Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ is a popular succulent, known for its iridescent coloration of purple, pink, and grey hues. Its beauty and adaptable nature make it a favorite among both beginner and experienced plant collectors.
Understanding Echeveria Purple Perle von Nurnberg
The Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ is a hybrid succulent, created in Germany in the 1930s from a cross between Echeveria gibbiflora ‘Metallica’ and Echeveria elegans. It has a compact, rosette shape formed by fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves. Leaves display a pastel grey base with purplish-pink highlights, often covered in a fine, powdery coating called farina, giving them a pearly sheen. It remains small, reaching about 6 to 10 inches tall and 6 to 8 inches wide. In summer, it produces arching flower stalks with coral pink or yellow-interior blooms.
Caring for Your Echeveria Purple Perle von Nurnberg
Light Requirements
Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ requires abundant bright light to maintain its vibrant coloration and compact form. It thrives with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. For indoor cultivation, a south-facing window is the best placement. Insufficient light causes the plant to stretch out (etiolation) and its purple and pink tones to fade.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is crucial; this succulent is highly susceptible to rot if overwatered. The “soak and dry” method is recommended: water thoroughly until water drains, then allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. It is safer to underwater than to overwater, as succulents store water in their leaves and stems. Watering frequency varies seasonally, with more frequent watering in warmer months and less in winter when dormant.
Soil and Potting
Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ demands a well-draining soil mix. A specialized succulent or cactus mix is ideal, or amend regular potting soil with gritty materials like perlite, coarse sand, or shredded bark at a 1:1 ratio. A pot with drainage holes is essential. Repotting is infrequent, typically only when the plant outgrows its container or every few years to refresh the soil.
Temperature and Airflow
It prefers warm conditions, thriving in temperatures between 68°F and 80°F (20°C-27°C) during the day. It is not cold-hardy and needs protection from frost, as temperatures below 30°F (-1.1°C) can cause damage. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal issues and pest infestations. Avoid overly humid environments, as it prefers dry conditions.
Fertilizing
Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ has minimal fertilization needs. If fertilizing, do so sparingly during its active growing season in spring and summer. Use a liquid fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents or a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer, diluted to half or even one-quarter of the recommended strength. Over-fertilization can lead to leggy growth and may harm the plant.
Propagating Echeveria Purple Perle von Nurnberg
Propagating Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ is commonly achieved through leaf or stem cuttings. For leaf propagation, gently twist a leaf from the stem, ensuring a clean break. Allow the leaf to dry and form a callus for a few days before placing it on well-draining succulent soil. Keep the soil lightly moist; roots and new plantlets should emerge in several weeks.
Stem cuttings involve beheading the rosette or taking a stem section, especially if the plant is leggy. After making a clean cut with a sharp, sterile knife, allow the cut end to callus for several days to a week. Once callused, plant the stem directly into well-draining soil. Maintain light moisture; new roots will develop, establishing it as a new plant.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ can experience common problems. Insufficient light causes etiolation (stretched stems, spaced leaves) and faded color; move the plant to a brighter location or use a grow light. Overwatering leads to mushy, rotting leaves; resolve by allowing soil to dry completely between waterings and ensuring proper drainage. Shriveled or dry leaves signal underwatering, requiring a thorough soak. Mealybugs, appearing as small white, cottony masses, feed on plant sap. Treat them by dabbing with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol or using insecticidal soap.