Last updated on August 25th, 2023 at 11:57 am
Echeveria pulidonis succulent, also known as the Pulido’s Echeveria, is an evergreen perennial that belongs to the Crassulaceae family, originating from the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt of central Mexico (specifically Durango and Chihuahua).
It was named in honor of Agustín Pulido, who first collected the plant. It produces fleshy, oblong succulent leaves that are green with red-tinged tips.
Pulido’s Echeveria is a member of the genus Echeveria native to Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Like many members of the succulent family (such as Jade Plants or Aloe Vera), it can survive long periods of drought because of its ability to store water in its leaves and stems. It grows best in full sun, but during the summer, protection from extreme heat is advised because temperatures over 95 degrees F can damage or kill this succulent plant.
Echeveria Pulidonis succulent can add color and texture to your home or garden space, making it worth the time to learn more about it.
Origin and distribution
The natural range of Echeveria pulidonis is Mexico, specifically the states of Hidalgo and Tamaulipas. It is a member of the Crassulaceae family and was first described by German botanist Karl Moritz Schumann in 1895. The species is named for Mexican botanist Inocencio Pulido.
It is found in rocky, well-drained habitats at elevations of 1,600-2,400 m. The succulent produces rosettes that grow to 8 inches wide and has pale green leaves with reddish tips.
Like many members of the genus, it flowers during springtime before its leaves emerge from dormancy; its urn-shaped blossoms are an unusual shade of red and measure about 3 inches long.
Its flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds, which then feed on nectar from the flowers’ prominent tubular base. Despite being native to the tropics, echeveria pulidonis does not tolerate extreme heat or cold and should be grown in warm climates such as southern California or Florida. These plants typically propagate through division or cuttings.
Echeveria pulidonis propagation
Echeveria Pulidonis can be propagated by leaf or stem cuttings. For leaf cuttings, remove a healthy leaf from the mother plant and allow it to callous for a few days before placing it on well-draining soil.
For stem cuttings, remove a 6-inch section of stem from the mother plant and allow it to callous for a few days before placing it on well-draining soil. Plant in moist perlite or cactus mix and keep the soil slightly moist until new growth appears.
Once new growth has appeared, reduce watering frequency. After about six weeks, plants should be ready to transplant into individual containers. Potting mixes that contain 1/3 succulent potting mix and 2/3rds coarse sand work best.
In time, Echeveria Pulidonis produces offsets that can be removed and potted separately.
Echeveria pulidonis care information
These beautiful succulents are native to Mexico and thrive in hot, dry climates. They require very little water and can even tolerate periods of drought. When watering, be sure to allow the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. These plants enjoy full sun but can also tolerate some light shade.
Light requirement
The amount of light your echeveria pulidonis needs will depend on the time of year and where you live. In the spring and summer, this succulent will need more light than in the fall and winter.
If you live in a sunny climate, your echeveria pulidonis will need full sun to partial shade. If you live in a more temperate climate, this succulent will do best in partial sun to partial shade.
Soil/potting mix
This succulent does best in a well-draining soil mix. You can either make your own by mixing together equal parts sand, perlite, and potting soil, or you can purchase a commercial cactus/succulent mix from your local garden center.
If you’re potting your succulent in a terracotta pot, be sure to soak the pot in water for a few hours before planting to help prevent the pot from drying out the soil too quickly.
Bury the roots of your echeveria just below the surface of the soil, spreading them out into an even layer across the bottom of the pot. Add more soil if necessary, so that it covers any bare roots completely.
Echeveria pulidonis watering
Water your Echeveria Pulidonis when the soil is dry to the touch. They are drought tolerant and can handle long periods without water, but will appreciate a good watering when the soil is dry.
When you do water, make sure to water deeply and allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. If you notice your plant starting to wilt, that means it needs water immediately.
Over-watering can also be an issue, so make sure to not water too often.
Fertilizer
Echeveria Pulidonis needs a fertilizer high in phosphorus to help it bloom. A water-soluble fertilizer with an 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 ratio is ideal. Apply the fertilizer to the soil around the plant, being careful not to get any on the leaves.
Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season and once a month during the winter.
Temperature
The ideal temperature for your Pulidonis is between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit. If it gets too cold, the leaves will start to drop and the plant will go into dormancy. If it gets too hot, the leaves will start to turn red or brown and the plant will start to wilt.
The best way to know if your plant is happy is to check the leaves weekly. If they are firm and plump, then your plant is doing well!
Humidity
These plants are native to dry, arid regions and do not require much humidity. In fact, too much humidity can be detrimental to their health. If you live in a humid climate, it is best to grow them in an area with good air circulation. If you must grow them indoors, make sure to use a well-ventilated pot, and do not mist the leaves.
The ideal humidity range is between 30% and 50%. When watering these plants, wait until they show signs of drought before watering again. Keep an eye on the soil, if it feels dry or starts to pull away from the sides of the pot, then it is time to water again.
Pruning
If your plant is looking a little leggy, you can give it light pruning to encourage new growth. Cut back the longest stems by a couple of inches, and you should see new growth within a few weeks. If your plant is getting too big for its pot, you can also give it a more drastic pruning.
Cut the main stem back by half or more, and repot into a larger container. You may want to put some fresh soil in there as well so that the roots have room to grow.
When trimming succulents, never cut them off at ground level. It is important to cut above the joint on the stem. A good rule of thumb is to cut off about 1/3 of the length of the succulent and then provide water immediately after the following trimming.
When to repot
Repotting is generally only necessary every 2-3 years, or when the plant has outgrown its pot.
To tell if your echeveria needs a new pot, gently push on the sides of the current pot, if it slides out easily, it’s time for a new one. If the plant is potbound (roots are matted and circling the bottom of the pot), it will also need to be repotted.
Once the roots have been untangled from the old pot, choose a container that has about two inches more space than the previous container. Finally, water your echeveria well before placing it in the new pot to make sure all of the roots get wet and begin growing into their new home.
Dormancy/Winter rest
Many succulents, including echeveria pulidonis, enter a state of dormancy during the winter months. This is a natural adaptation that helps the plant survive in areas with cool winters and little rainfall.
During dormancy, the plant will stop growing and its leaves may fall off. The best way to care for a dormant succulent is to allow it to rest in a cool, dry place with plenty of airflows.
Watering should be reduced during this time, as too much water can rot the plant. Check your plants once or twice a month to make sure they are not rotting on the bottom. If you see any signs of rot, carefully remove affected leaves.
Echeveria pulidonis flower & fragrance
The flowers of the Echeveria Pulidonis are a beautiful pink color. They have a very light fragrance that is barely noticeable. The blooms are small, but they are produced in great quantities. The plant can bloom several times throughout the year.
Growth rate
The growth rate of Echeveria Pulidonis is impressive, and it can double in size every two years. If you live in an area with a longer growing season, it may even triple in size!
This succulent is perfect for those who want a fast-growing plant that they can enjoy for many years to come.
Toxicity
Echeveria pulidonis is not toxic and therefore considered safe around pets and children. However, care should still be taken in case of allergy.
USDA hardiness zones
Echeveria pulidonis thrives best in USDA hardiness zones 8 and up. They can be grown indoors year-round if you live in a colder climate.
These succulents are drought-tolerant, which makes them great for those living in a dry environment. If you decide to plant your echeveria outdoors, be sure to do so during the warmer months and give it plenty of sunlight for optimal growth.
Pests and diseases
Despite being a tough and resilient plant, the echeveria pulidonis is susceptible to mealybugs and other pests. If you notice any pests on your plant, it’s important to act quickly and remove them before they have a chance to do serious damage.
The best way to prevent pests and diseases is to keep your plant healthy and happy by giving it the proper care it needs. A little bit of effort goes a long way when it comes to gardening!
