Echeveria 'Topsy Turvy' is a distinctive and widely popular succulent hybrid admired for its uniquely shaped leaves that curve upwards and inwards, creating a somewhat chaotic yet captivating rosette. This readily available and easy-to-care-for plant adds a touch of quirky charm to any succulent collection or arrangement with its unusual form.
 
Key Features of Echeveria 'Topsy Turvy'
Upward-Curving Leaves: The most defining characteristic is its spoon-shaped leaves that dramatically curve upwards and often inwards towards the center of the rosette, sometimes even appearing "inside out."
Dense Rosette: Forms a relatively compact and dense rosette of these uniquely shaped leaves.
Bluish-Green Coloration: The leaves typically exhibit a soft, powdery bluish-green color, often covered in a farina (powdery coating).
Farina (Epicuticular Wax): The powdery white coating on the leaves provides a matte finish and helps protect the plant from sun and water loss. Handle with care to avoid rubbing it off.
Offsets (Chicks): Mature plants readily produce offsets around the base, leading to a clustered growth habit over time and providing easy propagation opportunities.
Orange Flowers: When mature, it can produce tall flower stalks adorned with bell-shaped orange flowers.
 
Care for Your Echeveria 'Topsy Turvy'
Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct morning sun, but intense afternoon sun may scorch the leaves. Adequate light is crucial for maintaining its compact form and vibrant color.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent potting 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 generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to typical household humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Healthy Plant
Handling Farina: Be gentle when handling the leaves to avoid rubbing off the powdery white coating. Water from the base of the plant.
Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosette to maintain a clean and healthy environment.
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.
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): The easiest and most common method. Carefully separate the offsets that grow around the base of the mother plant once they have developed their own roots. 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.
Stem Cuttings: If the plant develops a stem or if a section breaks off, stem cuttings can be rooted. Allow the cut end to callus for several days before planting it in well-draining soil.
 
Echeveria 'Topsy Turvy' is a delightful and readily available succulent that brings a unique and playful aesthetic to any collection. Its easy care and prolific production of offsets make it a rewarding plant for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike.
 
 
* 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.