Echeveria ‘Bittersweet’ is a captivating succulent known for its striking appearance. Its unique coloration, blending shades of green, red, and orange, makes it a highly sought-after plant for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. This distinctive echeveria adds vibrant visual interest to any succulent collection or indoor display. Its compact rosette form further enhances its appeal as an ornamental plant.
What is Echeveria Bittersweet
Echeveria ‘Bittersweet’ is a hybrid succulent, created in California in 1970. This evergreen succulent forms rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves up to 30 cm (approximately 12 inches) in diameter. The leaves display a range of colors, transitioning from bluish-green to coral, orange, or light mahogany-red, often with crimped edges. These colors become more pronounced with exposure to bright sunlight or cooler temperatures. In spring or summer, it produces bell-shaped red and yellow flowers on long stems.
Caring for Echeveria Bittersweet
Light
Echeveria ‘Bittersweet’ thrives in bright, indirect light, ideally receiving full sun to partial shade. Adequate light is essential for maintaining its vibrant coloration; insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch and lose its compact rosette shape, a condition known as etiolation. While it tolerates short periods of direct sunlight, intense heat or prolonged exposure can lead to leaf scorching. Placing it near a south or west-facing window indoors provides sufficient light.
Watering
Watering Echeveria ‘Bittersweet’ correctly is important. Like most succulents, it stores water in its thick leaves and stems, preferring dry conditions. The “soak and dry” method is recommended: water thoroughly until excess drains, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot if the soil remains wet for too long. Signs of underwatering include wrinkled or shriveled leaves.
Soil
Echeveria ‘Bittersweet’ requires a porous, well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A standard cactus potting mix is suitable, or you can create your own by blending all-purpose potting soil with components like coarse sand, perlite, or pumice. The soil should allow water to drain quickly, ensuring proper airflow around the plant’s shallow root system. Using unglazed clay pots can further enhance airflow and moisture evaporation.
Temperature and Humidity
Echeveria ‘Bittersweet’ prefers temperatures between 65°F and 70°F (18°C-21°C) and does not tolerate cold temperatures below 50°F (10°C). It is not cold hardy and should be protected from freezing temperatures, ideally brought indoors if frost is a risk. Echeverias prefer low humidity, thriving in levels between 30% to 50%. High humidity can contribute to root rot and fungal infections if the soil stays moist.
Fertilizing
Echeveria ‘Bittersweet’ requires minimal fertilization. If you fertilize, do so sparingly during its active growing season in spring and summer. A diluted, balanced liquid succulent fertilizer applied at half-strength once a month is sufficient. Avoid fertilizing during winter when the plant is dormant.
Propagating Echeveria Bittersweet
Echeveria ‘Bittersweet’ can be propagated from both leaf and stem cuttings. For leaf propagation, gently remove a healthy leaf, ensuring the entire leaf detaches cleanly. Allow the removed leaf or stem cutting to “callus” or dry for a few days in a warm, dry area away from direct sunlight. This callusing prevents rot when planted.
Once callused, lay leaf cuttings on the surface of well-draining succulent soil or plant stem cuttings upright. New plantlets with roots will emerge from the leaf base, or the stem cutting will root. Keep the soil lightly moist by misting occasionally. Provide bright, indirect light while new plants establish.
Common Problems and Solutions
Echeveria ‘Bittersweet’ can encounter common issues. Overwatering is a frequent cause of root rot, manifesting as yellowing or drooping leaves and a mushy stem base. To address root rot, remove the plant, trim any rotted roots, allow the plant to dry and callus, then repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
Etiolation, characterized by stretched, leggy growth and widely spaced leaves, indicates insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location is the solution, though stretched growth will not revert.
Pest infestations, such as mealybugs, are also possible. These small, white, cottony insects can be found on leaves and stems. Treat mealybugs by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by using insecticidal soap. Ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding excessive humidity can help prevent such issues.