If you enjoy growing succulents, then Echeveria pallida may be just the plant for you. This attractive little plant isn’t finicky so long as you provide suitable growing conditions. Read on for more information on growing Argentine echeveria plants.

Echeveria Pallida Plant Info

Commonly called Argentine echeveria (Echeveria pallida), this favorite succulent is native to Mexico. It’s described as having pale lime green, spoon-shaped leaves in a single rosette form. These leaves sometimes appear translucent, with edges that turn red with proper lighting.

Growing Argentine echeveria is similar to growing others in this family. It cannot take winter cold, so if you live in a cool climate, you’ll want to grow this plant in a container.

Locate this plant in a bright location, gradually adjusting to full morning sun, if desired. Try to avoid the hot afternoon rays in summer with this plant, as leaf edges may burn and spoil the appearance.

Plant into a well-draining, gritty cactus mix. Echeveria in sunny locations need more summer water than many succulents. You’ll want this water to drain off the roots, so make sure your soil drains quickly. Let the soil dry completely before watering again.

Argentine Echeveria Plant Care

As summer growers, echeveria succulent plants can truly enlarge during the season. Argentine echeveria is said to be a moderate grower. There are a couple of quirks to know in order to keep your plant healthy.

Don’t let water stay in the rosettes of the plant. Argentine echeveria is slow to put out offsets, but when it does, they may be located throughout the plant. Try to avoid these when watering.

Also, remove bottom leaves as they die off. Echeverias are susceptible to pests, including the dreaded mealybug. Dead leaf litter in the pot may encourage them, so keep the soil clear.

Repot if needed during summer.

Echeveria pallida plant info says the plant may grow tall, hovering above the container on its stem. If this happens with your plant, you may want to cut it back and replant to keep it shorter. Cut a few inches (8 cm.) down the stem with sharp pruners. Remember to let the stem callous over for a few days before replanting it. (Leave the original stem growing in its container and keep it watered.)

Treat the stem end with rooting hormone, or cinnamon, and plant into dry, fast draining soil. Withhold water for at least a week, longer if possible. This allows the stem to fully recover and roots to begin sprouting. You’re likely to see babies sprouting on it in a few months.

Withhold water during the winter.

Feed the Argentine echeveria a time or two during summer. Compost tea is a gentle, organic way to feed these beautiful plants. You may also top dress with compost or worm castings. If these products are not available, feed with a weakened mix of houseplant fertilizer, making sure to water before feeding.

Echeveria are some of the easiest succulents to grow, and the Perle von Nurnberg plant is one of the prettiest examples of the group. You won't miss flowers when you grow Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg.’ The soft, lilac and pearlescent tones of the rosettes are as sweet as roses and will beautify a rockery, container garden, or pathway. Read further for some comprehensive Perle von Nurnberg info.

Perle von Nurnberg Info

If you are searching for an uncomplaining plant with cherubic appeal and beautiful form and color, look no further than Perle von Nurnberg Echeveria. This little succulent produces pups and will eventually grow as big as a dinner plate with good light and care. Warm region gardeners can add this plant to their landscape, while the rest of us should enjoy them in the summer and bring them indoors for winter. 

The Perle von Nurnberg succulent is native to Mexico. This Echeveria is said to be a cross between E. gibbiflora and E. elegans by Richard Graessner in Germany around 1930. It has dense rosettes with pointed, thickened leaves in grayish lavender tipped in blush pink. The pastel palette is one of nature's phenomenal tricks, and as appealing as any flower.

Each leaf is dusted with a fine, white powder, adding to the appeal. These little guys grow up to 10 inches (25.5 cm.) tall and 8 inches (20.5 cm.) wide. Each small plant will send up one foot (30.5 cm.) long, reddish stems with spikes of beautiful, coral, bell-like flowers. The Perle von Nurnberg plant will produce smaller rosettes, or offsets, which can be divided away from the parent plant to create new plants.

Growing Perle von Nurnberg Echeveria

Echeveria prefer full to partial sun in well-draining soil and grow well outdoors in USDA zones 9 to 11. In cooler regions, grow them in containers and set them out for summer, but bring them indoors to a bright location for winter.

They are remarkably unbothered by pests or disease, but boggy soil will sound the death knell for these xeriscape plants. Once established, the plants rarely need watering and should be kept dry in winter if grown as houseplants.

To improve appearance, remove spent flower stems and old rosettes that are past their prime.

Propagation of Perle von Nurnberg Succulent

Separate offsets in spring and every few years replant the rosettes, removing the oldest for a better appearance. Any time you are repotting or removing the plants, make sure the soil is dry before they are disturbed.

In addition to separating the offset, these plants propagate easily from seed or leaf cuttings. Seeded plants will take years to approach mature size. Take leaf cuttings in spring or early summer. Prepare a container with succulent or cacti soil that has been lightly moistened. Place the leaf on the surface of the soil and cover the entire container with a clear, plastic bag. Once a new plant sprouts from the leaf, remove the cover.

Succulents are varied and come in a lot of different shapes and colors. What they all have in common are the fleshy leaves and the need for a dry, warm environment. A Topsy Turvy plant is a stunning type of echeveria, one large group of succulents, that is easy to grow and adds visual interest to desert beds and indoor containers.

About Topsy Turvy Succulents

The Topsy Turvy plant is a cultivar of Echeveria runyonii that has won awards and is simple to grow, even for beginner gardeners. Topsy Turvy forms rosettes of leaves that grow up to between 8 and 12 inches (20.5 and 30.5 cm.) in height and width. The leaves are a silvery green color, and they grow with a lengthwise fold that brings the edges downward. In the other direction, the leaves curl upward and toward the center of the rosette. In summer or fall, the plant will bloom, producing delicate orange and yellow flowers on a tall inflorescence. Like other types of echeveria, Topsy Turvy is a great choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers. It grows outdoors only in very warm climates, generally zones 9 through 11. In colder climates, you can grow this plant in a container and either keep it indoors or move it outside in warmer months.

Topsy Turvy Echeveria Care

Growing a Topsy Turvy Echeveria is pretty straightforward and easy. With the right start and conditions, it will need very little attention or maintenance. Partial to full sun, and soil that is coarse or sandy and that drains very well are essential. Once you have your Topsy Turvy in the ground or a container, water it whenever the soil dries out completely, which won’t be that often. This is only necessary during the growing season. In the winter, you can water it even less. The bottom leaves will die and brown as Topsy Turvy grows, so just pull these off to keep the plant healthy and attractive. There are not many diseases that attack echeveria, so the most important thing to watch out for is moisture. This is a desert plant that needs to stay mostly dry with only occasional watering.

Succulents are enjoying immense popularity as party favors, particularly as wedding take away gifts from the bride and groom. If you have been to a wedding lately you may have come away with an Echeveria ‘Arctic Ice’ succulent, but how do you care for your Arctic Ice echeveria?

What is an Arctic Ice Echeveria?

Succulents are the perfect starter plant for the novice gardener in that they require minimal care plus they come in a dazzling array of shapes, sizes, and colors. Succulent gardens are all the rage and for good reason. Echeveria is a variety of succulent plant of which there are actually around 150 cultivated types and are native from Texas to Central America. Echeveria ‘Arctic Ice’ is actually a hybrid produced by Altman Plants. All echeveria form thick, fleshy leaved rosettes and come in a variety of hues. Arctic Ice succulents, as the name suggests, have leaves that are either light blue or pastel green, reminiscent of arctic ice. This succulent blooms in spring and summer.

Arctic Ice Echeveria Care

Echeveria succulents are slow growers that don’t usually grow beyond 12 inches (31 cm.) high and wide. Like other succulents, Arctic Ice prefers desert-like conditions but tolerates short periods of moisture as long as they are allowed to dry out prior to watering. Arctic Ice is not tolerant of shade or frost and should be grown in full sun with well-draining soil. They are hardy to USDA zone 10. In temperate climates, this succulent tends to lose its lower leaves during winter months and become rather leggy. If growing Arctic Ice succulents in a container, choose an unglazed clay pot that will allow water to evaporate. Water thoroughly and deeply when the soil is dry to the touch. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Mulch around the plant with sand or gravel to retard weeds and conserve moisture. If the plant is potted and you live in a cooler region, overwinter the plant indoors to prevent frost damage. Frost damage on echeveria results in scarring of the leaves or even death. Pinch off any damaged or dead leaves as needed.

Echeveria ‘Doris Taylor,’ also called the woolly rose plant, is a favorite of many collectors. If you’re not familiar with this plant, you may ask what is a woolly rose succulent? Keep reading to learn more about this interesting succulent plant.

Doris Taylor Succulent Info

Doris Taylor is an attractive pale green succulent plant. The leaf tips of this echeveria are sometimes dark and leaves are always quite fuzzy. It has a charming rosette shape reaching 7 to 8 inches (18-20 cm.) around and just 3 to 5 inches (7.6-13 cm.) tall. Try growing a woolly rose in a white container to best display its attractive, diminutive persona.

As with most fuzzy leafed plants, little water is needed and leaves propagate more slowly than smooth leaved varieties.

Woolly Rose Plant Care

When growing a woolly rose indoors, place it where it gets full morning sun or at the least bright light. Outside, morning sun may be filtered or dappled, but best performance of this plant results from a few hours daily of direct sun. As always, slowly acclimate to a full sun situation. Sources indicate the plant can maintain in shade. Keep Doris Taylor in afternoon shade in the hottest days of summer.

More water is needed during the growing season; however, waterings should still be infrequent. Water even less in winter while the plant is dormant. Doris Taylor succulent info advises growing this specimen in a mix of half potting soil and half coarse sand. Whatever potting mix you plant it into, water should quickly drain past the roots and exit the container.

Fertilize in spring and summer with diluted cactus and succulent food for warm weather growth.

Dark leaf tips appear from sunlight and low water conditions. Showy orange blooms may appear on the contented specimen in late spring and summer on 8- to 10-inch (20-25 cm.) stems. Trim stems when flowering is finished.

If you notice aphids swarming the new flower growth, as they sometimes do, move the plant from the sun and treat with 50 to 70 percent alcohol. Try to avoid getting alcohol on the foliage of the plant below. The best way to do this is to tilt the container and then spray the bloom stalks and buds. Alcohol mix may be diluted. A stream of water may also work for dislodging these pests.

You may collect seeds from the faded blooms, but since this plant is a hybrid, seeds don’t come back true to the parent. A cross between Echeveria setosa and E. pulvinata, it might be interesting to see what, if anything, develops from the seeds. Propagate this plant from cuttings for a replica of the parent.

Echeveria is a genus of stonecrop plants with a huge variety of species and cultivars, many of which are very popular in succulent gardens and collections. The plants are known for their relatively compact size, rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves, and occasional showy flower stalks. One beautiful and easy-care variety is Echeveria ‘Irish Mint,’ a bright green drought-tolerant specimen. Keep reading to learn more about growing an Irish Mint echeveria plant.

Irish Mint Echeveria Info

What is an Irish Mint succulent? An echeveria cultivar, Irish Mint is the resulting offspring of Echeveria derenbergii and Echeveria runyonii ‘Topsy Turvy.’ The plant can be identified by its bright mint green leaves that have a distinct tubular shape and grow in an upswept pattern. It tends to grow to about 6 inches (15 cm.) in height. Like most echeveria plants, it will readily produce pups that can be separated and started as their own plants. It will sometimes produce showy orange flowers that are known to attract hummingbirds if the plants are kept outdoors.

Growing an Irish Mint Echeveria Succulent

Irish Mint plants, like many echeverias, are desert dwellers and will tolerate drought conditions very well. Their roots are sensitive to rot, and can become waterlogged easily. Because of this, you should only grow Irish Mint plants in extremely porous, well-draining potting media. Their soil should be allowed to dry out to the touch in between waterings, but when it comes, irrigation should be deep and thorough. While these plants can tolerate some shade, they will start to stretch out and become leggy. They do best with bright light, good airflow, infrequent deep waterings, and regular feedings. This will ensure good, compact rosette growth and impressive golden orange blooms. They do not do well with extreme heat or below freezing temperatures, making them good candidates for houseplant life on a brightly lit windowsill indoors.

The Ramillette echeveria plant is also called Mexican hens and chicks, but don’t be misled. These aren't your everyday hardy hens and chicks plants. These plants are only hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11 for year-round outdoor planting and growing. Keep reading to learn more about caring for a Ramillette echeveria plant.

Echeveria ‘Ramillette’ Info

Echeveria ‘Ramillette’ info indicates this is one of the hybrids that readily produce offsets. Ramillette succulents have the traditional echeveria rosette and pointy leaves with apple green color, tipped in red. Colors become more pronounced with bright sun and cooler temperatures. Summer and fall flowers are orange, tipped with shades of yellow. You might grow them in containers, dig them in fall from ground beds, or expect to replace them next spring. If you have the capability of protecting them during winter, such as with row covers, expect growth to resume in spring. While this variety must be protected from frost, it does enjoy the cooler temps of autumn before frost and freeze arrive. Take advantage of this short time frame to show it off outside. Before you bring your outdoor succulents inside, check for pests and refresh the soil. Treat for pests, if needed, with 50% to 70% alcohol or horticulture soap. Move them out of the sun before treating.

How to Grow an Echeveria ‘Ramillette’

Learning how to grow an Echeveria ‘Ramillette’ is simple, if you follow a few basic steps:

• Plant in a porous, sharp-draining soil.
• Limit watering.
• Provide appropriate lighting.
• Fertilize lightly, as needed.
• Remove dying leaves on the bottom.

Caring for Ramillette echeverias includes finding a sunny spot indoors for the colder months. You may also allow or force dormancy by placing them in a low-light situation in a cool area. When outdoor temperatures reach a nighttime high in the upper 40's F. (4 C.) next spring, begin acclimating the plants to their outdoor locations. Start with a couple hours of dappled morning sun and gradually increase from there. Try to keep Ramillette echeveria in a full morning sun spot.

Another of the most commonly owned succulents, the popular Echeveria ‘Lola’ plant is a beautiful, rosette that may be surrounded by pups. Offsets, known as pups or babies, produce readily on this grayish-blue leafed favorite. Growing Lola echeveria is simple too.

Echeveria ‘Lola’ Info

Lola echeveria has pale gray-blue leaves, often tinged in pink. Flowers, blooming in summer, are peach or salmon shades. Find a Lola succulent at your local nursery or order from a reputable online site. Avoid ordering from individuals without credentials. Many are ripped off after being enticed by an inexpensive price. You want to start off with a healthy and pest-free plant for the best succulent growing experience.

Growing Lola Echeveria

Choose an appropriate container for your new Lola, one with drainage holes so that you can water correctly. The occasional watering should drench the plant until water comes out the bottom. Amended, well-draining soil encourages the water to move through and not remain on the roots. You can amend cactus and succulent soil with coarse sand, pumice, coir, or perlite. Or you can make your own soil. More succulents are lost to overwatering and soil holding too much water than any other reason, so it is worthwhile to get the soil mixture right from the beginning. Proper soil and sunlight, along with limited water ensure a happy specimen. Once potted, find a sunny spot to locate your echeveria plant, but wait before putting it in full sun. Young plants have not likely yet been exposed to full sun and may not have even been in the sun. Where was it growing when you bought it? For an online purchase, assume it was in a greenhouse with indirect light and, if you bought it at a garden center, how much sun did it get there? Acclimate to full morning sun, starting with a couple hours per day and increasing by half an hour each week. When growing indoors, Echeveria ‘Lola’ info says a south window is best. If no long-term light is available from your windows, install a grow light. When growing echeveria outside, slowly adjust it to full morning sun. Avoid afternoon sun, especially in summer, as leaves may sunburn. Leaves remain on the plant for a long period, you don’t want them marred by scalded spots. Care for a Lola echeveria includes keeping water from the rosettes and removing dead leaves from the bottom. Water at the soil level to avoid splashing the leaves. If water accidentally gets into the rosette, use a paper towel or cotton ball to remove it before damage happens. A few dying leaves on the bottom of your echeveria is normal. Remove them and keep the soil free of debris to avoid pests and diseases.

Somewhat unusual and possibly hard to find, the Peacock echeveria is a fast-growing succulent plant with rosettes up to 6 inches (15 cm.) across. It is unusual for a succulent to report fast growth. Leaves of the rosette are streaked a silvery-blue with pink to red tips and are slightly thinner than other echeveria plants. Let’s learn more about growing a Peacock echeveria succulent.

Peacock Echeveria Info

Found under the names Cotyledon peacockii or Echeveria desmetiana ‘Peacockii,’ this plant is advertised as rare. Some sell seeds online at the same price as most sell the plants, under $5. I personally have never grown a succulent from a seed but, as a horticulturist, I assume it is possible. All my young succulents are started from leaves or cuttings. Think it through before making any purchase online and always seek out reputable suppliers. The plant grows well in the ground year-round where temperatures allow and will soon become a matted groundcover, shooting up 10 inch (25 cm.) blooms. Happy Peacock echeverias bloom in summer on stalks with bell-shaped flowers that are a pinkish orange.

Growing Peacock Echeveria Plants

Peacock echeveria info indicates growing in partial sun or filtered shade is preferred, as it is easy to provide these delicate leaves with too much sun. It is also said to be heat tolerant when kept in these conditions. Growing Peacock echeverias need little water in spring and summer and even less in winter. If you must bring them indoors in winter, avoid drafts or vents that may blast warm air onto the plant. You may also put them in a cool location, but above freezing, to force them into dormancy. Even less water is needed in this situation. When growing Peacock echeveria in a container, use one with drainage holes. Plant in fast-draining soil, possibly a cactus mix amended with coarse sand or pumice. Echeveria can suffer quickly from soil that remains moist. Grow this plant alone in a container or with other succulent plants that have similar growing requirements – watch chain plant (Crassula muscosa or Crassula lycopodioides) or elephant bush (Portulacaria afra), both grow well in partially shaded conditions. Appropriate care of Peacock echeveria includes removing dead bottom leaves as new growth shoots from the top. Fertilize these plants in spring if they do not appear in top condition. Weakened houseplant fertilizer or compost tea is recommended.

Allegra succulents, with bluish-green leaves and showy flowers, are some of the most sought-after echeverias. Available on several online succulent sites, you may find this plant in local nurseries that sell succulents as well. Described as having a ruffled appearance, the rosettes of this plant are bigger than those of some echeveria varieties.

Allegra Echeveria Growing Info

Learning about Echeveria ‘Allegra’ before growing it can help keep your plant happy and healthy. As with other succulent specimens, grow this plant in a gritty, well-draining soil. Amend your potting soil or make your own. It is simple, there are many instructions online and more information here. Allegra echeveria growing in containers and those planted in the ground need excellent drainage so water does not remain on the roots. Unlike traditional container plants, echeveria should be allowed to dry out completely before watering again. They do not need soil that retains water. Those of us accustomed to growing houseplants other than succulents must re-learn watering techniques for success when growing these plants, as they store water in their leaves. They can sometimes get the water they need just from high humidity. Always doublecheck the soil and the appearance of the echeveria ‘Allegra’ plant leaves before adding more water. Wrinkled, thinning leaves sometimes indicate it is time to water. Check the soil to make sure it is dry. When possible, irrigate with rainwater only. If you move your plants inside during winter, consider the conditions there. If you use heat and plants are hot and dry, they may need more water than when they were outside. Normally, we water succulents less in winter, but each situation will vary. As you get to know your plant, you’ll learn more about when to water it. It is always best to drench plants until water comes out of the drainage holes. Care of Allegra echeveria includes the right lighting, which is full morning sun. Afternoon sun in spring or autumn may be satisfactory for echeverias, but summer’s heat often damages the plant. Leaves can scald from sun that is too hot. Leaves remain on this plant for an extended time and don’t give the best appearance when scarred. Roots may be damaged from temperatures and sunshine that is too hot. Provide at least partial or dappled afternoon shade for echeverias in summer, especially those growing in the ground. Keep your Allegra succulents in top shape with a spring-time feeding. Most succulent soil mixes are not rich in nutrients. Give your plants a boost with a weak mix of a low nitrogen fertilizer. Most recommend using it at about one-quarter strength. You may also feed with a weak compost tea. This keeps plants healthy and better able to resist pests and disease.

Echeveria ‘Black Prince’ is a favorite succulent plant, especially of those who like the dark purple look of the leaves, which are so deep they appear black. Those looking to add something a little different to the landscape or container gardens will certainly enjoy this easy-care plant.

About Echeveria ‘Black Prince’

Leaves will first be green and darken as they mature. The center of the plant is usually green. A low grower, the Black Prince plant has a rosette that can reach 3 inches (8 cm.) across. It is attractive in mixed containers or planted together with a few of the same type. Black Prince succulent produces offsets, what we often call babies, that can fill your container and sometimes even spill over the sides. Offsets of the growing Black Prince echeveria grow from the bottom, growing upward against the mother plant. You may remove these babies to grow in other containers if you’d like. Plant the Black Prince plant on a mound of soil or in a container filled to the top for the best view of emerging offsets. The mature, happily growing plant blooms dark red flowers in late autumn to winter.

Growing Black Prince Echeveria

Black Prince echeveria care includes potting in proper soil, finding the right location, and limiting water. Never let water remain in the rosette of this plant. It can cause rot or fungal disease. Actually, with this echeveria and other succulents, it is best to water at the soil level, keeping the leaves fairly dry. Water sparingly, but provide more water in spring and summer. Let soil dry out between waterings. Cut back to less water in winter, sometimes once a month is appropriate. Black Prince echeveria care includes growing the specimen in a fast-draining succulent mixture, amended with coarse sand, pumice, or other additions normally used in a succulent soil mix. Locate your plant in a sunny spot. Full morning sun is best, but some afternoon sun fills the plant’s needs. Limit afternoon sun in summer, as it may harm leaves and roots in the hottest locations. This is easier when the plant is in a container. If growing in the ground, plant in an area that gets afternoon shade. As the plant grows, bottom leaves will occasionally shrivel. This is normal and they should be removed. Keep all containers free of leaves and debris that encourage pests. Keep an eye on Black Prince for signs of mealybugs, the waxy white patches that may appear on leaf axils or other parts of the plant. If you see ants around your plants, take precautions. These are sometimes a sign of other pests, like aphids, and have the potential for creating honeydew.

It is a popular and considerate idea to gift wedding guests with a small token of appreciation for their attendance. One of the hottest gift ideas of late has been a small potted succulent. The ideal succulents for this purpose are Chroma echeveria plants. It might even be nice to include a small card with a description of what an Echeveria ‘Chroma’ is, growing Chroma echeveria and succulent care for your guests to take home with them.

What is Echeveria ‘Chroma’?

Chroma echeveria plants are hybrid succulents created in California. They are comprised of a small rosette of up to 3 inches (8 cm.) across, which makes them the perfect size for a take-away gift. Their diminutive size isn’t their only selling point; they also have lovely shiny, deep rose to maroon foliage that can complement the bridal party’s colors.

Echeveria ‘Chroma’ Info

From the Crassulaceae family, Chroma succulents are only cold hardy to 20 to 30 degrees F. (-7 to -1 C.), which means they can be successfully grown in USDA zones 9 through 11 outside. All other zones should grow Chroma as a houseplant. The parent plant, Echeveria, is among one of the most colorful of the succulents. It can grow quite large with thick, brightly hued leaves. Hailing from Mexico and Central America, echeveria blooms with yellow, orange, red, or pink bell-shaped blossoms on long stems.

Chroma Succulent Care

Succulents are easy to grow as long as you don’t overwater them. Remember that succulents hold water in their thick fleshy leaves. Do not water them until the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to rot of both leaves and roots. When growing Chroma echeveria, use a succulent/cactus potting soil that is porous and well-draining. Be sure that the container has adequate drainage holes. Situate the succulent in an area with plenty of light. As the lower leaves dies back, be sure to remove them, as they can be havens for pests such as mealybugs. When the plant outgrows its pot, allow the soil to dry out and then gently remove the succulent. Remove any rotted or dead roots and leaves. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Then repot Chroma in a larger pot, spreading the roots out as you backfill with soil. Let the succulent stay dry for about a week and acclimate, then water it lightly as usual.

Just because you want a plant that is tough doesn’t mean you should settle for one that is less than gorgeous. One that fits into the resilient and striking category is Echeveria. This genus of easy-care succulents has attractive rosette-shaped foliage. If this sounds promising, read on for more echeveria plant information, in particular growing Echeveria parva.

Echeveria Plant Information

Echeveria parva succulents are great little garden survivors. They tolerate heat, drought and also cold snaps, yet are also lovely, with their red-edged rosettes and dramatic flower stalks. According to echeveria plant information, the ‘parva’ species is difficult to find in commerce, but it is worth the effort. Parva offers unique coloring, with icy blue-green rosettes trimmed in blood red accents. ‘Parva’ means dwarf in Latin, so it makes sense that Echeveria parva succulents are a small variety. However, the rosettes are extremely dense, to the extent that they are compared to cabbages. The succulents also delight with golden, bell-shaped flowers on long stems. They are popular with both bees and hummingbirds.

Growing Echeveria Parva

If you want to start growing these succulents outdoors, you’ll have to live in a fairly warm area. Echeveria parva plants are cold hardy only in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11. On the other hand, it’s easy to grow succulents in containers in any region. You just have to remember to bring them into a protected area in winter. Echeveria parva care starts with planting these lovely rosettes in a full sun location. If you are doing container plants, place them outside in summer in a sunny spot. Regular irrigation is an important part of care for echeveria parva plants. Water regularly but not too often during the growing season. As winter approaches, cut down on irrigation. The very worst thing in terms of Echeveria parva care is giving your succulents wet feet in winter. If you love your echeveria succulents, you may long for more. This is not a problem. The plants tend to clump and form pups. These can be removed and replanted to start a new plant. Echeveria propagates easily from cuttings too.

Succulent fans rejoice. The little Echeveria minima plants will have you hopping up and down with their absolute cuteness. What is a minima plant? This miniature of the genus is native to Mexico and has sweet rosettes and blush tinged leaves. Best of all, minima succulent care is so simple that even a novice gardener can succeed with ease.

Echeveria Minima Information

The wide variety of succulent forms, sizes, and colors ensures the group are a collector's dream. Echeveria minima plants are perfect either alone in containers or as part of a group of showy succulents. These plants are not cold hardy but growing Echeveria minima outdoors during the spring and summer will give your patio a desert feel. At just 3 to 5 inches (8-13 cm.) tall, these succulents fit into almost any garden scheme. They are hardy to United States Department of Agriculture zones 9 to 11 but make great houseplants. The chubby leaves of the rosette are bluish in color but become tipped with coral-pink in full sun. In spring they produce bell-shaped flowers held above the plant in hues of peach and orange. As the plants mature, they develop more tiny rosettes, culminating in a cluster of flowery form. Combine them with aloe, jade, hens and chicks, sedum, or even a paddle plant as a centerpiece.

Growing Echeveria Minima

Echeveria needs well-draining, slightly gritty soil. Overwatering is the kiss of death to these desert dwellers, which store moisture in their leaves. The smaller rosettes, or offsets, may be divided away from the parent plant. Allow the end to callus for several days before inserting the base into sand or cactus soil. Avoid watering the new rosette for a couple of weeks as it sends out roots. This succulent can grow in full sun but avoid the harshest rays such as those in a southern-facing window. Echeveria minima will even thrive in partial shade but flowering may suffer.

Minima Succulent Care

Water infrequently but deeply and halve irrigation in winter during the dormant period. Make sure containers have excellent drainage holes to prevent rot and root damage. Roots are shallow, so these plants perform well in shallow dishes which also help prevent soggy soil. Use cactus mixture or make your own out of half sand and half potting soil. Feed with diluted cactus fertilizer every two weeks during the growth period. Echeveria don't mind overcrowding but repot when rosettes are crowded and threaten to spill out of their container. Watch for soil gnats, mealybugs, and other pests and treat as necessary with horticultural soap.

Also known as Mexican hen and chicks, Black Knight echeveria is an attractive succulent plant with rosettes of fleshy, pointy, blackish purple leaves. Interested in growing Black Knight plants in your garden? It’s relatively easy as long as you follow a few basic rules. This article can help with that.

About Black Knight Echeveria

Echeveria plants abound in variety, and their ease of care makes them popular succulent plants to grow. The new growth in the center of Black Knight rosettes provides a bright green contrast to the dark outer leaves. In late summer and fall, Black Knight succulents produce colorful, coral-red blooms atop slender, arching stalks. As an added benefit, deer and bunnies tend to steer clear of Black Knight plants. Native to South and Central America, Black Knight echeveria is suitable for growing in the warm climates of USDA plant hardiness zones 9 or above. The plant won’t tolerate frost, but you can grow Black Knight echeveria indoors, or grow them in pots outdoors and bring them inside before the temperature drops in fall.

Growing Echeveria Black Knight Plants

Outdoors, Black Knight plants prefer poor to average soil. Indoors, you plant Black Knight in a container filled with cactus potting mix or a mixture of regular potting mix and sand or perlite. Black Knight succulents prefer full sunlight, but a little afternoon shade is a good idea if you live in a hot climate. Intense afternoon sunlight may be too intense. Indoors, echeveria Black Knight needs a sunny window, but no direct sunlight during hot afternoons. Water the soil or potting mix and never let water sit in the rosettes. Excessive moisture on the foliage can invite rot and other fungal diseases. Water indoor Black Knight succulents deeply until water trickles through the drainage hole, then don’t water again until the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to pour extra water out of the drainage saucer. Cut back on watering if the leaves look shriveled or wilted, or if the plants are dropping leaves. Decrease watering during the winter months. Echeveria Black Knight plants don’t require a lot of fertilizer and too much can burn the leaves. Provide a light dose of a slow-release fertilizer in spring or apply a very weak solution of water-soluble fertilizer occasionally throughout spring and summer. Remove lower leaves from outdoor Black Knight plants as the plant matures. Older, lower leaves may harbor aphids and other pests. If you bring Black Knight succulents indoors in autumn, return them to the outdoors gradually in spring, beginning in light shade and slowly moving them into the sunlight. Drastic changes in temperature and sunlight create a difficult adjustment period.

Echeveria is a small, rosette-type succulent plant. With its unique blue-green pastel color, it’s easy to see why the variety Echeveria derenbergii is a long-time favorite of succulent plant collectors and hobbyist gardeners. Keep reading to learn more about growing and caring for this “painted lady” plant.

About Painted Lady Echeveria

Also known as Painted Lady, due to its reddish leaf tips, this native Mexican plant dazzles with showy yellow-orange blooms each spring. Since these echeveria plants remain relatively small, usually growing to no more than 4 inches (10 cm.) in height, the Painted Lady succulent is perfect for container culture.

Echeveria Plant Care

Echeveria plants require warm climates to thrive. Grown outdoors in USDA zone 9 through 11, cultivation in pots or planters is often the best and most common planting option for gardeners living within zones that experience colder temperatures. Some growers may even choose to grow succulent containers outdoors during the summer months and move the plants back indoors to overwinter when cold weather and frost threatens. To plant, simply fill the containers with well-draining soil. Since good drainage is an absolute necessity, it is best to use soil mixes specifically formulated for succulent growth. These mixes are often available at home improvement stores or local nurseries. By nature, the Painted Lady succulent is drought tolerant and is quite adaptable in terms of how much sunlight is necessary. However, plants still require frequent watering during periods of active growth. Be careful to avoid directly watering the rosette of the plant, as this can lead to rot and other diseases. When growing conditions are less than ideal, plants may become dormant. Dormant plants require even less watering and fertilization until new growth resumes. Like many succulent plants, echeveria is known to produce numerous smaller offsets from the parent plant. These offsets can be removed and placed into their own containers as a means of propagation. New plants can also be rooted through stem cuttings and by rooting succulent leaves. Always maintain good sanitation habits by removing dead or damaged parts of the plant. This is especially important, as dead leaves may attract pests to your plants.

One of the easiest to grow groups of plants are the succulents. Echeveria ‘Red Velvet’ is not only easy to grow but easy on the eyes with rosy pink tinted leaves and astounding fiery red blooms. The Red Velvet succulent plant is not freeze tolerant but makes a beautiful interior plant for the office or home. Try growing a Red Velvet plant with other small succulents in a container display, providing varied texture and color with little maintenance.

Echeveria Red Velvet Plants

Red Velvet Echeveria (Echeveria pulvinata) is a hybrid plant named for Athanasio Echeverria Godoy. The secondary name, pulvinata, refers to its cushion-like leaves. Red Velvet has softly hairy stems and chubby leaves. The species is from Mexico, but this particular cultivar originated in California. You will be charmed by Red Velvet. It is a small plant, growing only 12 inches (30 cm.) in height with a shrub-like form. The thickened leaves are oblong, coming to a point, and bear tracings of bright pink on the edges. In cool weather, the reddish tint becomes more intense. The leaves and stems have fine, reddish hairs giving a fuzzy appearance. Leaves are arranged in whorls, giving the clusters a flowery effect. These aren't the flowers, however. The blooms of Red Velvet Echeveria are tubular with orange-red petals and yellow interiors with green bracts. The plant is very ornamental and long lasting.

How to Grow Red Velvet

Red Velvet plants are hardy to United States Department of Agriculture zones 10 to 11, but even cool clime gardeners can enjoy them. As interior plants, they need full, indirect sun and well-draining soil. Outdoor plants also enjoy sun but need protection from noon day heat. Most soils are tolerable, but a pH of 5.5 to 6.5 is preferred by the Red Velvet succulent plant. Young plants should be pinched early to promote thicker more sturdy stems. Once you have fallen in love with your plant, propagation is easy. Take stem cuttings in spring and allow them to callus on the ends for a few days. Insert the cut end into soil and keep dry for two weeks. Then water normally and you will have a whole new plant.

Red Velvet Care

While growing a Red Velvet plant is relatively easy, there are some care tips for these easy-going plants. Water regularly but don't allow soil to remain soggy. Check manually and irrigate when soil is dry down to your second knuckle. You can also tell by the leaves when it is necessary to water. They will begin to pucker a bit if the plant needs moisture. Once established, Red Velvet can tolerate brief periods of drought. Light feeding with a diluted plant food in early spring keeps even potted plants happy. Root rots from excess moisture is the most common problem. Plants may also fall prey to mealybugs, aphids and slugs but, otherwise, this Echeveria is a very unbothered plant, even by deer.

Quick Facts

• Botanical name: Echeveria Crassulaceae
• Height: 12 inches (31 cm.)
• Spread: 12 inches (31 cm.)
• Sun exposure: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Rocky, sandy, well-draining
• Hardiness zones: 8-11
• When to plant: Spring

Echeveria Care

Echeveria care is similar to that of other succulents. There are 150 cultivated varieties of this plant. Most of the echeveria species are native to areas of southwest Texas and into South America and thrive in punishing heat and dry conditions. They have broad, fleshy leaves, often topped with spines that are adapted to holding water and preventing evaporation. A firm touch can mar the skin and leave marks.

While tolerant of many soil types, they require excellent drainage to prevent root and stem rot. Growing echeveria in an unglazed clay pot which allows water to evaporate, is ideal. Protect these plants from freezing temperatures and store potted plants indoors in winter. Echeveria plants do not need pruning, but it’s fine to pinch off damaged or errant growth when needed.

Light

As natives of southern regions, an echeveria should be planted in a full sun site. They need at least 8 hours of bright light daily. Houseplants should be placed in a southern or western window. Echeveria leaves can sport bold colors to iridescent pastels., but the best colors will result from plenty of sun. 

Water

In their wild state, echeverias receive very little water. During rainy seasons, they store water in their leaves in preparation for the dry seasons. The plants' soil should be allowed to dry thoroughly before watering. Container plants require a bit more water than those in the ground. Some echeverias are sensitive to tap water, so it's a good idea to allow the water to sit overnight to off-gas before watering them. In winter, diminish their watering by half. 

Temperature & Humidity

When caring for echeveria succulent plants, consider their native range. They have little cold hardiness, although there are a few varieties that can withstand sustained freezes. Houseleeks or hens and chicks are an exception. Most varieties are hardy to USDA zones 8-11, and if they’re growing outdoors outside of their range, they should be brought inside for winter. Indoor echeveria plants do not need high humidity and will do well in winter near heating vents. Avoid placing them near drafty windows and doors. 

Soil

These succulents are native to desert ranges and prefer rocky, sandy soil which drains well. Indoor plants in containers can manage well in traditional potting soil, but they will need less water than those grown in cactus soil. A simple homemade soil of 1 part potting soil, 1 part perlite, and 1 part coarse sand is an ideal medium for indoor echeveria plants. 

Outdoors, provide some mulch around them with gravel or sand to help prevent weeds and conserve moisture.

Fertilizer

Most succulents do not need supplemental feeding. In spring, container plants will benefit from a cactus food, diluted by half during watering. Fertilize every 8 weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid food or treat the plant once in spring with a slow-release granular formula. Avoid getting fertilizer on the lovely leaves, as it may burn them. 

Problems, Pests & Diseases

Outdoor plants are prey to more pests than those indoors. Aphids, spider mites, and mealy worms are prime pests. Spray the plant with rubbing alcohol to get rid of any insects. The most common issues result from overwatering. Excess moisture in the soil can cause the plant's roots and stems to rot. Only water these plants when their soil is dry to the touch. Plants that are kept in too little light will get leggy and the color will suffer. 

Echeveria Propagation

Echeveria and most succulents have an amazing ability to produce pups or offsets. These baby plants grow along the stem or occasionally right next to the parent plant. Using a sterile, sharp knife, cut away the small plant. If you place the cutting in well-draining soil it will root. 

The plant may also be propagated from leaves. Place a leaf on the surface of the soil and it will produce roots within a few weeks and soon a small rosette will grow next to the rooted leaf. The original leaf will dry up and crumble off of the new plant.

Repotting Echeveria

Due to their low nutrient needs and the native areas where they grow naturally, echeverias do not need to be repotted too frequently, but it’s fine to repot them with new soil every couple of years. The size of the container should be only a tiny bit larger than the body of the plant. They prefer to be slightly crowded. 

How to Make Echeveria Flower

Flowering Echeverias are a sight to behold, but getting them to flower can be a challenge. Outdoor plants don't need much assistance and will flower in early spring. Indoor plants, however, should be placed in a window with bright light or under artificial light in dimmer conditions. Ensure that the plants get 8 hours of sunlight per day. Container plants prefer a crowded pot when forming flowers. 

Common Types of Echeveria

Here are some of the most common types of echeveria and how to recognize them:

• Echeveria Afterglow- Rich pink leaf edges with bright green centers.
• Echeveria agavoides- Deeply green rosettes
• Echeveria Alta May- A ruffled variety
• Echeveria Andromeda- Crimped ashy blue leaves
• Echeveria pulvinata- Velvety red-tinged leaves
• Echeveria subrigida- Large rosettes with blue-green leaves
• Echeveria Topsy Turvy- Twisted, curling gray leaves
• Echeveria Baron Bold- Bumpy, warty chartreuse leaves
• Echeveria Candy Wright- Deeply pink with just the barest green center

Echeveria Uses

Echeverias make excellent houseplants. Use them in a dish garden surrounded by succulents with the same care and light needs. In the garden they may be tucked in around rocks in the rockery, grown in containers, or added to flower beds for dimension and texture. The echeveria succulent is slow-growing and usually does not exceed 12 inches (31 cm) in height or spread.

Tender outdoor plants should be planted in containers and brought indoors for winter.