Echeveria Runyonii Cristata

Description

The Echeveria Runyonii Cristata, also known as the Topsy Turvy Cristata or Crested Donkey’s Tail, is a truly unique and stunning succulent variety prized for its unusual crested growth and cascading, spoon-shaped leaves. Here’s a breakdown of its characteristics and how to keep it thriving:

Description:

• Leaves: This is where the magic happens! Unlike regular Echeveria Runyonii, the Cristata form develops a flattened and “crested” growth pattern on the central stem. Individual leaves become fused together, creating a wavy, rippled effect along the edges. The leaves themselves are typically a silvery-blue to soft green color and may have a dusty waxy coating (farina). They retain the characteristic spoon-shaped form and curve downwards and inwards, cascading over the pot like the regular Topsy Turvy.

• Size: Echeveria Runyonii Cristata grows similarly to the regular variety, reaching a compact or cascading size of 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm) tall and spreading wider as the leaves drape over the edges of the pot.

• Flowers: During summer or fall, the plant might produce clusters of orange or yellow bell-shaped flowers on tall stalks, adding a touch of contrast to the unique crested foliage. However, flowering is less frequent compared to the regular Echeveria Runyonii.

Growing Tips:

• Light: Echeveria Runyonii Cristata thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sun exposure for extended periods, especially during the hottest part of the day, as this can scorch the leaves. A location near a south-facing window with sheer curtains is ideal. It can tolerate lower light conditions but may have less dramatic cresting and slower growth.

• Water: As a succulent, it stores water in its leaves and prefers to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a major threat. Water deeply only when the soil feels completely dry to the touch, allowing excess water to drain from the pot. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy.

• Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix is essential for Echeveria Runyonii Cristata. You can create your own by mixing regular potting mix with perlite or coarse sand for better drainage.

• Temperature: This succulent enjoys warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C). It cannot tolerate frost and thrives in normal room temperatures.

• Fertilizer: Feeding is not essential but can be done occasionally during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced succulent fertilizer.

Additional Tips:

• Echeveria Runyonii Cristata is a slow-growing succulent, even compared to the regular Topsy Turvy. Be patient and enjoy the unique form as it develops.
• Repot only when the plant outgrows its current container, typically every few years. Choose a pot with drainage holes that’s slightly larger than the root ball. Consider a hanging pot to accommodate the cascading growth habit.
• Propagation can be challenging due to the crested growth, but it can be attempted through offsets (pups) if they form at the base.
• This succulent is generally pest and disease resistant, but keep an eye out for mealybugs or scale, which can be treated with insecticidal soap.

By following these tips, your Echeveria Runyonii Cristata will bring you joy for many years with its unique crested form, cascading spoon-shaped leaves, and occasional summer blooms. Its unusual appearance is sure to be a conversation starter in your succulent collection!