Scientific Name
Echeveria 'Moondust'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Genus: Echeveria
Etymology
The cultivar epithet 'Moondust' refers to the fine powdery covering of the leaves of this hybrid.
Origin
Echeveria 'Moondust' is a hybrid created by the late Robert Grim of San Jose, California, United States. It results from a cross between Echeveria laui and Echeveria lilacina.
Description
Echeveria 'Moondust' is a slow-growing succulent that forms a usually solitary rosette of greyish-green leaves covered with a fine, waxy bloom that rubs off when touched. The rosette can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter. This hybrid combines the thick leaves of Echeveria laui with the more symmetrical, multi-leaved rosette of Echeveria lilacina.
The flowers are coral pink, bell-shaped, and appear in summer in clusters on arching stalks.
How to Grow and Care for Echeveria 'Moondust'
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
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 particularly susceptible to mealybugs. Finally, 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. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill it with potting soil, spreading the roots out as you repot. Leave the plant dry for a week or so, then begin to water lightly to reduce the risk of root rot.
Most Echeveria can be easily propagated from leaf cuttings, although a few are better propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. To propagate a leaf cutting, place the individual leaf in a succulent or cacti mix and cover the dish until the new plant sprouts.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Echeveria.
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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