Echeveria – A family of desert succulents from the Crassulaceae family.
Echeverias form a rosette of fleshy leaves on short stems.
Most are a silver, blue-grey that become tinged with red when exposed to the sun.
Most Echeveria are hardy enough to withstand temperatures to around freezing, however they do require a sheltered spot away from excess moisture. Planted at an angle in a raised bed or rockery, in very free draining soil, which includes sand or grit, will give the plant the best chance of survival. Alternatively plant in pots that can be moved during Winter to a dry position.
Or enjoy in the home on a bright, sunny windowsill.
Secrets of success:
Keep your plant happy by trying to recreate their natural habitat.
During Winter months keep cool and dry, in the Spring and Summer they love bright light and high temperatures.
Although they can obviously tolerate full sun they can become faded, so give a little protection from concentrated rays. Even though succulents are defined as needing little water, as they store it in their leaves and stems, they will not thrive with too little. In the growing season, Spring and Summer, water thoroughly once a week. If possible use rain water. Then make sure to allow to dry before watering again.
While growing feed once a month using a specific succulent fertiliser. This helps to produce healthy growth and better flowering.
Minimum Temp: Around 0c - 4c
Aftercare:
During the Winter your plant will enter a rest period.
Most desert dwellers can be left with little or no water.
If your plant becomes extremely pot bound then re-pot in Spring, ready for the growing season. Firstly water the plant and allow to drain. Carefully remove the plant, taking care to protect your hands, and place in a slightly larger pot, using only free draining cacti and succulent compost.
Warnings:
Not known to be toxic to pets or humans.
