PlantFiles: Echeveria
Echeveria subrigida

The ideal ph for soil and water for this plant is on the acidic side. Like many succulents, while they will tolerate higher ph, will fare better if grown in slightly acidic soil. We use a mix of Colorado River water that at times has a high ph up to 8.5. We have learned that adding a half -1 teaspoon of acid per gal. when watering is beneficial.

Additionally we use a high acid lower nitrogen liquid fertilizer. (Dyna-Gro Bloom) is our preference. This aids in holding the true color and aids in preventing the plant from becoming outlandishly thick succulent leaves. This makes for a more graceful appealing appearance.

This plant may be grown in full sun in Southern Ca. coastal regions. We grow it in beds, where the plant is overhead protected from winter rain.

We use imidacloprid (Bayer) sometimes called Merit for insect control. we apply in early spring and whenever the Fall growth spurt begins.

This plant and its hybrids are finding favor among CA's Top Landscape contractors. I am told Several recreational parks have begun using it in their park horticulture design.

Bob

This is magnficent large Mexican plant is one of the largest of the species- it is a blue-green plant up to 1.5' in diameter (perhaps larger) with deeply funneled, smooth edged leaves that are somewhat 'spade' shaped. The colors change depending on the season, with purples, pinks, whitish turquoise etc. showing up. This plant rarely if ever produces offsets, but there are offsetting forms in cultivation. Plants tend to be pricey.

Though it does great in full sun near the coast, inland California summers can be brutal on this poor plant, frying it so severely that it will often expire or die from secondary rot. I prefer these in partial shade when it's over 100F.