Echeveria 'Octans', another captivating 'Calara hybrid', is a stunning succulent celebrated for its distinctive rosette shape and alluring coloration. This hybrid typically exhibits a striking symmetry and a blend of hues that can range from soft pastels to more vibrant tones, making it a sought-after addition for collectors who appreciate unique and visually appealing Echeverias. Its intriguing form and potential for colorful displays make it a standout in succulent arrangements.
 
Key Features of Echeveria 'Octans'
Symmetrical Rosette: Forms a generally tight and well-proportioned rosette of fleshy leaves.
Distinctive Leaf Shape: Leaves are often somewhat elongated and can exhibit a subtle curve or cupping, contributing to the rosette's overall form.
Attractive Coloration: Known for its beautiful color palette, which can include shades of pink, peach, lavender, and blue-green, often with subtle gradients or highlights. Color intensity can vary depending on light exposure and temperature.
Farina (Epicuticular Wax): The leaves are often covered in a delicate powdery coating (farina) that gives them a soft, matte finish and helps protect them. Handle with care to avoid damaging it.
Relatively Compact Size: Typically remains a manageable size, making it well-suited for container gardening and smaller spaces.
Potential for Offsets: Mature and healthy plants may produce offsets or "chicks" around the base, providing a means for propagation.
 
Care for Your Echeveria 'Octans'
Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. To achieve the best coloration, some gentle morning sun or filtered afternoon sun is beneficial. Insufficient light can lead to dull colors and etiolation (stretching).
Soil: Requires well-draining soil 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 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 Flourishing Plant
Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the bottom of the rosette to maintain a clean and healthy environment.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its current 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 'Octans' has farina, handle the leaves as little as possible to avoid damaging this protective layer. Water from the base of the plant.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids. 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 'Octans', a captivating 'Calara hybrid', offers a delightful combination of symmetrical form and attractive coloration, making it a prized addition to any succulent collection. Its relatively easy care and potential for propagation make it a rewarding plant to cultivate and admire.
 
 
* 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.