Echeveria: Hen-and-Chicks Succulents for Sunny Windows

Botanical Name: Echeveria species

Rosettes 2–6 inches across on short stems. Fleshy blue-green leaves red-tinged in sun. Handle gently — leaves break easily. Early summer: bell-shaped flowers on pink stems (pinch when faded). Produces abundant offsets ("chicks") — propagate when crowded.

Varieties and Winter Care

E. fimbriata: upright, purplish-green leaves, red/orange late summer blooms. Prefers cooler winter, not cold-hardy. Bring in below 55°F (13°C). Countless varieties available — all easy. Spectacular in dish gardens with other succulents.

Quick Reference: Echeveria Care

• Origin: Southwestern U.S. & Mexico
• Height: 2–4 in (5–10 cm)
• Light: Bright with some direct sun
• Water: Lightly moist spring–fall; sparing winter. Water soil, not rosette (rots easily).
• Humidity: Average room
• Temperature: Spring/summer: 65–80°F (18–27°C). Fall/winter: 55–75°F (13–24°C).
• Soil: Cactus mix or equal parts sharp sand + all-purpose
• Fertilizer: 2-7-7 liquid every 2 weeks spring–fall, diluted by half
• Propagation: Offsets cut and potted. Leaf cuttings spring/summer: dry 24 hrs, push cut end into moist mix. No plastic cover (rots).