Echeveria ‘Devotion’ (Echeveria pulvinata ‘Devotion’) is a popular succulent cultivar. This striking plant forms tight, terminal rosettes of fleshy leaves atop short stems. It is sometimes called the Chenille Plant because its entire leaf surface, including the edges, is covered in fine, short hairs, giving it a soft, velvety texture. The leaves are typically mint green, but they develop a beautiful, contrasting deep red or burgundy margin when exposed to sufficient light.
Ideal Growing Environment
Succulents like the ‘Devotion’ Echeveria thrive in environments that mimic arid conditions. The most important factor is light, which directly influences its health and coloration. It requires a minimum of four to six hours of bright, direct sunlight daily to maintain its compact rosette shape and vibrant red edges.
Insufficient light levels cause the plant to stretch out, a condition known as etiolation, where the stem elongates as the plant reaches for light. Indoors, a south-facing window is usually the best location. A grow light positioned 6 to 12 inches above the plant can supplement light during darker seasons. If moving the Echeveria outdoors, introduce it to intense sun gradually to prevent the leaves from scorching.
The foundation for a healthy Echeveria lies in its growing medium and container. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix is necessary because it is formulated to be fast-draining and porous. Standard potting soil retains too much moisture, which can lead to root rot, the most common cause of succulent death. The container itself must have a drainage hole, preventing the plant from sitting in standing water.
Echeveria ‘Devotion’ prefers warm, dry conditions. The ideal temperature range for active growth is between 65 and 80°F (18–27°C). It is a tender succulent and is not frost-tolerant, meaning it must be protected from temperatures below 30°F. During winter, when growth slows, keeping it in a cool spot is acceptable, but cold drafts should be avoided.
Essential Watering and Feeding Practices
Correct watering is the most delicate aspect of caring for Echeveria, as the plant stores water in its thick, fleshy leaves. The standard “soak and dry” method is the preferred schedule. This involves thoroughly drenching the soil and then allowing it to dry out completely before watering again. In active growth during spring and summer, this may be every one to two weeks, depending on heat and humidity.
A visual or physical check is the most reliable way to determine if the plant needs water; the soil should be bone dry several inches down. It is important to avoid getting water on the leaves of the ‘Devotion’ cultivar. Its fuzzy covering can trap moisture, which can lead to rot or fungal issues. Careful application directly to the soil or using a bottom-watering technique is advisable.
Seasonal changes significantly affect the plant’s watering needs because Echeveria enter a period of dormancy in winter. During these cooler months, the plant requires very little water—just enough to keep the leaves from shriveling. This prevents the roots from rotting in cold, damp soil. Water should be reduced or stopped entirely when the ambient temperature drops and light levels are low.
While Echeveria generally do not require much fertilizer, providing some nutrients during the active growing season can promote robust health. If feeding, a balanced liquid fertilizer should be diluted to one-quarter strength and applied once a month during the spring and summer. Fertilization should be avoided completely during the winter dormancy period, as the plant is not actively utilizing the nutrients.
Multiplying Your Echeveria and Addressing Issues
The ‘Devotion’ Echeveria is relatively easy to multiply using a few different methods.
Propagation Methods
A common technique is propagation from leaf cuttings. This involves gently twisting a healthy leaf from the stem to ensure the whole leaf base is intact. The leaf must then be left in a dry spot for several days to allow the raw end to form a protective callus. Once the cut has dried, the leaf can be placed on well-draining soil, and new growth will eventually sprout from the calloused end.
Stem cuttings are another option, particularly if the plant has become “leggy” due to insufficient light. The stem is cut and allowed to dry for a few days to callus before being planted in fresh, dry soil. Additionally, mature plants often produce offsets, sometimes called “chicks.” These small clones can be carefully separated from the mother plant and replanted.
Pests and Common Problems
The most frequent pests to watch for are mealybugs. These are small, white, cottony insects that feed on plant sap. They often hide in the crevices where the leaves meet the stem and can be treated by dabbing them directly with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol.
Overwatering is the most common issue, presenting as mushy, yellow, or translucent leaves, which indicates root rot is likely occurring. Conversely, a shriveled or wrinkled appearance, especially on the lower leaves, signals that the plant is underwatered and needs a thorough soak.