Echeveria purpusorum is a succulent plant in the Crassulaceae family and the Echeveria genus. It features rosette-shaped fleshy leaves arranged tightly, resembling a lotus flower. The leaves are broad-ovate to slightly triangular-ovate, with a pronounced keel-like ridge on the back. Each leaf is about 3–4 cm long and 3 cm wide, tapering to a sharp point at the tip. The foliage is grayish-green with reddish-brown spots. Growth is slow, and the plant remains relatively small in size throughout the year.
Characteristics
Leaves: Thick and fleshy, arranged in tight rosettes. They are dark green with purplish-brown speckles. During cooler seasons or when exposed to significant temperature differences between day and night, the leaves darken, and the edges turn reddish.
Flowers: Blooms appear in late spring, with flower stalks extending up to 30 cm. The bell-shaped flowers are red with yellow tips, creating a vibrant and striking appearance.
Growth: This is a slow-growing, perennial succulent that thrives in cooler seasons and becomes dormant in high summer temperatures.
Cultivation Requirements
Light: Full sunlight is essential for vibrant colors and compact growth. Insufficient light leads to pale gray-green leaves, loose rosette structures, and diminished aesthetic appeal. Gradually increase light exposure when moving from low-light to high-light environments to avoid sunburn.
Soil: Use well-draining sandy soil, ideally a mix of peat and coarse-grained soil in a 1:1 ratio.
Watering: Water thoroughly once the soil is nearly dry. Overwatering should be avoided, especially in high humidity or cold environments. During summer dormancy or when temperatures exceed 30°C (86°F), reduce watering and ensure proper ventilation. In winter, withhold watering when temperatures fall below 5°C (41°F).
Temperature: Tolerates temperatures as low as -4°C (24.8°F) indoors, but prolonged exposure to cold can damage the growing tips. Ideally, maintain a temperature above 10°C (50°F) in winter.
Fertilizer: During the growing season (September to June), apply a diluted succulent fertilizer monthly. Stop fertilizing during summer dormancy.
Ventilation: Ensure good airflow to prevent fungal infections, especially during hot and humid conditions. Avoid water pooling in the leaf axils.
Propagation
Stem Cutting:
Cut a healthy stem, ensuring a clean and flat cut.
Allow the cut end to heal before planting it in a slightly moist propagation medium.
Place in a semi-shaded area, and roots should develop in about three weeks. Once roots form, begin light watering.
Leaf Propagation:
Select a fully intact, mature leaf.
Let the leaf dry in a shaded area to heal its cut end.
Place it on slightly moist soil; new roots and shoots will emerge at the cut end within 15–20 days. As the small rosette develops, transplant it into a small pot when sufficiently large.
Additional Care Tips
Avoid frequent changes in the plant’s environment, as Yamato-nishiki adapts slowly.
During summer dormancy, keep the plant in a ventilated, shaded area and reduce watering to prevent root rot.
Winter care involves maintaining dry soil and providing sufficient light to ensure healthy growth.
Keep the plant sheltered from prolonged rain exposure to avoid rot.
Conclusion
Echeveria purpusorum is a relatively low-maintenance and visually appealing succulent. With proper care, its unique colors and textures will thrive, making it a delightful addition to any succulent collection.