Scientific Name
Echeveria 'Moondust'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Genus: Echeveria
Origin
This succulent is a hybrid that results from a cross between Echeveria laui and Echeveria lilacina. It was created by the late Robert Grim of San Jose, California, United States.
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 grows up to 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter. It combines the thick leaves of Echeveria laui with the more symmetrical, multi-leaved rosette of Echeveria lilacina.
Flowers are coral pink, bell-shaped, and appear in clusters on arching stalks in summer.
Etymology
The hybrid epithet "Moondust" refers to the fine powdery covering of the leaves.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 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. 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 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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