Echeveria Pallida Plant Info
Commonly called Argentine echeveria (Echeveria pallida), this favorite succulent is native to Mexico. It’s described as having pale lime green, spoon-shaped leaves in a single rosette form. These leaves sometimes appear translucent, with edges that turn red with proper lighting. Growing Argentine echeveria is similar to growing others in this family. It cannot take winter cold, so if you live in a cool climate, you’ll want to grow this plant in a container. Locate this plant in a bright location, gradually adjusting to full morning sun, if desired. Try to avoid the hot afternoon rays in summer with this plant, as leaf edges may burn and spoil the appearance. Plant into a well-draining, gritty cactus mix. Echeveria in sunny locations need more summer water than many succulents. You’ll want this water to drain off the roots, so make sure your soil drains quickly. Let the soil dry completely before watering again.
Argentine Echeveria Plant Care
As summer growers, echeveria succulent plants can truly enlarge during the season. Argentine echeveria is said to be a moderate grower. There are a couple of quirks to know in order to keep your plant healthy. Don’t let water stay in the rosettes of the plant. Argentine echeveria is slow to put out offsets, but when it does, they may be located throughout the plant. Try to avoid these when watering. Also, remove bottom leaves as they die off. Echeverias are susceptible to pests, including the dreaded mealybug. Dead leaf litter in the pot may encourage them, so keep the soil clear. Repot if needed during summer. Echeveria pallida plant info says the plant may grow tall, hovering above the container on its stem. If this happens with your plant, you may want to cut it back and replant to keep it shorter. Cut a few inches (8 cm.) down the stem with sharp pruners. Remember to let the stem callous over for a few days before replanting it. (Leave the original stem growing in its container and keep it watered.) Treat the stem end with rooting hormone, or cinnamon, and plant into dry, fast draining soil. Withhold water for at least a week, longer if possible. This allows the stem to fully recover and roots to begin sprouting. You’re likely to see babies sprouting on it in a few months. Withhold water during the winter. Feed the Argentine echeveria a time or two during summer. Compost tea is a gentle, organic way to feed these beautiful plants. You may also top dress with compost or worm castings. If these products are not available, feed with a weakened mix of houseplant fertilizer, making sure to water before feeding.
