Echeveria 'Mauna Loa' is a striking succulent hybrid admired for its large, dramatic rosettes and often vibrant coloration, reminiscent of the volcanic slopes it's named after. This cultivar typically showcases thick, fleshy leaves with interesting textures and a robust presence, making it a standout specimen in any succulent collection.
 
Key Features of Echeveria 'Mauna Loa'
Large Rosettes: Forms impressive rosettes that can grow quite large compared to many other Echeverias.
Thick, Fleshy Leaves: The leaves are substantial, often broad and somewhat elongated, with a fleshy texture.
Textured Surfaces: Leaves can exhibit interesting textures, such as keels, ridges, or a slightly bumpy surface.
Vibrant Coloration: Known for its potential to display beautiful colors, often in shades of green, blue-green, pink, purple, and sometimes with contrasting edges or highlights, intensifying with light and temperature changes.
Farina (Epicuticular Wax): Many specimens possess a powdery coating (farina) on the leaves, providing a soft, matte finish and protection. Handle with care to avoid damaging it.
Relatively Slow Growing: While the rosettes can become large, the overall growth rate is often moderate to slow.
 
Care for Your Echeveria 'Mauna Loa'
Light: Requires bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its colors and compact form. Some direct morning sun or filtered afternoon sun is usually beneficial. Insufficient light can lead to stretching and dull coloration.
Soil: Needs a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus and succulent mix amended with perlite or pumice is highly recommended.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering is a significant risk. Reduce watering considerably during the winter dormancy period.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to typical household humidity levels. Good air circulation is important.
 
Maintenance for a Healthy Specimen
Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosette to prevent pests and maintain a clean appearance.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger with good drainage. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Protecting Farina: If your 'Mauna Loa' has farina, handle the leaves gently and water from the base to avoid damaging this protective layer.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Generally does not require heavy feeding. A diluted balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied sparingly once or twice during the active growing season (spring and summer).
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Offsets (Chicks): Mature plants may produce offsets around the base, which can be carefully separated once they have developed their own roots. Allow the cut surfaces to callus before planting.
Leaf Cuttings: Select healthy, mature leaves and ensure a clean break from the stem. Allow the cut end to callus for several days. Place the callused leaf on well-draining soil and provide bright, indirect light until roots and new plantlets emerge. This can be a slower process.
Stem Cuttings: If the plant develops a stem, sections can be cut, allowed to callus, and then planted in well-draining soil.
 
Echeveria 'Mauna Loa' is a majestic succulent that commands attention with its impressive size and often vibrant hues. Its relatively straightforward care requirements make it a rewarding addition for succulent enthusiasts who appreciate a bold and beautiful specimen in their 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.