Echeveria macdougallii is a popular succulent known for its unique form and vibrant coloration. Native to the semi-desert regions of Oaxaca, southern Mexico, it thrives in various home environments due to its compact growth and straightforward care.
Distinguishing Features
Echeveria macdougallii grows upright and shrub-like, forming small rosettes on woody stems, reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall with rosettes about 1.2 inches (3 cm) in diameter. Its thick, fleshy leaves are typically pastel green with prominent pink to red edges, intensifying with cooler temperatures or ample light.
As it matures, the plant develops branching, woody stems. It produces bell-shaped flowers, usually red with yellow tips, in clusters of about three on stalks up to 3.6 inches (9 cm) tall, blooming during summer.
Optimal Care for Echeveria macdougallii
Light Requirements
Echeveria macdougallii needs strong light, preferring full to partial sun. Outdoors, it benefits from ample sunlight; indoors, bright, indirect light is suitable. Insufficient light causes etiolation, leading to elongated stems, less compact leaves, and faded colors. Too much intense direct sun, especially afternoon sun, can cause scorching.
Watering Needs
Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains, then allow the soil to become fully dry before rewatering. Overwatering often causes root rot and fungal diseases, as Echeveria macdougallii does not tolerate standing water or perpetually wet soil. Mushy leaves indicate overwatering; shriveled leaves suggest underwatering. Reduce watering during winter or dormant periods.
Soil and Potting
Well-draining, gritty soil is essential to prevent water retention around the roots. A succulent or cactus-specific soil mix, often containing peat moss, perlite, and cinders, is recommended. Pots with drainage holes are crucial; unglazed terracotta pots are a good choice as they promote evaporation and airflow. Repot when the plant outgrows its container, preferably during the warmer growing season, ensuring the soil is dry first.
Temperature and Humidity
Echeveria macdougallii prefers warm climates and is suited for USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b, tolerating temperatures down to 20°F (-6.7°C). If temperatures drop below freezing, especially around 25°F (-3.9°C), indoor protection is recommended to prevent frostbite. The plant thrives in dry, ventilated environments, preferring low humidity, similar to its native semi-desert habitat.
Fertilization
Fertilize Echeveria macdougallii minimally, only during its active growing season (spring to early fall). A diluted succulent or cactus formula, applied monthly at half-strength, is sufficient. Over-fertilization can cause stretching or etiolation if light is insufficient for new growth. Cease fertilization entirely during winter when growth slows.
Propagating Echeveria macdougallii
Echeveria macdougallii can be propagated through leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, and offsets.
Leaf Cuttings
Select a healthy leaf and gently twist it from the stem. Allow it to callous for a few days in a dry, cool place to prevent rot. Once calloused, place it on well-draining succulent soil, providing light moisture and indirect light until roots and new rosettes emerge.
Stem Cuttings
Cut a sturdy stem with several leaves. Allow the cut end to callous for a few days, then plant it directly into dry, granular succulent soil.
Offsets
Gently separate small plantlets (offsets) that form around the parent plant’s base. Plant them in well-draining soil, watering regularly as they establish.
Common Issues and Solutions
Etiolation, characterized by stretched stems and widely spaced leaves, is caused by insufficient light. Correct this by gradually moving the plant to a brighter location; existing stretching is irreversible. Root rot is a frequent problem from overwatering or poorly draining soil. Address it by reducing watering frequency, ensuring the soil dries completely between waterings, and using a well-draining succulent mix in a pot with drainage holes.
Pests like mealybugs and aphids can affect Echeveria macdougallii. These insects often hide within rosettes, so regular inspection is beneficial. Removing dead leaves helps deter pests. Treat pests with insecticidal soap or by dabbing them with rubbing alcohol. Yellowing or dropping leaves can indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies, requiring care adjustment.