Origin and Natural Habitat
Echeveria setosa v. ciliata is a variety of this species that is native to Mexico, specifically to the Oaxaca region.
Plant Characteristics
Echeveria setosa v. ciliata is a particularly ‘hairy’ and compact species. It is covered in fine white cilia that contrast well with its green leaves..
Care Guide
Light
It prefers a sunny location in the greenhouse to maintain its shape. This cultivar should therefore be kept under at least 50% shade cloth. If they are being kept outdoors, but not in a greenhouse, then morning sun is suitable.
Soil
Echeveria setosa requires a well-draining soil mixture mainly consisting of organic components. A medium with coco peat is preferred.
Water
This cultivar can be watered well during the warmer months, once the warmer spring weather arrives. However, keep it dry in winter. This variety is prone to rot if it is watered when it is dormant.
Pot size
Echeveria setosa is not an overly large cultivar, and a 10cm pot will be sufficient initially. As it grows larger, it can be moved into 12-15cm pots.
Temperature
Echeveria prefers temperature ranges between 20 – 30°C. It can tolerate 10 – 40°C. Plants are susceptible to frost damage and should not be left unprotected during frost season.
Humidity
Echeveria enjoy some humidity, but make sure that your growing space still has plenty of airflow, especially during winter. Echeveria are prone to rot if exposed to high levels of humidity during dormancy.
Fertilizing
Use a half-strength diluted general liquid fertilizer only during the growing season. Do not fertilize during winter. Alternatively, a small amount of slow-release fertilizer will be sufficient.
Growing season
Echeveria are dormant for in winter, and grow during spring and summer.
Propagation
Echeveria can be propagated from leaves, cuttings and seeds.
Seed germination: Seeds should be sown in early spring. Plant the seeds in a coco peat mix in an airtight container, and cover them with some sifted coco peat. Once most of the seeds have germinated, remove the lid of the container to allow airflow. Gently water the seedlings every few days so that the soil does not dry out. The container should be relatively deep to accommodate their root systems.
Leaves: Gently twist off one of the lower leaves, and place it on top of your usual growing medium. The leaf will eventually make roots after 2-3 weeks. At this point, cover the base of the leaf with some soil. It will then produce plantlets after some time.
Stem propagation: Using a sharp, clean knife, cut an offset of the Echeveria from the main stem. Let this dry for 10 days, then plant it. The best time to propagate is early spring.
