Wavy Echeveria
echeveria shaviana
Also known as: ["Mexican Hens and Chicks","Wavy Echeveria"]
Overview
A rosette-forming succulent with wavy, powdery blue-green leaves and a compact growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Echeveria |
| Botanical Name: | Echeveria shaviana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor garden in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead, diseased, or leggy growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, use a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining succulent or cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warmer conditions; reduce watering in cooler months.
Avoid drafty areas; protect from sudden temperature drops; monitor indoor heating/cooling effects.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; leaf cuttings are simpler and more common for Echeveria.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove healthy leaves.
- Let callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid (50–60%), bright indirect light; protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand; can also use succulent-specific propagation medium.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a rooting hormone powder or gel.
Timeline
Leaf cuttings may take 2–4 weeks to root; new growth appears in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, plump leaves; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; be patient.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems or pull off lower leaves gently; avoid cutting into the main rosette.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and prevent rot; occasional shaping to encourage compact growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears; sterilize tools before use.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged leaves; sterilize tools; prune carefully; dispose of trimmings; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 inches wider); ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to once every 3–4 weeks. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to commercial potting mix; ensure large drainage holes in pots.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf shriveling in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to rot or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting; may lead to sunburn or leaf drop.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but still allow soil to dry; use reflective surfaces to deflect heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEcheveria shaviana is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEcheveria shaviana is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEcheveria shaviana is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion, though it is not typically consumed for culinary purposes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Echeveria shaviana?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Echeveria shaviana need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, indirect light or full sun, but may need protection from intense midday sun.
Q: Can Echeveria shaviana be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for indoor cultivation provided it receives adequate light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
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