Echeveria agavoides, commonly referred to as the Lipstick Echeveria, is a popular succulent native to Mexico. It forms rosettes of fleshy, pointed leaves in shades of green to reddish-brown, with red edges that deepen in color when exposed to bright light.
In the summer, it produces tall stems topped with bright orange-red flowers.
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About Echeveria agavoides
Botanical Name | Echeveria agavoides |
Common Name | Lipstick Echeveria |
Family | Crassulaceae |
Plant Type | Succulent |
Origin | Mexico |
Maintenance | Low |
Height | 6 inches |
Width | 6-12 inches |
Light | Bright, Indirect Light |
Bloom season | Spring, Summer |
Water needs | Low, Moderate |
Soil | Well-Drained, Loamy |
Tolerant | Drought |
Toxicity | Non-toxic |
Hardiness (USDA) | 9-12 |
Echeveria agavoides Care
Light
Echeveria agavoides need bright light, but not direct sunlight, to thrive. You can grow it in either full or partial sun. If you want to keep the colors of your plant vibrant, provide bright light with some direct sun exposure during the day. If you want to keep your Echeveria compact and bushy, then provide it with low light and little exposure to direct sunlight.
Soil
The soil needs to be well-draining and slightly acidic. You can make your own potting mix by mixing sand and perlite, or you can buy a premade one from your local gardening center.
Water
Echeveria agavoides require water when the soil starts to dry out between watering sessions. Water until it spills out the drainage holes in the bottom of your pot, then allow the top few inches of soil to dry out before watering again.
Temperature
The Echeveria agavoides can tolerate temperatures below 5°C (41°F) for short periods of time, but it will be more resistant if kept above 10°C (50°F). If you live in a cold area and have to overwinter your plant indoors, you may place it in a cool spot with some light shade and low humidity.
Humidity
The Echeveria agavoides can tolerate a humidity level between 50% and 70%, but it will be more resistant if kept below 50%.
Fertilizer
Your plant should be fertilized every two months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at half the recommended strength.
Pruning
This plant does not need to be pruned at all times since it has a very slow growth rate, but if you want to prune it, then make sure that you do so during spring or summer months only when there is no chance of frost or freezing temperatures occurring during this time frame. You also want to ensure that you use sharp pruning shears so that there will be no chance of hurting yourself while pruning these plants as well!
Potting and Repotting Echeveria agavoides
When it comes to potting and repotting Echeveria agavoides, timing is key. The best time to repot this Echeveria is in the spring or fall so that the plant has ample time to recover. Avoid repotting in the winter months, as the plant may not have sufficient time to recover before the colder temperatures set in.
After repotting, water your plant lightly and place it in an area that receives indirect sunlight. This will allow it to acclimate to its new environment and ensure that it continues to thrive.
Prepare
How to Repot (Step-by-Step)
- Gently remove the plant from its old container, taking care not to damage the leaves or roots.
- Remove any dead or damaged leaves and trim excessively long roots.
- Fill the new container with a well-draining soil mix.
- Place the Echeveria in the new container and backfill it with soil, gently pressing down to secure the plant.
- Water the plant thoroughly and allow it to drain.
- Place the plant in a location with bright, indirect sunlight and avoid watering for a few days to allow it to acclimate to its new environment.
Propagating Echeveria agavoides by offsets(Step-by-Step)
- Wait for offsets to appear during the late spring or early summer.
- Use a clean, sharp knife to separate the offset from the parent plant.
- Let the offset dry and callus over for several days.
- Plant the offset in a well-draining soil mix.
- Water sparingly and provide bright, indirect light.
Blooms
This plant produces beautiful red and yellow star-shaped flowers on tall, thin stems in the summer. The flowers contrast sharply against the plant’s green, triangular-shaped leaves. They attract pollinators and make a stunning addition to any garden or indoor space.
Toxicity
Echeveria agavoides are generally considered non-toxic, although some sources suggest that they may cause skin irritation in some individuals.
NOTE: This page is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice. The toxicity of an ingested substance varies depending on the amount ingested, the animal’s weight, and its sensitivity to specific allergens. Contact your veterinarian or local animal poison control center immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a toxic substance.
Common Pests
Aphids
Aphids can cause yellowing and distortion of leaves. They are often found in clusters on the undersides of leaves. Use a stream of water to dislodge them, or use insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. They produce a cottony substance that can cover the plant. Treat them by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Spider Mites
Spider mites can cause yellowing and webbing on leaves. They are difficult to see but can be controlled by misting the plant regularly or using insecticidal soap.
AVOID
- Overwatering
- Placing under harsh sunlight
- Using poorly drained potting mediums
- Fertilizing during dormancy