism to trap soil particles.
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© David J. Stang
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Pachyphytum |
| Growth Habit | Open rosette on erect stem up to 20 cm; may branch sparsely from the base. |
| Conservation Status | Not assessed by IUCN; very restricted distribution across two Mexican states, implying potential risk from habitat loss. |
| pH Target | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| Type | Calcareous-sandy, nutrient-poor, with excellent drainage and good root aeration. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Ovate-spatulate leaves 3–5 cm long, grey-green with thin farina; leaf bases with perceptible sticky resinous exudate. Fleshy consistency, entire margin, obtuse apex.
ecoErect stem 10–20 cm, covered in glutinous secretion especially pronounced in lower internodes; prominent helical leaf scars.
ecoLoose raceme inflorescence 20–35 cm; tubular orange-red flowers with thickened sepals; winter to spring flowering (December–April).
ecoThin fibrous root system; the stem exudate may facilitate anchoring to dusty calcareous cliff substrates.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Calcareous-sandy, nutrient-poor, with excellent drainage and good root aeration.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Select a mature leaf; when detaching it you will notice slight stickiness at the base — a characteristic of this species. Gently twist to separate cleanly.
- 2 Allow to callus for 2–3 days in a ventilated spot; the slightly glutinous base seals well on its own.
- 3 Place the leaf on dry mineral substrate without burying.
- 4 Lightly mist every 6–8 days; roots and plantlets will appear in 4–6 weeks.
- 5 Transplant individually with tweezers when plantlets reach 1–2 cm.
- 1 Cut a stem with rosette using sterilized scissors; account for the slight stickiness when handling.
- 2 Remove lower leaves by holding at their base. Clean scissors after cutting to prevent resin build-up.
- 3 Callus the cut for 3–5 days and plant in dry mineral substrate.
- 4 Water for the first time after 7 days; it will be rooted in 3–5 weeks.
Never touch the pruina/farina; handle leaves and stems at their base only. Fingerprints permanently damage the coating.
Touching the leaves with fingers and permanently damaging the pruina.
Every 2–3 years in spring in small terracotta pots with very draining substrate.
Once a month in spring-summer with cactus fertilizer diluted to half dose. No fertilization in autumn-winter.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No published toxicity data; sticky exudate not irritating to human skin under normal conditions.
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"The ecological function of the glutinous exudate has not been formally studied; one hypothesis is that it traps small insects whose decomposition in situ provides nitrogen in the nutrient-poor calcareous substrate — an open research area within Crassulaceae ecology."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.