Echeveria runyonii is a unique succulent for its broad and thick leaves symmetrically formed in a delicate rosette. Unlike other Echeveria succulents, the pale blue-green leaves won't stress in distinct pink or red color even if the plant gets enough sunlight and temperature stress. However, the edges of the leaves will flush little pink hues, which is very elegant and beautiful. Echeveria runyonii has many famous hybrid succulents, including E. runyonii 'Topsy Turvy,' Echeveria runyonii San Carlos, Tamaulipas, and Echeveria runyonii 'Cook's Pride'.
In the realm of gardening, where schedules are tight and the world whirls at a dizzying pace, planting Echeveria runyonii is like discovering a tranquil oasis amidst the chaos. It thrives on neglect, finding solace in the minimal attention it requires, and in return, it bestows upon its caretaker a sense of calm and natural beauty. Proper care can help these plants thrive and remain healthy, enhancing their beauty and longevity.
How to care for Echeveria Runyonii
1. Potting Mix
The foundation of successful Echeveria runyonii care begins with the right potting mix. Choose a fast-draining mix designed for cacti and succulents with at least a quarter of drainage materials. Combine coarse sand or perlite for drainage and mineral grit that is used to prevent soil compaction with some peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention. Avoid mixes with garden soil, as they can hold too much moisture.
2. Pot Selection
Select pots with drainage holes to prevent water buildup and root rot. Plastic pots are a great choice due to their affordability and lightweight nature. For recycled gardening use, ceramic or cement planters are highly recommended for their excellent breathability of material in summer. If using decorative pots without drainage, plant your succulent in a transparent planter pot that will help you observe the amount of water in the planter pot.
3. Sunlight
Echeveria runyonii thrives in bright, direct sunlight. Provide at least 6 hours of sunshine daily for vibrant and compact growth. For indoor plants, place them near southern or western windows, but introduce new plants gradually to prevent sunburn. Outdoor plants should be positioned in areas with morning sun or dappled afternoon shade to avoid scorching their leaves.
4. Watering
Originally from Mexico, Echeveria runyonii have adapted to these conditions by developing specialized features that allow them to survive in hot and arid environments. They Only water when the potting mix has completely dried out. During the growing season (spring and summer), water every 7-10 days if it's warm. When the succulent enters dormancy in winter, water sparingly every 2-3 weeks. In winter, the leaves dry to wrinkle, indicating that the succulent tells you it is thirsty. You can gently water the succulent on sunny days at noon to reduce the risk of frosting succulents.
5. Temperature
Echeveria runyonii thrives in temperatures between 70-82°F (21-28°C). While they can tolerate brief drops to 30°F (-1°C), prolonged freezing conditions will prove fatal. In cold climates, bring potted Echeveria runyonii indoors before the first frost. Maintain indoor temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) to create ideal growing conditions.
6. Fertilization
While Echeveria runyonii doesn't require excessive fertilization, light feeding during the growing season keeps them healthy. Fertilize them every 2-3 weeks in spring and summer, but avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can lead to leafy growth instead of compact rosettes. Do not fertilize during the dormant winter months when the plant's growth slows.
You may wonder: How to fertilize succulents scientifically.
7. Propagation
Echeveria runyonii can be propagated more easily with leaves. Twist the healthy and complete leaves from the mother succulent and wait for the wound callus for 2-3 days. Then place the leaves on the moist succulent soil and ensure the end of the leaves are exposed to air. In the next two weeks, carefully spray water on the soil surface. When the roots come out, add a layer of topsoil to cover the roots and wait for the new baby to grow.
8. Remove Dead Leaves
Echeveria runyonii is prone to grow fast in active seasons. It is reported that this variety can grow up to 20 inches in diameter. The bottom leaves are quickly consumed to provide enough nutrients for the plant's growth, so you will often find that the bottom leaves of this plant dry out quickly. Gently remove them to maintain the plant's appearance and avoid plant rot. To reduce the number of leaves consumed, replanting E. runyonii every spring with a fresh organic soil mix that can provide enough food for it is recommended. Or, you can apply professional slow-release fertilizer or diluted liquid fertilizer to succulents in active to provide enough nutrients to this plant.
Echeveria runyonii vs Echeveria runyonii variegated
The variegated Echeveria runyonii is also pretty and famous for its delicate appearance and stable genes. The color is more stunning.
Echeveria runyonii variegated has green leaves in the middle with yellow spots on both sides. Its rosette is covered with a thin layer of white powder, just like Echeveria runyonii. With adequate sunlight and temperature stress, the rosette flushes a delicate pink, which is incredibly attractive. However, maintaining Echeveria runyonii variegated is relatively challenging because it can revert to Echeveria runyonii under unstable growth conditions. Despite the relative genetic stability of this variety, succulent reversion is a noteworthy phenomenon.
You may wonder: What is succulent reversion?
Conclusion
Echeveria runyonii is an ideal houseplant choice for those who want a low-maintenance plant. It doesn't require much time or effort to care for, allowing you to enjoy its beauty easily. With the proper care, they can thrive in various environments, making it an excellent addition to any home or office. Due to its elegant blue-green appearance, Echeveria runyonii is a popular choice for succulent arrangements and DIY projects.
