The Echeveria agavoides 'Ebony' is a highly sought-after succulent admired for its striking appearance. A cultivar of Echeveria agavoides, this plant originates from Mexico and is prized by collectors for its dramatic coloration and elegant form.  
 
Appearance
This Echeveria forms a tight, symmetrical rosette that can grow to about 15-20 cm in diameter and height. Its fleshy, triangular leaves are typically a pale grey-green, but the defining characteristic is the vivid dark red to almost black margins and tips, which intensify with increased sunlight and cooler temperatures. In some specimens, this dark coloration can extend down the entire top half of the leaf, creating a truly captivating look. The leaves are also tipped with a small, pointed spine, giving it an appearance somewhat reminiscent of an Agave, hence its species name. In late winter to spring, it produces slender stalks bearing small, bell-shaped flowers that are typically reddish-pink with yellow tips.  
 
Care
The Echeveria agavoides 'Ebony' is generally considered easy to care for, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced succulent enthusiasts. Here are some key care requirements:
Light: This succulent thrives in bright light and can tolerate full sun, which will enhance its dark coloration. Indoors, a sunny windowsill is ideal. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial to prevent scorching.
Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial to prevent root rot. A mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents, or a blend of potting soil with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand, works well. Ensure pots have drainage holes.  
Watering: Like most succulents, the 'Ebony' prefers a "soak and dry" approach to watering. Water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch, and then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Reduce watering significantly during the winter dormancy period. Overwatering is a common cause of failure.  
Temperature: It is relatively cold-hardy, tolerating temperatures down to around -2°C for short periods. However, it's best to protect it from frost. Ideal temperatures are between 10-25°C.
Fertilizing: During the active growing season (spring and summer), you can feed it sparingly with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically for cacti and succulents, perhaps every 2-4 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the winter.
Pruning: Generally, pruning is not necessary. You can remove any dead or damaged leaves from the base of the rosette to improve airflow and prevent potential pest issues. Spent flower stalks can also be removed.  
 
Propagation
Echeveria agavoides 'Ebony' can be propagated in a few ways, although it is noted to be a slower offsetter compared to some other Echeverias:  
Offsets (Pups): As the plant matures, it may produce small offshoots, or "pups," around the base. These can be carefully separated from the mother plant once they have developed their own roots and can be potted independently.  
Leaf Cuttings: While possible, propagation from leaf cuttings can be slow and have a lower success rate with this cultivar. Select a healthy, mature leaf, allow the cut end to callous over for a few days, and then place it on well-draining soil or suspend it just above the soil until roots and a new plantlet form. Keep the soil lightly moist.  
Stem Cuttings: If the plant develops a stem, it can be cut and rooted after allowing the cut end to callous.  
 
Noteworthy Aspects
The intensity of the dark coloration on the leaf margins is directly influenced by the amount of sunlight the plant receives and the temperature, with more intense colors typically appearing in bright light and cooler conditions.
This Echeveria is a popular choice for adding architectural interest to succulent arrangements, rock gardens, and container plantings.
It is generally considered to be relatively pest and disease-resistant, especially when grown in appropriate conditions with good airflow and proper watering.
 
The Echeveria agavoides 'Ebony' is a truly captivating succulent that offers dramatic color and an elegant form, making it a prized addition to any succulent collection.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide.  Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.