Although it is small in size, Echeveria setosa var. deminuta 'Cristata' is an intriguing plant.
Scientific Name
Echeveria setosa var. deminuta 'Cristata'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Genus: Echeveria
Description
Echeveria setosa var. deminuta 'Cristata' is a fascinating small succulent with blue-green, club-shaped leaves densely packed along crested stems. The leaves are smaller than the normal Echeveria setosa var. deminuta and have a tuft of white bristles at the tips. When exposed to strong sunlight or cold temperatures, the leaves take on a beautiful red hue. Each specimen has a distinct shape that makes it one-of-a-kind.
Origin
Echeveria setosa var. deminuta 'Cristata' is a form of Echeveria setosa var. deminuta selected for its crested growth.
How to Grow and Care for Echeveria setosa var. deminuta 'Cristata'
Light: Echeveria setosa var. deminuta '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 setosa var. deminuta '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 9b 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 setosa var. deminuta 'Cristata' is easily propagated by stem cuttings in spring.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Echeveria.
Toxicity of Echeveria setosa var. deminuta 'Cristata'
Echeveria setosa var. deminuta 'Cristata' has no toxic effects reported. But although the plant is safe for growing around children and pets, eating it is not advisable.
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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