Scientific Name
Echeveria leucotricha J.A.Purpus
Common Name(s)
Chenille Plant
Synonym(s)
Echeveria pulvinata var. leucotricha
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Genus: Echeveria
Origin
Echeveria leucotricha is native to Mexico (Puebla).
Description
Echeveria leucotricha, also known as Echeveria pulvinata var. leucotricha, is a small succulent shrub with short stems tipped with rosettes of green leaves densely covered with white hairs and brown hairs at the tip. It can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall. The leaves are thick, fleshy, oblanceolate, and upcurved, ending in a short sharp point. They can measure up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide.
The red, bell-shaped flowers appear in fall and winter on ascending, spike-like, or sub-paniculate inflorescences that can grow up to 16 inches (40 cm) long.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Most common Echeveria species are not complicated succulents to grow, provided you follow a few basic rules. First, be careful never to let water sit in the rosette as it can cause rot or fungal diseases that will kill the plant. Additionally, remove dead leaves from the bottom of the plant as it grows. These dead leaves provide a haven for pests, and Echeverias are susceptible to mealy bugs. As with all succulents, careful watering habits and plenty of light will help ensure success.
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot a succulent, ensure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, removing any rotted or dead roots. Treat any cuts with a fungicide.
Most Echeverias can be easily propagated from leaf cuttings, although a few are better from seeds or stem cuttings. To propagate a leaf cutting, place the individual leaf in potting soil for succulents and cover the dish until the new plant sprouts.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Echeveria.
Hybrids
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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