Echeveria 'Claudia' Rose

🌿 The Echeveria 'Claudia' is a stunning rosette-forming succulent from the Crassulaceae family, native to the semi-arid regions of Mexico. This cultivar showcases plump, spoon-shaped leaves arranged in tight geometric patterns that transition from soft jade green to peachy-rose tones when exposed to bright light and cooler temperatures. It's an excellent choice for beginners due to its forgiving nature and minimal water requirements. Here's something fascinating: Echeveria leaves are covered in a natural waxy coating called farina that protects them from intense sun and helps retain moisture—touching the leaves can remove this protective layer, so it's best to admire them without handling.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This compact succulent grows in a rosette formation, typically reaching 4 to 6 inches across at maturity. The fleshy leaves are rounded and slightly pointed at the tips, creating an elegant layered appearance. Leaf colour shifts dramatically based on light exposure—shaded plants remain predominantly green, while those receiving ample sunlight develop gorgeous peachy-pink and coral hues along the leaf margins. The surface has a smooth, almost powdery texture thanks to the protective farina coating, giving the plant a frosted appearance that catches light beautifully.
FLOWER DETAILS
During late spring and early summer, Echeveria 'Claudia' produces arching flower stalks that emerge from the centre of the rosette, reaching 8 to 12 inches tall. The bell-shaped blooms are coral-orange with yellow interiors, arranged along one side of the stalk in a graceful curve. These flowers have no noticeable fragrance but add a cheerful pop of colour that contrasts nicely with the pastel foliage. The plant typically flowers once yearly when mature and receives adequate light during winter months. To encourage blooming, provide a cooler rest period in winter with temperatures around 10-13°C and reduce watering, then gradually increase light and warmth as spring approaches.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect light to full sun for 4-6 hours daily. Southern or western windows work best. Insufficient light causes stretching and loss of colour.
💧 Water: Water deeply when soil is completely dry, typically every 2-3 weeks in summer, monthly in winter. Use the soak-and-dry method—water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then let soil dry completely before the next watering.
🌡️ Humidity: Thrives in low humidity, 30-40% is ideal. Tolerates typical indoor conditions without issue.
🪴 Soil: Fast-draining cactus or succulent mix. Add perlite or coarse sand if using standard potting soil to improve drainage.
🏺 Potting: Shallow terracotta or ceramic pots with drainage holes work best. Choose a pot 1-2 inches wider than the rosette. Repot every 2-3 years in spring.
🌱 Growth rate: Slow to moderate. Expect 1-2 inches of growth per year. Mature size is typically 4-6 inches wide and 3-4 inches tall.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly during spring and summer with diluted succulent fertilizer at half strength. No fertilizer needed in fall and winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: Yes, non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe for homes with curious pets.
WHERE TO PUT IT
The Echeveria 'Claudia' thrives on sunny windowsills in kitchens, living rooms, or home offices where it receives several hours of direct morning or afternoon sun. It's perfect for south or west-facing windows, bright desks, or as part of a succulent arrangement on a patio table during warmer months. These plants also look stunning in shallow dish gardens or grouped with other succulents. Avoid placing them in bathrooms or other high-humidity areas, as excessive moisture can lead to rot. Keep away from dark corners or rooms without natural light, as insufficient brightness causes the plant to lose its compact form and vibrant colouring.