Echeveria potosina 'Crested' is a fascinating mutation of the popular Echeveria potosina, characterized by its unique fan-like or convoluted growth pattern resulting from a crested (cristate) formation of the stem. This unusual growth creates a visually striking and highly sought-after succulent that adds a touch of sculptural artistry to any collection, showcasing a captivating departure from the typical rosette form.
 
Key Features of Echeveria potosina 'Crested'
Crested Growth: The defining feature is the cristate or crested growth pattern, where the apical meristem (growth point) elongates and flattens, resulting in a fan-like, wavy, or convoluted structure rather than a symmetrical rosette.
Varied Crest Forms: The exact shape and form of the crest can vary significantly between individual plants, making each one a unique specimen. It may resemble a brain-like structure, a tightly folded fan, or a series of rolling waves.
Fleshy Leaves: The leaves themselves retain the characteristics of Echeveria potosina, being typically thick, fleshy, and often triangular or lance-shaped. They are usually densely packed along the crested stem.
Coloration: Leaf color can range from shades of pale green to bluish-grey, often with a powdery white coating (farina) that gives them a soft appearance. Stressful conditions like increased sunlight or cooler temperatures can sometimes bring out subtle pink or purple hues along the edges.
Size: The overall size of a crested Echeveria potosina depends on the age and growth pattern, but they generally remain relatively compact, although the crested form can spread horizontally in an intriguing manner.
 
Care for Your Echeveria potosina 'Crested'
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some gentle morning sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch the delicate crested growth. Adequate light is crucial for maintaining its form and coloration.
Soil: Requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent water retention and the potential for rot, which can be a concern with crested forms. A commercial cactus and succulent mix amended with extra perlite or pumice is highly recommended.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering, especially allowing water to sit on the crested folds, should be avoided. Reduce watering significantly 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 important, especially within the dense crested structure, to prevent fungal issues.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Crested Form
Careful Watering: Water from the base of the pot to avoid getting water trapped in the folds of the crest, which can lead to rot.
Protecting Farina: If present, handle the leaves gently to avoid rubbing off the powdery coating.
Removing Dead Leaves: Carefully remove any dead or dried leaves from within the crested structure to maintain good hygiene and prevent pests. Tweezers can be helpful for this.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that can accommodate the unique shape of the crest. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids, which can sometimes hide within the dense folds of the crest. Treat any infestations promptly and carefully.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents. Avoid over-fertilizing.
 
Propagation Methods for Echeveria potosina 'Crested'
Offsets (Lateral Crests): Sometimes, crested forms will produce smaller, lateral crests. These can be carefully separated once they have developed a good size and their own root system (if any). Allow the cut surfaces to callus before planting.
Stem Division: Mature, larger crests can sometimes be carefully divided, ensuring each section has some existing roots. This is a more advanced technique with a higher risk of failure. Allow cut surfaces to callus thoroughly before repotting.
Leaf Cuttings: While Echeveria potosina can be propagated from leaf cuttings, the resulting offspring will typically revert to the non-crested form. Crested forms rarely, if ever, produce crested plants from leaf cuttings.
 
Echeveria potosina 'Crested' is a truly unique and captivating succulent that offers a fascinating departure from the norm. Its sculptural, crested growth makes it a prized possession for collectors who appreciate the unusual and artistic in the plant world. While its care requirements are similar to other Echeverias, extra attention to watering and maintaining good airflow within the crested structure will ensure its continued health and beauty.
 
 
* 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.