Scientific Name
Echeveria 'Violet Queen'
Common Name(s)
Violet Queen Hens and Chicks
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Genus: Echeveria
Origin
This succulent is thought to be an Echeveria elegans hybrid created by legendary Santa Barbara horticulturalist Edward (E.O.) Orpet. It is incorrectly called Echeveria subsessilis in New Zealand.
Description
Echeveria 'Violet Queen' is a fast-growing succulent that forms rosettes of long narrow leaves that curve up slightly towards the tips to create an open lotus blossom shape. Rosettes grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter and freely offset to form a dense mound. Leaves are silver-green with hits of pink on edges and tips when moderately stressed by the bright sun or cool temperatures. They are covered in a silvery, waxy powder. Watch for pinkish-orange flowers that appear nodding on unbranched inflorescence in spring.
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. 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.
Most Echeverias can be easily propagated from leaf cuttings, although some 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.
Links
- Back to genus Echeveria
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
