Hens and chicks
Echeveria spp.
Rosette-forming succulent native to Mexico and Central America; prized for fleshy, colorful leaves and compact growth. Prefers bright light and well-draining soil; drought-tolerant.
Pet-Friendly Plant
Toxicity: non toxic
Echeveria are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion may cause mild digestive upset but not severe poisoning.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place in a south- or west-facing window with at least 4–6 hours of bright light daily. Gradually acclimate to stronger outdoor sun to avoid sunburn; provide filtered afternoon shade in very hot climates.
Water
Use the soak-and-dry method: water thoroughly until excess drains, then let the soil dry completely before watering again. Avoid standing water in the saucer and reduce frequency in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Humidity
Prefers low indoor humidity and good airflow. Avoid misting; average home humidity is fine. In humid climates use fast-draining soil and raised pots to reduce moisture around roots.
Temperature
Prefer 5°C–35°C (41°F–95°F). Protect from frost below 5°C and from extended heat above 35°C; move indoors or provide shade during extremes.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Stretched, leggy rosettes (etiolation)
Cause: Insufficient light causing the plant to stretch toward a light source.
Solution: Move to brighter light, prune and re-root healthy rosettes, and gradually acclimate to stronger light to restore compact growth.
Soft, brown base or mushy roots (root rot)
Cause: Overwatering and poor drainage that keep roots wet for long periods.
Solution: Unpot, cut away rotten tissue, let remaining parts dry, repot in a fast-draining mix and reduce watering frequency.
White cottony clusters (mealybugs)
Cause: Pest infestation commonly hidden in leaf axils and roots.
Solution: Isolate plant, remove pests with alcohol on a cotton swab, repeat treatments or use insecticidal soap; treat soil if root mealybugs are present.
Brown or bleached patches on leaves (sunburn)
Cause: Sudden exposure to intense direct sunlight or heat.
Solution: Move to bright, filtered light; acclimate gradually to outdoor sun and remove severely damaged leaves.
✂️How to Propagate Hens and chicks
Propagate by removing offsets, leaf cuttings, or by seed. For offsets: gently separate and let any wounds callus 1–2 days, then plant in a gritty, well-draining mix and water sparingly until established. For leaf cuttings: twist a healthy leaf from the rosette, allow callus 2–4 days, lay on soil surface, mist lightly until roots and tiny rosettes form. Seeds take longer and require bright light and consistent warmth.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Crassulaceae
Native to: Native to Mexico and parts of Central America, with some species in northwest South America.
Natural Habitat: Grows on rocky outcrops and dry hillsides in semi-arid regions, often in shallow, fast-draining soils with bright sun exposure and cooler nights.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Provide bright light, keep soil mostly dry and water very sparingly. Maintain temperatures above 5°C and avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Spring
Increase watering as growth resumes, repot if crowded, and feed once with a balanced dilute fertilizer to encourage new growth.
Summer
Offer bright light with afternoon shade in very hot climates, monitor for heat stress, and water more frequently but only after soil dries.
Fall
Reduce watering gradually as nights cool, stop fertilizing later in the season, and prepare to protect from any approaching frost.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water hens and chicks?
Water thoroughly then wait until the soil is completely dry; typically every 1–4 weeks depending on season and pot size.
Can hens and chicks tolerate full sun?
They like bright sun but acclimate slowly; intense midday sun can cause sunburn, so provide light shade in very hot areas.
Is it better to use cactus soil or a custom mix?
Use a fast-draining cactus/succulent mix or make your own with potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite for excellent drainage.
How do I stop my echeveria from becoming leggy?
Increase light, rotate the plant regularly, prune stretched rosettes and re-root healthy tips to maintain compact form.
Can I grow hens and chicks outdoors year-round?
Only in climates without frost; otherwise protect from freezing temperatures or grow in containers that can be moved indoors.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025