Orange Echeveria
echeveria harmsii
Also known as: ["Orange Echeveria","Fire and Ice"]
Overview
A striking succulent with rosettes of orange and green leaves, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Echeveria |
| Botanical Name: | Echeveria harmsii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor garden in warm, dry climates
- 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 pumice for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning unless necessary
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
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; use a mix with large particles for aeration; avoid overwatering to prevent soil compaction.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warmer conditions; reduce watering in cooler months.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows or vents; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with diluted cactus fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; stem cuttings are more reliable for Echeveria harmsii.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem or leaf.
- Let the cutting callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Water sparingly until roots develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity until roots form.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio); 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 4–6 weeks to root; stem cuttings typically root in 2–4 weeks and establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humidity dome to maintain moisture; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back leggy stems; cut just above a leaf node or rosette; remove dead leaves at the base.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged leaves, and encourage bushier growth; focus on removing leggy stems and spent flower stalks.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; necessary to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, allowing water to penetrate the root zone; continue until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to every 3–4 weeks; adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) indicate stress; stunted growth can signal cold or heat issues.
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 with bubble wrap; avoid watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting; may lead to sunburn or dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEcheveria harmsii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion of this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEcheveria harmsii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion of this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEcheveria harmsii is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption, though it is not typically used as a food source.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Echeveria harmsii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Echeveria harmsii need full sun?
A: It thrives in bright light but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Echeveria harmsii 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 during activ |
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