Troubleshooting
Succulentum Pachypodium problems — and how to fix them
Succulentum Pachypodium (Pachypodium succulentum) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Tuberous caudex rot in wet conditions
The large underground storage organ is highly vulnerable to rot if the soil stays wet in winter. Always grow in free-draining gritty soil and stop watering when the plant enters its leafless winter dormancy period.
Reluctance to re-sprout after dormancy
The plant can appear dead for several weeks after winter before new shoots emerge. Do not water heavily in an attempt to stimulate growth — wait until new buds are clearly visible, then resume careful watering.
Spider mites in dry indoor conditions
Sustained dry indoor air during the growing season can encourage spider mite infestations, visible as fine webbing and silvery leaf stippling. Improve air circulation, wipe down foliage with a damp cloth, and treat with neem oil or an appropriate miticide.
Prevent succulentum pachypodium problems before they start
Most succulentum pachypodium issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Succulentum Pachypodium problems — FAQ
Why is my succulentum pachypodium tuberous caudex rot in wet conditions?
The large underground storage organ is highly vulnerable to rot if the soil stays wet in winter. Always grow in free-draining gritty soil and stop watering when the plant enters its leafless winter dormancy period.
Why is my succulentum pachypodium reluctance to re-sprout after dormancy?
The plant can appear dead for several weeks after winter before new shoots emerge. Do not water heavily in an attempt to stimulate growth — wait until new buds are clearly visible, then resume careful watering.
Why is my succulentum pachypodium spider mites in dry indoor conditions?
Sustained dry indoor air during the growing season can encourage spider mite infestations, visible as fine webbing and silvery leaf stippling. Improve air circulation, wipe down foliage with a damp cloth, and treat with neem oil or an appropriate miticide.