Echeveria

Appearance

The rosettes of Echeveria are arranged in perfect geometric symmetry, made up of thick, fleshy leaves. Depending on the species, they can display an impressive range of colors: from fresh greens and deep purples to fiery reds and even near-black tones. Some varieties are covered in fine hairs or a powdery, protective coating called farina. Rosettes can span anywhere from 3 to 60 cm in diameter, with some species even forming short stems.

But it’s not just their foliage that fascinates – the blooms are equally stunning, ranging from bright yellow and fiery red to vivid orange and pink. With their striking looks, Echeveria are ideal as indoor plants for any home, thoughtful wedding favors, or as a unique gift for plant lovers.

Origin

The genus was first described in the deserts of Mexico by botanist and illustrator Atanasio Echeverría during a royal expedition through Central America. Today, Echeveria can also be found in Peru, Texas, and scattered across South America in countries like Brazil, Uruguay, and Chile. They thrive in mountainous regions where few other plants can survive.

Care

Echeveria need a bright, sunny spot all year round. A south-facing window indoors or a sunny balcony or patio in summer is ideal. Without enough light, they grow elongated and lose their vibrant colors.

Use a fast-draining, mineral-rich mix such as cactus soil blended with pumice, lava rock, or perlite. Avoid waterlogging at all costs.

Since they store water in their leaves, Echeveria should be watered sparingly. Always let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering easily leads to root or crown rot. Water from the base or directly into the soil, avoiding water pooling in the rosette.

During the growing season (spring to late summer), feed with a highly diluted cactus fertilizer about once every four weeks. Do not fertilize during winter dormancy.

From May to September, Echeveria can be kept outdoors, provided they are slowly acclimated to direct sunlight. Most species cannot tolerate temperatures below 5–7 °C (41–45 °F), so bring them indoors in autumn. For overwintering, a bright, cool spot (10–15 °C / 50–59 °F) is ideal, with very little water.

Some species can be prone to mealybugs, scale insects, or thrips.

Propagation

Echeveria are easy to propagate from leaf cuttings, offsets (pups), or stem cuttings. Growing them from seed is a rewarding challenge for patient succulent enthusiasts. With some experience, hybridizing your own plants is also possible.

Popular Species

A favorite among collectors, ‘Lola’ features alabaster-colored, geometric rosettes. It’s a hybrid between Echeveria lilacina and Echeveria derenbergii. Plants can reach up to 15 cm tall and produce peach-colored, bell-shaped flowers.

Known as the “Mexican Snowball”, Echeveria elegans forms compact rosettes of green leaves that may develop reddish tips when exposed to plenty of light.

With its rich red coloring that shifts depending on the season and sunlight, ‘Romeo’ is a real showstopper. Its pink flowers on long, orange stalks add an extra burst of color.