Mexican Snowball
Echeveria elegans
The Echeveria elegans is a captivating evergreen succulent that forms tight, rose-shaped rosettes of spoon-shaped, fleshy leaves. These leaves possess a distinct silvery-blue or pale green hue with a powdery farina coating that gives them an ethereal, frosted appearance. Native to the semi-desert regions of Mexico, this plant is celebrated for its structural beauty and its ability to produce arching stalks of pinkish-red flowers tipped with yellow during the late winter and spring.
Light
Full Sun
Water
Low
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
Low
Pet Friendly
This plant is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, making it an excellent choice for pet owners.
Care Guide
Light and Location
Place your Mexican Snowball in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of bright, direct sunlight. Indoors, a south-facing window is preferred. Insufficient light will cause the plant to stretch (etiolate) and lose its compact shape.
Watering Protocol
Adopt the 'soak and dry' method. Water the soil thoroughly until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry out 100% before watering again. Be extremely careful not to let water sit in the center of the rosette, as this can lead to crown rot.
Soil and Potting
Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix, ideally amended with perlite or pumice to ensure rapid drainage. Terracotta pots are recommended as they help moisture evaporate from the soil.
Seasonal Maintenance
During the winter months, the plant enters dormancy. Reduce watering to once every 4-6 weeks. Protect the plant from temperatures below 40°F (4°C) as it is not frost-hardy.
Troubleshooting
If leaves become mushy and translucent, it is a sign of overwatering. If the leaves look shriveled, the plant likely needs a drink. Regularly check the crevices for mealybugs, which are the most common pest for this species.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Liquid succulent-specific fertilizer
Soil
Gritty, fast-draining succulent mix with high inorganic content
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
4-8 inches wide
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, and offsets (pups)