Pulido’s Echeveria (Echeveria pulidonis) is a popular succulent, cherished for its distinctive charm and striking coloration. Its compact form makes it a favored addition to diverse plant collections, bringing a unique aesthetic to any space, whether in a container or a succulent garden.
Understanding Pulido’s Echeveria
This echeveria forms stemless rosettes, 4 to 5 inches (10-12 cm) wide, densely packed with over 25 fleshy, pale silvery-green leaves. Each leaf features a vibrant red margin and tip, which intensifies in strong light. Though appearing stemless, the rosette grows on a short, slender stem, reaching up to 8 inches (20 cm) in height and 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in spread.
Essential Care for Pulido’s Echeveria
Light Needs
Pulido’s Echeveria thrives in bright light, requiring at least six hours of daily sunlight for optimal growth and color. While it tolerates partial sun, insufficient light causes etiolation, making the plant stretch and leaves lose color. Outdoors, gradually expose the plant to natural light. Direct, intense sunlight can cause leaf burn, so provide some protection during the harshest part of the day.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is important for Pulido’s Echeveria. The “soak and dry” method is recommended: water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot, then allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot, so ensure the soil is dry to the touch before watering again. Adjust frequency seasonally, watering more in warmer months and significantly less during winter dormancy.
Ideal Soil and Potting
Well-draining soil is essential for Pulido’s Echeveria, preventing waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus mix is ideal, providing necessary drainage and aeration. Always use containers with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Repotting may be needed every one to two years, or when the plant outgrows its current container, ideally in spring to promote healthy growth.
Temperature and Humidity
Pulido’s Echeveria prefers warm, dry conditions, with an optimal temperature range between 68°F and 100°F (20°C and 38°C). It is not frost-hardy and requires protection from freezing temperatures. Average household humidity levels are sufficient for indoor cultivation. During winter months, maintain temperatures above 32°F (0°C), with 50-59°F (10-15°C) suitable for dormant periods.
Fertilization
Pulido’s Echeveria has minimal fertilization needs. A diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer can be applied fortnightly during the active growing season (late spring and summer), or a slow-release fertilizer once a year in spring. Over-fertilization can lead to weak growth, so moderation is important.
Propagating Pulido’s Echeveria
Propagating Pulido’s Echeveria is straightforward through leaf cuttings or by separating offsets. For leaf cuttings, carefully remove a healthy, plump leaf from the stem, ensuring its entire base is intact. Allow the leaf to callus for a few days in a dry, shaded area before placing on well-draining soil. New roots and a tiny rosette will emerge.
Offsets, also known as “pups,” form around the base of the mature plant. These can be carefully twisted or cut from the mother plant using a clean, sharp knife. Allow offsets to callus for a few days before planting them in their own well-draining soil. Both methods are best performed in spring or early summer, allowing new plants ample time to establish.
Common Issues and Solutions
Pulido’s Echeveria can experience common problems, primarily related to improper care. Overwatering is a frequent cause of mushy leaves and stem rot. Resolve this by reducing watering frequency and ensuring proper drainage. For advanced rot, repot into fresh, dry soil after removing affected parts.
Insufficient light leads to etiolation, where the plant stretches towards a light source, resulting in elongated stems and pale leaves. Move the plant to a brighter location; existing etiolated growth will not revert. Pests such as mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites can affect Echeveria. Manage them by wiping with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or using insecticidal soap.