Echeveria runyonii 'Illusion' is a rare and unique succulent that grows in fascinating shapes.
Scientific Name
Echeveria runyonii 'Illusion'
Synonym(s)
Echeveria runyonii 'Topsy Turvy Cristata'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Genus: Echeveria
Origin
Echeveria runyonii 'Illusion' is a crested form of Echeveria runyonii 'Topsy Turvy' published by Harry Mak in the Photo Album of Succulents in Color Volume 3 (2003).
Description
Echeveria runyonii 'Illusion', usually sold as Echeveria runyonii 'Topsy Turvy Cristata', is a captivating succulent with fleshy, distorted leaves tightly packed along flattened stems. The plant produces many new crests at its base, forming a nice clump, and each specimen has a unique and intriguing shape. The leaves of Echeveria runyonii 'Illusion' are shorter and narrower than those of Echeveria runyonii 'Topsy Turvy'. They are pale blue-green to silvery-blue, covered with a powdery bloom, and often have hints of pink near the tips.
How to Grow and Care for Echeveria runyonii 'Illusion'
Light: Echeveria runyonii 'Illusion' 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 runyonii 'Illusion' 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 runyonii 'Illusion' can be propagated by stem cuttings in the spring.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Echeveria.
Toxicity of Echeveria runyonii 'Illusion'
Echeveria runyonii 'Illusion' 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
Photo Gallery
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