Echeveria 'Rolly' thrives in sunlight, and frequent exposure to the sun enhances its coloration. However, when temperatures reach 30°C (86°F) in the summer, the plant enters a dormancy period. During this time, it's essential to provide shade and reduce watering. In full sun, the leaves of Echeveria 'Rolly' take on a waxy, glossy, reddish-yellow hue, resembling the appearance of beeswax.
Echeveria 'Rolly' is a unique variety within its genus. The plant easily produces offsets, often forming clumps. The leaves are thick, fleshy, arranged in a rosette, and are oval or heart-shaped with a blunt tip. The surface of the leaves is uneven, with a concave center and raised edges. The leaves are tightly packed in a lotus-like formation, almost hiding the stem. The rosette looks like a delicate, miniature peony flower. Typically, the leaves are green, but in autumn and winter, with greater temperature differences and ample sunlight, the color changes to red or even yellow, with some developing red edges. The surface of the leaves often takes on a waxy, glossy shine, adding to its charm. Echeveria 'Rolly' flowers in the spring.
Growth Conditions
Echeveria 'Rolly' prefers warm, dry environments with plenty of sunlight. It has no distinct dormancy period and grows year-round. Only prolonged exposure to high temperatures may cause a brief slowdown in growth. To avoid etiolation (stretching), provide full sunlight during the growing season.
Care Instructions
Light:
Echeveria 'Rolly' requires full sun for optimal growth throughout the year. It is prone to stretching if it doesn't receive enough light. Ensure the plant gets plenty of sunlight during the growing season.
Watering:
In summer, reduce watering, ensure good ventilation, and provide shade when necessary. Avoid excessive moisture, as the succulent roots can rot easily in constantly wet conditions. In winter, the plant requires little to no water. During spring and autumn, water the plant roughly once every 10 days as temperatures rise. In summer, avoid letting the soil become too dry, as this can hinder growth. Keep the soil slightly moist. After rainy days, ensure that excess water is drained from the pot, and during prolonged rainy periods, bring the plant indoors. A well-draining sandy loam soil is ideal for growing Echeveria 'Rolly'.
Fertilization:
Fertilizing should be minimal, typically only 2-3 times a year. In early March, when flower buds and leaves start to grow, apply fertilizer to promote larger blooms. Another application can be done in late May after the flowers have wilted to replenish nutrients. Use fermented chicken manure water or soybean cake water, diluted to about 30%. Fertilization should be done on sunny days when the soil is slightly dry, and watering should be paused before applying fertilizer. Avoid getting fertilizer on the leaves, and if it happens, rinse the leaves with water immediately.
Propagation:
Echeveria 'Rolly' is primarily propagated through stem cuttings.