Sedeveria ‘Blue Burrito’ is a popular succulent, favored for its distinctive appearance and easy care. Its plump, blue-green leaves and trailing growth habit make it a popular choice for hanging baskets or windowsills. Its low-maintenance nature appeals to both new and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Understanding Sedeveria ‘Blue Burrito’
Sedeveria ‘Blue Burrito’ is a hybrid succulent, resulting from a cross between Sedum morganianum ‘Burrito’ and Echeveria peacockii. Its elongated, tightly packed leaves along cascading stems resemble a “burrito” or “donkey’s tail.” Foliage is bluish-green, often blushing pink in bright sunlight. A powdery coating, farina, gives leaves a frosty texture and protects them from the sun. It grows up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide, spreading and trailing.
Sedeveria ‘Blue Burrito’ Care Essentials
Light
Sedeveria ‘Blue Burrito’ needs bright, indirect sunlight. A south-facing window or grow light provides illumination. Avoid harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch, though morning sun is tolerated. Insufficient light causes etiolation, leading to leggy stems and sparse leaves.
Watering
Use the “soak and dry” method. Water thoroughly until drainage occurs, then allow the soil to dry completely before rewatering. Overwatering causes root rot; ensure proper drainage and avoid standing water. Reduce watering significantly in winter, sometimes to once a month, as growth slows.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is important. A succulent or cactus mix prevents moisture retention and promotes aeration. These mixes often include perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve drainage and prevent compaction. Avoid regular potting soil, which retains too much moisture and causes root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Sedeveria ‘Blue Burrito’ prefers average room temperatures (65-75°F / 18-24°C). It tolerates low humidity. Protect from frost and extreme heat, which can damage the plant. Bring indoors or provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 30-40°F (-1.1 to 4.4°C).
Fertilizing
Succulents like Sedeveria ‘Blue Burrito’ do not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced, water-soluble succulent fertilizer at half strength during the spring and summer growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter, as this can weaken the plant. Fish emulsion, kelp solution, or worm castings are also gentle options.
Repotting Sedeveria ‘Blue Burrito’
Repot Sedeveria ‘Blue Burrito’ every two to three years, or when it becomes root-bound or soil quality degrades. Select a slightly larger pot with drainage holes. Gently remove the plant, handling roots delicately. Fill the new pot with fresh, well-draining succulent soil, positioning the plant at a similar depth. Delay the first watering for several days to a week after repotting. This allows damaged roots to callous, reducing rot risk.
Propagating Sedeveria ‘Blue Burrito’
Leaf and stem cuttings are straightforward propagation methods. For leaf propagation, gently twist a healthy leaf from the main stem, ensuring the entire leaf and its base are removed. For stem cuttings, use a sharp, sterile knife or scissors to cut a few-inch section with several leaves. Allow the cut end to callous over for several days to a week in a dry, shaded area. This forms a protective seal, preventing rot when planted. Once calloused, place leaf cuttings on well-draining soil or insert stem cuttings 0.5 to 1 inch deep. Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, until roots and new growth appear.
Common Problems and Solutions
Sedeveria ‘Blue Burrito’ may face issues related to environmental conditions. Etiolation (stretched appearance, widely spaced leaves) indicates insufficient light. Gradually increase light exposure by moving it to a brighter location or using a grow light. Mushy or translucent leaves signal overwatering and root rot. Reduce watering frequency and ensure soil dries completely between waterings.
Shriveled or wrinkled leaves indicate underwatering. Though drought-tolerant, prolonged dryness causes thirst. Thorough watering rehydrates the plant, returning leaves to their plump state. Mealybugs and spider mites can affect the plant. Mealybugs appear as cotton-like masses; spider mites may create fine webbing. Treat mealybugs with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab, or use insecticidal soap for widespread infestations.