Echeveria 'Ariel Cristata' is a small, interesting plant that forms beautiful sculptural shapes as it grows.
Scientific Name
Echeveria 'Ariel Cristata'
Accepted Scientific Name
Echeveria 'Ariel'
Synonym(s)
Echeveria 'Ling Snow Cristata'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Genus: Echeveria
Origin
Echeveria 'Ariel Cristata' is a form of Echeveria 'Ariel' selected for its mutated growth.
Description
Echeveria 'Ariel Cristata', also known as Echeveria 'Ling Snow Cristata', is a fascinating succulent with fleshy, pointed leaves densely packed along flattened stems. The leaves are shorter and narrower than those in the normal form of Echeveria 'Ariel' and have a delicate powdery covering. The color of the leaves changes from bluish-green with hints of pink to orangish and rosy pink with the characteristic pink spots when the plant is under stress. Each specimen of this plant has a unique and intriguing shape.
How to Grow and Care for Echeveria 'Ariel Cristata'
Light: Echeveria 'Ariel Cristata' requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Therefore, place it near the brightest window in your home. In addition, if you are moving the plant outside in spring, do it gradually and avoid exposure to intense afternoon sun.
Soil: Having soil that drains quickly is most important for growing a healthy succulent. While many growers prefer to create their own soil mix, commercial soil for succulents will work fine.
Temperature: High temperatures are not a problem as long as there is plenty of fresh air, but Echeveria 'Ariel Cristata' is a tender succulent and must be brought indoors if there is a risk of freezing temperatures. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C).
Watering: During the growing season, the "soak and dry" method is the preferred schedule for this plant. Water deeply and then let the soil completely dry out before watering again. Water sparingly during the winter, only enough to keep the plant from shriveling. Above all, if you have a saucer under the pot, do not forget to empty the excess water.
Fertilizing: Although it can grow well without fertilizer, the plant may benefit from extra nutrients. Feed only during the growing season and use a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength.
Repotting: If growing it in a container, repot as needed in spring or early summer, but ensure the soil is dry before you start. Also, always use a container with drainage holes.
Propagation: Echeveria 'Ariel Cristata' can be propagated by stem cuttings in the spring.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Echeveria.
Toxicity of Echeveria 'Ariel Cristata'
Echeveria 'Ariel Cristata' has no reported toxic effects and is safe for growing around children and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Echeveria
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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