Painted Lady
echeveria derenbergii
Also known as: ["Painted Lady Echeveria"]
Overview
A small, rosette-forming succulent with pale green leaves tipped in pink and yellow, known for its striking appearance.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Echeveria |
| Botanical Name: | Echeveria derenbergii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot near bright, sunny window or outdoor garden in a well-drained 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 waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or pumice.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; remove only dead, yellowing, or diseased leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 6–8 hours/day; 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 east-facing windows for ideal light; move to shaded areas during peak summer heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days in spring and fall, every 10–14 days in winter, every 5–7 days in summer
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid wetting the rosette.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; use a mix with inorganic components for aeration.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers cooler nights; tolerates mild frost but best kept above 40°F (4°C).
Avoid drafty areas; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop feeding in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy leaf/stem.
- Let cut end dry for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (60–70%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Leaf cuttings: 4–6 weeks to root; stem cuttings: 2–4 weeks to root, 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Do not overwater cuttings; use clean tools to prevent rot; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Gently pull off dead leaves by hand or use clean, sharp scissors for larger removals.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Clean hands or sharp, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; remove gently; sterilize tools; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 5-inch); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid rosette wetting; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even saturation; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to every 3–4 weeks; increase slightly in summer heat but avoid waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or purpling leaves in cold; wilting or leaf drop in heat; stunted growth in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil stays wet; leaves may become brittle or discolored.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop sunburn spots; growth may slow; soil may dry too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water more frequently but still allow drying between waterings.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
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 derenbergii is non-toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEcheveria derenbergii is non-toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEcheveria derenbergii is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Echeveria derenbergii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight.
Q: Is Echeveria derenbergii toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in spring an |
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