Imagine a striking rosette of thick, fleshy leaves, their surfaces dusted with a powdery, silvery-blue coating that evokes the cool sheen of polished metal. This is Echeveria 'Blue Metal', a captivating succulent hybrid prized for its unique coloration, elegant form, and relatively easy care. A popular choice among succulent enthusiasts, it adds a touch of sophisticated beauty to any collection or arrangement.
 
Key Features
Striking Coloration: Leaves exhibit a distinctive silvery-blue hue, often with hints of pink or purple along the edges, intensified by cooler temperatures or stress.
Rosette Shape: Forms a compact, symmetrical rosette of tightly packed leaves, creating an aesthetically pleasing geometric form.
Fleshy Leaves: Leaves are thick and succulent, designed to store water, contributing to its drought tolerance.
Powdery Coating (Farina): The leaves are covered in a powdery substance called farina, which protects the plant from intense sunlight and water loss. Handle with care as it can be easily smudged.
Relatively Small Size: Typically remains a compact plant, making it ideal for small spaces and container gardening.
Occasional Blooms: Under the right conditions, it can produce tall flower stalks adorned with bell-shaped flowers in shades of orange, yellow, or pink.
 
Care
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from intense afternoon sun, which can scorch 1 the leaves. Insufficient light can lead to etiolation (stretching). 
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix amended with perlite or pumice is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering is a common cause of failure. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures (18-24°C or 65-75°F) during its active growing season. It can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter but should be protected from frost.
Humidity: Tolerates average indoor humidity levels. Avoid overly humid environments, which can promote fungal growth.
 
Maintenance
Handle with Care: Be mindful of the farina on the leaves and avoid touching them unnecessarily to maintain their powdery coating.
Remove Dead Leaves: Gently remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosette to prevent pest infestations and maintain a clean appearance.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Pest and Disease Control: Generally resistant to pests and diseases, but watch out for common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
 
Propagation
Leaf Cuttings: Gently remove a healthy, mature leaf from the rosette, ensuring a clean break. Allow the cut end to callus over for a few days. Place the leaf on top of well-draining soil or slightly insert the cut end. Mist lightly occasionally until roots and a new plantlet form.
Offsets (Pups): Mature Echeveria 'Blue Metal' plants may produce small offsets or "pups" around their base. Once these pups have developed their own roots, they can be carefully separated from the mother plant and potted individually.
Stem Cuttings: If the plant has a stem, a section can be cut and allowed to callus before planting in well-draining soil.
 
Echeveria 'Blue Metal' is a captivating addition to any succulent collection, offering a unique blend of cool, metallic hues and elegant form. Its relatively low-maintenance nature makes it a rewarding plant for both beginners and experienced growers alike, bringing a touch of understated sophistication to indoor and outdoor spaces.
 
 
* 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.