The Echeveria Baron Bold is a medium to large-sized horticultural variant, and no matter how it is cared for, it will grow taller. The stems of the Echeveria Baron Bold plant are relatively thick and gradually elongate as they grow taller. The leaves are densely arranged in a lotus shape, with a diameter of up to 20 centimeters. The leaves are oval-shaped with a slightly wavy edge, and the leaf surface of the plant is irregularly raised with protruding tubercles. The leaf color ranges from light green to purple-red, with new leaves being lighter and older leaves darker. Under strong light or during periods of large temperature fluctuations or low temperatures in winter, the leaves turn green to purple-red, with slight reddening of the leaf tips and edges, and the tubercles on the older leaves and leaf surfaces become purple-red. Under weak light, the leaf color is light green, the leaves become narrower and longer, and may also become very thin. The leaf surface of the Echeveria Baron Bold is covered with a faint white powder, and after the white powder falls off the older leaves, they become smooth. The older leaves of the growing Echeveria Baron Bold tend to curl downward slightly.
Under sufficient sunlight, the leaves of the Echeveria Baron Bold will turn red, especially the tubercles. During the flowering season in summer, the inflorescence is cone-shaped, with flower stalks about 20 centimeters long. The flowers are bell-shaped with five petals, forming a five-pointed star shape, with outer petals in orange-red and inner petals and stamens in yellow, similar to most flowers of the Sedum genus.
Growing Environment:
Overall, the Echeveria Baron Bold is relatively easy to care for. Pay attention to providing adequate light and water. If there is insufficient light or too much water, the tubercles will become less prominent, while with more sunlight and controlled watering, the tubercles' characteristics will be fully evident. It is recommended to maintain full sunlight exposure, apply minimal fertilizer, provide plenty of sunlight, and avoid excessive humidity and waterlogging.
Sunlight:
The Echeveria Baron Bold must be placed in an environment with ample sunlight. During summer, if the temperature does not exceed 35°C, shading is not necessary. The more sunlight it receives, the more prominent the tubercles on its leaves become. Conversely, if there is insufficient light, the Echeveria Baron Bold may become stretched out, with fewer tubercles on its leaves, and eventually may lose them altogether.
Repotting:
As a large succulent variety, the Echeveria Baron Bold grows relatively quickly, so it is best to repot it every 1-2 years. The diameter of the pot should be 2-3 centimeters larger than the spread of its leaves to promote better growth. Coarse pottery pots with drainage holes at the bottom or purple clay pots are preferred for repotting.
Watering:
The Echeveria Baron Bold also prefers a relatively dry growing environment, so it is important to pay attention to moisture levels. When the potting soil is not completely dry, it is advisable not to water it to avoid issues such as stretching and leaf curling. During periods of high temperatures in summer, water should be controlled, and water should be applied sparingly along the edge of the pot every two weeks or so. Avoid watering excessively in high temperatures, as this can lead to root rot and black rot in the soil. Overall, like other succulents, as long as the Echeveria Baron Bold receives sufficient light and is watered appropriately, it will naturally thrive.
Soil:
The Echeveria Baron Bold does not have high soil requirements but prefers fertile soil. It is not recommended to use pure granular soil, as the large plant size and root development require sufficient nutrients. Pure granular soil may cause the leaves to become shorter and thinner, and the lotus shape may not be full. Instead, a mixture of peat, coal slag, and river sand can be used for soil preparation, or garden soil mixed with loam can also be used. Additionally, adding river sand to the soil can help maintain soil aeration.
Fertilization:
During the growth period, apply well-rotted liquid fertilizer every half month and spray a phosphorus-potassium foliar fertilizer once. Stop fertilizing during the dormant period. Be careful not to apply too much fertilizer at once to avoid causing serious damage.
Soil Requirements: The Echeveria Baron Bold's soil should be a mixture of peat, coal slag, and river sand. Additionally, clean river sand can be spread on the soil surface to maintain soil aeration.
Light Requirements: Throughout the year, except in summer when partial shading is necessary, the Echeveria Baron Bold can receive full sunlight. Only with sufficient sunlight will the leaves be colorful, the tubercles more numerous, the plant more compact and beautiful, and the leaves thicker. If there is too little sunlight, the leaves will be lighter in color, arranged loosely, and thinner.
Watering Requirements: When watering the Echeveria Baron Bold succulent, wait until the medium is somewhat dry before watering again. The watering principle is to ensure thorough watering when watering, and each time water should not be excessive to avoid waterlogging. Additionally, apply slow-release fertilizer once every quarter.
Summer Maintenance: If the temperature in summer exceeds 35°C, gradually reduce watering and place the Echeveria Baron Bold in bright, indirect light. During the entire summer dormancy period, water sparingly or not at all, and resume watering around mid-September when temperatures decrease.
Winter Maintenance: If the temperature in winter can be maintained above 0°C, watering is acceptable. If the temperature drops below 0°C, watering should be stopped to prevent frost damage. However, in winter, it is not advisable to completely withhold water; a small amount of water should be given to maintain plant moisture.