Echeveria multicaulis, native to Guerrero, Mexico, forms small rosettes atop shrubby stems of firm glossy green leaves that become coppery in winter cold or in strong light. Bell-shaped flowers are reddish with some yellowish tint inside. In habitat, many Echeverias grow on rocky outcroppings at higher altitudes. In this habitat, the water drains quickly away from the roots of the plant, never allowing the plant to remain waterlogged. For this reason, it is essential in cultivation to use a very porous soil, which will allow quick drainage. Bright light is required to prevent "stretching" of Echeverias ("stretching" occurs when a moderately fast growing plant such as an Echeveria, is grown in dim light or over-fertilized, which causes overly lush growth that contributes to weak, pallid plants). Water thoroughly when soil is dry to the touch. Protect from frost.
Growing Tips: Succulent plants require a very quickly draining soil, either with extra drainage material such as sand with all dust and small particles sieved out or one specially developed for cacti and succulent plants. Also beneficial is a mulch of small stones or gravel to assist in drainage around the base of the plant. Water thoroughly only when the soil is quite dry and avoid watering altogether in cooler weather and winter. Use fertilizer sparingly while plants are actively growing. We suggest planting succulent plants in a clay pot, partly for their good drainage, and also to prevent large heavy plants from tipping over while drying out as recommended between waterings.