Synonyms:

No synonyms are recorded for this variety name.

Habitat:

Echeveria setosa var. rundelli f. crestata is a nursery cultivar resulting from a genetic mutation, so it doesn’t exist in nature. Echeveria setosa var. rundelli, instead, is native to southern Mexico, in particular to mountains of Oaxaca and Puebla.

Description:

Echeveria setosa var. rundelli f. crestata is the crested form of a variety of Echeveria setosa, “rundelli”. Echeveria setosa var. rundelli is a distinctive variation of the Echeveria setosa. It is a low rosette-forming succulent, displaying a tendency of producing offsets from the base and readily creating compact mounds. The plant is almost stemless, contributing to its distinctive appearance. The leaves of this variety are small, densely packed, and spatulate-shaped, exhibiting a convex structure on both sides. They possess a glaucous hue and, during winter, may undergo a captivating transformation, displaying green-red coloring. The leaves are almost glabrous, with the distinctive feature of a tuft of glistening hairs at their tips, adding to the overall charm of Echeveria setosa var. rundellii. This unique combination of characteristics makes it a sought-after and captivating addition to succulent collections. The crested form conserves the characteristics of the leaves of the original species, though changing from the point of view of the general aspect. Crestation is a phenomenon, probably caused by a genetical mutation, in which the cellular division is significantly altered and cells are produced only in two opposite direction (fasciation). All this results in flattened or fan-shaped stems. In the case of Echeveria setosa var. rundelli f. crestata, the crestation regards the rosettes, which become flattened, slightly fan-shaped. Crestation alters the plant’s capacity to bloom, so Echeveria setosa var. rundelli f. crestata doesn’t produce fertile flowers.

Cultivation:

Echeveria setosa var. rundellii f. crestata, like all crested forms, is not the easiest succulent to grow. However, by following a few simple tips, you will obtain good results, as Echeverias are tough plants in general.
Echeveria setosa var. rundellii f. crestata exhibits its most vibrant colors and distinctive shape when exposed to ample light. Adequate brightness is crucial to prevent the “stretching” phenomenon often observed in Echeverias, a condition resulting from low light or excessive fertilization that leads to weak and pale growth. When transitioning these plants from lower light conditions to full sun, caution is advised to avoid sun scorch, particularly during intense summer sunlight. It is advisable to ensure plants are well-watered before such a move, preferably on a cloudy day. Echeveria setosa var. rundellii f. crestata can endure prolonged dry periods and withstand drought without requiring frequent watering. However, optimal growth occurs when the plant receives sufficient moisture during its growing season, while avoiding waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. To facilitate quick drainage, cultivating this variety in a highly porous soil is essential. Overhead watering, especially in humid conditions during winter, should be avoided. Being shallow-rooted, Echeveria setosa var. rundellii f. crestata benefits from a soil mix containing ample organic matter. Providing enough root space is crucial for promoting optimum growth. Slow-release fertilizers with low to moderate nitrogen content, incorporated into the potting mix, are generally suitable for the spring and summer growing seasons. Additional fertilizer applications are typically unnecessary until spring. Ensuring good air movement is vital to minimize the risk of pests and diseases. Additionally, it’s essential to avoid excessive humidity, particularly in cool winter conditions, for successful cultivation of Echeveria setosa var. rundellii f. crestata in a nursery environment. Although this variety can tolerate light frosts, the ideal temperature range during the summer growing season is between 5-25°C. Cooler autumn temperatures often intensify the foliage colors, surpassing those observed during the active summer growing season. Aphids are known to be attracted to this plant, as is common with flowering Echeverias.

Propagation:

Propagation of Echeveria setosa var. rundellii f. crestata is commonly done through cuttings in the spring. When the stem of the plant becomes excessively tall, a simple and effective method is to cut the top rosette along with a portion of the stem and plant it. This severed rosette will quickly establish roots, facilitating the creation of a new, independent plant. Simultaneously, the remaining stem devoid of the rosette will soon sprout new buds, which can be utilized for further propagation. This method ensures the continued vitality of the original plant while generating new individuals for expansion or sharing. The optimal time for taking these cuttings is from April to July, coinciding with the active growth period of the plant. During this timeframe, the succulent is more responsive to propagation efforts, resulting in successful establishment and growth of new plants from the cuttings. This straightforward propagation technique allows enthusiasts to easily multiply and share the unique and attractive features of Echeveria setosa var. rundellii f. crestata.

Curiosity:

Echeveria setosa has been a longstanding presence in various collections, and its popularity stems from the abundant, dense covering of short, white hairs. This distinctive feature has led to the creation of numerous hybrids. For instance, the combination of Echeveria harmsii and Echeveria setosa resulted in the hybrid known as Echeveria ‘Set-Oliver’.

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