Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’, commonly known as “Topsy Turvy,” is a captivating succulent. It features a distinctive rosette form with broad, spoon-shaped leaves that curl inward. The foliage is typically pale green to bluish-green, deepening to silvery-grey or blushing with pinkish-red tips in bright sunlight or temperature variations. Its striking appearance and straightforward care make it a favored choice.
Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’ Care
Light
Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’ thrives in bright, direct sunlight, ideally at least six hours daily, to maintain its compact shape and vibrant coloration. Insufficient light causes etiolation, resulting in elongated stems and widely spaced leaves. While it enjoys strong light, extreme heat or intense afternoon sun can lead to sunburn, so some protection may be beneficial outdoors.
Watering
Water Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’ using the “soak and dry” method to prevent root rot. Thoroughly saturate the soil until water drains from the pot, then allow it to dry completely before the next watering. Overwatering can lead to mushy leaves and stem rot. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter period.
Soil
A well-draining soil mix is essential for Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’ to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus mix is ideal. Alternatively, create a blend by combining potting soil with inorganic amendments like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand, aiming for 50% to 70% mineral grit. Always use a pot with drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’ prefers moderate temperatures, ideally 65 to 80°F (18 to 27°C). Prolonged exposure below 30°F (-1°C) can be damaging; bring potted plants indoors if freezing temperatures are expected. This succulent thrives in low humidity environments.
Fertilizing
Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’ has minimal fertilization needs. If fertilizing, apply a balanced, diluted succulent or cactus fertilizer during its active growing season (spring and summer), typically once every two to three weeks. Avoid fertilizing during dormant winter months to prevent nutrient burn or weakened growth.
Propagating Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’
Offsets
Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’ readily produces small plantlets, or “pups,” around the base, making offset propagation straightforward. Gently remove offsets when large enough, ideally with some roots. Allow the cut end to callus for a few days to a week to prevent rot. Plant the callused offset in fresh succulent soil. Water sparingly until roots establish, then resume regular watering. Provide bright, indirect light for healthy development.
Leaf Cuttings
Propagating from leaf cuttings is possible but less reliable than offsets. Select a healthy, mature leaf and gently twist it from the stem, ensuring the entire base remains intact for successful rooting. Allow the leaf cutting to callus for several days until dry. Place it on top of well-draining succulent soil, laying it flat or inserting the callused end slightly. Mist lightly every few days, avoiding overwatering. Roots and a new rosette should emerge from the leaf’s base.
Common Problems and Solutions
Overwatering and Rot
Overwatering frequently causes root and stem rot in Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’. Signs include mushy, translucent, or yellow leaves, and a soft, black stem. Prevent this by using the “soak and dry” method and ensuring well-draining soil with drainage holes. If rot is detected early, unpot the plant, remove affected tissue with a clean tool, allow it to dry, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Underwatering and Shriveled Leaves
Underwatering can also harm Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’. Symptoms include dry, shriveled, or brittle leaves, and lower leaves drying and falling off. Provide a thorough watering using the “soak and dry” method until water drains. Consistent watering will help leaves rehydrate and regain plumpness.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth, or etiolation, occurs when Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’ lacks sufficient light, causing the stem to stretch and leaves to become widely spaced. The rosette appears loose. Move the plant to a brighter location, ideally receiving at least six hours of direct sun daily. For severe etiolation, “behead” the plant by cutting the stretched stem below the compact rosette, allowing it to callus, then replant for new, compact growth.
Pests
Echeveria Runyonii ‘Rose’ can occasionally attract common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses, while aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects on new growth. Regularly inspect your plant. For minor infestations, wipe pests with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol. For widespread issues, apply insecticidal soap as directed. Removing dead leaves from the plant’s base can also deter pests.