The Echeveria agavoides 'Lipstick' is a captivating succulent prized for its striking appearance. This plant forms a compact rosette of fleshy, pointed leaves that are typically a vibrant apple-green to yellowish-green. The real showstopper is the vivid crimson to red margins that adorn each leaf, intensifying in color when the plant is exposed to more sunlight or cooler temperatures. This bold red edging gives it the common name 'Lipstick Echeveria' or 'Red Edge'.  
 
Resembling a miniature Agave due to its triangular leaf shape and sharp terminal spine, the Echeveria agavoides 'Lipstick' is a relatively small succulent, generally reaching about 15 cm in height and spreading up to 30 cm in width as it matures and produces offsets. It tends to grow in tight clumps of individual rosettes. Unlike some other Echeverias, it has a somewhat glossy, almost waxy leaf surface rather than a powdery coating.  
 
In late spring to early summer, mature plants produce attractive flower spikes that can reach up to 25 cm tall. These spikes bear bell-shaped flowers that are typically pinkish-red with bright yellow tips, adding another layer of visual interest. These flowers are known to attract pollinators like hummingbirds.  
 
Caring for an Echeveria agavoides 'Lipstick' is generally straightforward, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced succulent enthusiasts:
Light: This succulent thrives in bright, indirect sunlight to full sun. More sun exposure will enhance the intensity of the red leaf margins. However, be cautious of intense afternoon sun, especially in hot climates, as it can cause sunburn. Indoors, a south or west-facing window is ideal, and supplemental grow lights can be beneficial during darker months.  
Water: Like most succulents, the Echeveria agavoides 'Lipstick' prefers infrequent but thorough watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent overwatering and the risk of root rot. During the active growing season (spring and summer), you might water every 2-3 weeks, reducing frequency in the dormant winter months.  
Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial. A commercial cactus or succulent mix is ideal. You can also create your own by mixing regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.  
Temperature and Humidity: This Echeveria prefers warm temperatures between 15°C and 24°C and is not frost-tolerant (hardy in USDA zones 9-12). It thrives in low to medium humidity (30-40%). Avoid placing it in overly humid environments like bathrooms or kitchens.  
Fertilizer: Echeveria agavoides 'Lipstick' does not require heavy feeding. A light application of a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer once in the spring or summer during the active growing season is sufficient.
 
Propagation: This plant can be easily propagated through offsets (small plantlets that grow around the base of the mother plant), leaf cuttings, or stem cuttings. Offsets can be gently removed and replanted after allowing them to dry for a day or two. For leaf cuttings, a healthy leaf can be twisted off the stem, allowed to callous over for a few days, and then placed on well-draining soil to root. Stem cuttings should also be allowed to callous before planting.  
 
Maintenance: Minimal pruning is needed, mainly to remove any dead or damaged leaves. Repotting is generally only necessary every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container, ideally during the spring or summer.  
 
With its striking colors and relatively easy care, the Echeveria agavoides 'Lipstick' is a wonderful addition to any succulent collection, rock garden, or container arrangement, providing a vibrant touch of color and unique texture.
 
 
* 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.