Echeveria runyonii ‘Topsy Turvy’: Growing and Care Guide

Echeveria runyonii ‘Topsy Turvy’, is a popular succulent native to Mexico. It forms rosettes of fleshy, gray-green leaves that curve upward and inward, giving it a unique, upside-down appearance.

In the summer, it produces tall stems topped with clusters of pink to red flowers.

About Echeveria runyonii

Botanical Name	Echeveria runyonii ‘Topsy Turvy’
Family	Crassulaceae
Plant Type	Succulent
Origin	Mexico
Maintenance	Low
Height	8-12 inches
Width	8-12 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 runyonii Care

Light

Echeveria runyonii requires bright indirect light to direct sunlight. It grows well in partial shade but will not thrive in complete shade. The succulent should be moved to a sunnier location if it starts to grow leggy or tall.

Soil

Like most Echeveria, this one also like it’s soil to be well-drained and sandy, with some organic material added to keep it from becoming too dry or compacted over time. If you are using a potting mix, make sure it’s mixed with perlite to increase drainage properties.

Water

Water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch, but avoid letting the plant sit in wet soil for long periods. Water with caution because this plant does not like to be over-watered. Ensure that water only touches the soil and does not pool on the leaves.

Temperature

The ideal temperature range for this Echeveria is between 25 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit (°F). In areas where temperatures remain above 50°F most of the year, you must provide extra protection for your Echeveria. Bring it indoors during the hottest months of the year, or place it in an unheated greenhouse or sunroom.

Humidity

The humidity requirements for Echeveria runyonii vary depending on whether it is indoors or outdoors. Indoor plants should be kept in low humidity conditions at around 40 percent relative humidity.

Fertilizer

You should fertilize your Echeveria runyonii plant once a month during the summer months and not at all during the winter months. We recommend using a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20)

Pruning

Echeveria runyonii is a plant that requires very little pruning. If your plant begins to look leggy, simply remove the bottom leaves that have turned brown and yellow. This will allow new leaves on higher-up branches of your plant to grow stronger and healthier.

Potting and Repotting Echeveria runyonii

To ensure the health of your Echeveria runyonii, repot it when the roots have become rootbound or are growing out of the drainage holes in the pot. This is typically every two to three years. When choosing a new pot, select one that is slightly larger than the previous pot, and remember to use a well-draining soil mix formulated for succulents.

Prepare

How to Repot (Step-by-Step)

1. Gently remove the plant from its old container, taking care not to damage the leaves or roots.
2. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and trim excessively long roots.
3. Fill the new container with a well-draining soil mix.
4. Place the Echeveria in the new container and backfill it with soil, gently pressing down to secure the plant.
5. Water the plant thoroughly and allow it to drain.
6. 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 runyonii by offsets(Step-by-Step)

1. Look for offsets during the late spring or early summer.
2. Use a sharp, clean knife to separate the offset from the parent plant.
3. Allow the offset to callus over for several days.
4. Plant the offset in a well-draining soil mix.
5. Water sparingly and place in a location with bright, indirect light.

Blooms

This plant produces small, pink, and yellow, star-shaped flowers on tall, thin stems in the spring and summer. The flowers are usually quite small and add a touch of whimsy to the plant’s blue-green leaves. They attract pollinators and create a delightful display when in bloom.

Toxicity

Echeveria runyonii is also non-toxic, meaning it won’t cause any harm to people or animals who come into contact with it.

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 are a common pest of Echeveria runyonii and can be identified by their small size and pear-shaped bodies. They tend to feed on the new growth and tender leaves of the plant, causing leaf curling and stunted growth if left untreated.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs can also infest Echeveria runyonii and can be identified by the white, powdery wax they produce. They tend to feed on the undersides of leaves and can cause yellowing and wilting of affected leaves.

Spider Mites

Spider mites can also be a problem for Echeveria runyonii. They can cause yellowing and browning of leaves and can be identified by the webbing they produce around the affected areas. Regular misting and the use of a miticide can help control these pests.

Common Problems

FAQ