Ghost Echeveria
echeveria lilacina
Also known as: ["Mexican Hens and Chicks","Lavender Echeveria"]
Overview
A striking succulent with powdery blue-lavender leaves and rosette formation, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Echeveria |
| Botanical Name: | Echeveria lilacina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot near a bright, south-facing window or outdoor in a well-drained rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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 cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or pumice for aeration.
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 to moderate, removing 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. Indoors, place near a south or west-facing window with sheer curtains. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use reflective surfaces to boost light; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; water early in the day to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frost but prefers cooler temperatures in winter, down to 40°F (4°C).
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; maintain consistent indoor temps.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets.Offsets are the most reliable method for Echeveria lilacina.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset or stem.
- Let cut end callous for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid (50–60%), and bright indirect light with protection from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use offsets for higher success; let cuttings callous to prevent rot; maintain humidity without overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems or remove leaves at the base. Avoid cutting into the main rosette.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged leaves. Focus on aesthetic and health rather than vigorous shaping.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; remove only necessary parts; avoid over-pruning; clean debris from pot.
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) with drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; 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 for growth.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; avoid overwatering post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without wetting the leaves. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, wilting, stunted growth, or blackened leaves in cold; scorching, leaf drop, or mushy stems in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes root damage, and may lead to fungal infections if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, dehydration, and increased water demand, potentially leading to root rot if overwatered.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation; mist leaves sparingly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEcheveria lilacina is not known to have toxic effects on cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicEcheveria lilacina is not known to have toxic effects on dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicEcheveria lilacina is not known to have toxic effects on humans.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Echeveria lilacina?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Echeveria lilacina need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Q: Can Echeveria lilacina be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors with adequate light and proper drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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