Echeveria strictiflora, the desert savior, is a species of flowering plant in the family Crassulaceae, native to southwestern Texas and to the Chihuahuan Desert of northeast Mexico. Its range consists of several scattered populations, rather than a contiguous range.
Desert savior has moderate disease resistance but is more sensitive to humidity. It becomes susceptible to disease when humidity is high and is prone to root rot during dormancy. In terms of care, Desert savior is drought tolerant yet requires more water during the growing season. Watering should be drastically reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Desert savior is suited to people with some growing experience, though it can be difficult to care for, particularly during dormancy. It is especially appropriate for those who have time to devote to its care over the winter months.
How to keep Echeveria Strictiflora.
Light
Originating in arid areas, Desert savior performs best in full sun; its natural habitat features intense sunlight and little shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, providing some flexibility in its growth.
Temperature
While Desert savior can tolerate some heat, it predominantly does best in cooler seasons and becomes dormant in the summer. In hot summer temperatures, provide shade to prevent scorching from intense sunlight. Watering should be reduced or paused during the hottest part of the season to avoid root rot. Desert savior shows vigorous growth in winter and spring. As long as temperatures do not drop too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
For Desert savior, light applications of fertilizer 1-2 times a year during the growing season are enough. Do not fertilize in winter and summer when it is dormant. Use less fertilizer on repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before fertilizing. Fertilizing promotes healthy growth and encourages blooms.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Desert savior, pick a pot slightly larger than the current one that has good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus soil mix. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, brush off excess soil, and plant it at the same depth. Wait a few days before watering so any root injuries can heal. Repot in spring or fall and place it in a brightly lit location.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Echeveria
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 0 cm to 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 15 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Pale Green
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Mexico
