Echeveria 'Medusa' is a captivating hybrid succulent, often attributed to the Calara nursery, renowned for its uniquely shaped leaves that radiate outwards in a way that evokes the serpentine locks of the mythical Medusa. This striking plant is highly sought after by collectors for its dramatic form and often vibrant coloration, making it a standout addition to any succulent enthusiast's collection.
 
Key Features of Echeveria 'Medusa' (Calara Hybrid)
Serpentine Leaves: The most distinctive feature is its numerous, somewhat elongated leaves that often twist, curve, and undulate as they radiate from the center, resembling snakes.
Rosette Formation: Forms a dense and often somewhat irregular rosette due to the twisting nature of the leaves.
Color Variations: Leaf color can vary but often includes shades of green, blue-green, and pink, with the potential for more intense hues depending on light exposure and temperature. Edges may sometimes display contrasting colors.
Textural Interest: Leaves can have a smooth or slightly textured surface, sometimes with a powdery coating (farina).
Offsets (Chicks): Mature plants may produce offsets around the base, allowing for propagation and the formation of clusters.
 
Care for Your Echeveria 'Medusa' (Calara Hybrid)
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its unique form and vibrant colors. Some direct morning sun can be beneficial, but protect from intense afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. Insufficient light can lead to stretching and a loss of the compact shape.
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 significant risk for Echeverias. Reduce watering considerably during the dormant winter months.
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 beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosette to maintain a clean and healthy environment and deter pests. Be careful when removing leaves due to their intricate arrangement.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger and has drainage holes. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Protecting Farina: If your 'Medusa' has a powdery coating, handle the leaves gently to avoid damaging this protective layer. Water from the base of the plant.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids. Inspect the twisted leaves carefully. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods such as insecticidal soap or neem oil.
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): Carefully separate offsets that have developed their own root systems from the mother plant. Allow the cut surfaces to callus over for a day or two before planting them in well-draining soil.
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 top of well-draining soil or slightly bury the callused end. Mist lightly and provide 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 'Medusa' (Calara Hybrid) is a truly captivating succulent, prized for its unique and dramatic leaf structure that evokes the mythical Gorgon. With proper care, its intriguing form and potential for vibrant colors will make it a standout and cherished specimen in 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.