Description Light/Soil/Water Hardiness The Tylecodon schaeferianus, affectionately known as the "Fairy Tale Plant," is a miniature succulent that looks like it belongs in a fantasy forest. It is a "caudiciform" or pachycaul plant, meaning it develops a thick, swollen, and gnarled base (caudex) with peeling, papery bark. From this ancient-looking trunk, tiny, egg-shaped green leaves emerge, giving it the appearance of a microscopic, weathered tree. This rare gem hails from the arid, rocky regions of Namibia and the Namaqualand in South Africa. It is a desert specialist, having evolved to store water in its woody trunk to survive the harsh, dry winters of its native habitat.The flowering stage of the Fairy Tale Plant adds to its mystique. It produces small, tubular, trumpet-shaped flowers that are usually a pale pink or creamy white with delicate maroon or purple stripes. These blooms appear on thin stalks and provide a soft, elegant contrast to the rugged, "crusty" appearance of the trunk. Bright Indirect Light. It loves light but can be sensitive to intense, direct afternoon sun which may scorch its tiny leaves. Extremely Gritty/Inorganic. Use a mix of pumice, lava rock, and coarse sand. It requires maximum drainage to protect the caudex. Careful & Seasonal. This is a winter grower. Water more regularly in autumn/winter when leaves are present, and keep nearly bone-dry in summer dormancy. 10 to 11. Almost exclusively grown as an indoor specialty plant in temperate regions.
