Pachyphytum 'Egg Tart' Crested

Pachyphytum 'Egg Tart' Crested is an unusual fasciated form of the cultivated Pachyphytum known as 'Egg Tart'. Instead of developing from a conventional single growing point, the stem broadens into a crest carrying numerous closely spaced growing points, creating dense, sculptural growth that becomes increasingly distinctive as the plant matures.

Unusual crested growth

Cresting, or fasciation, changes the normal growth pattern of the plant. Rather than forming a single symmetrical head, growth develops along an elongated ridge, producing a fan-like or undulating crest. Every plant develops differently, and mature specimens can become increasingly complex as the crest broadens, folds and branches.

Occasional sections may also produce more conventional growth. This is a natural characteristic of crested succulents and can either be retained or selectively pruned according to the shape you prefer.

Plump foliage and changing colour

'Egg Tart' is grown for its thick, fleshy Pachyphytum foliage, with colours capable of changing considerably according to season and growing conditions. Leaves can display soft green, yellow-green and creamy tones, with warmer pink, peach, orange or yellow colouring developing under suitable conditions.

The foliage carries a natural powdery coating of farina that contributes to its soft appearance and helps protect the leaves. As farina is easily disturbed by fingerprints and rubbing, plants are best handled by the pot or stem wherever possible.

About Pachyphytum 'Egg Tart'

'Egg Tart' is a cultivated Pachyphytum whose precise parentage and breeder do not appear to be reliably documented. It is sometimes described in cultivation as a possible hybrid involving Pachyphytum oviferum and another Pachyphytum sold as 'Baby Finger', but we have not found sufficient botanical or horticultural documentation to present that parentage as established fact.

The plant offered here is the crested form of 'Egg Tart'. The origin of this fasciated form also appears to be undocumented, so we describe it according to the cultivar name under which it is established in cultivation rather than attributing the crest to a particular breeder or nursery.

Growing Pachyphytum 'Egg Tart' Crested

Grow in a free-draining succulent mix with plenty of bright light and good airflow. Good light encourages compact growth and stronger seasonal colour, but plants that have been grown under protected conditions should be acclimatised gradually before exposure to intense direct sun, particularly during hot Australian summers.

Water thoroughly when required and allow the growing medium to dry appropriately between waterings. The thick leaves store considerable moisture, so continuously wet conditions should be avoided. Crested plants can develop dense areas where leaves and stems are closely packed, making good airflow particularly useful.

As the crest matures it can be selectively trimmed or shaped if required, although allowing the plant to develop naturally will produce the most individual and sculptural specimens.

Pachyphytum 'Egg Tart' Crested plants for sale shown in 70mm pots. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images. Colours and crest development will vary between individual plants and according to time of year and growing conditions.