Pot Size: 3.5"
Accepted Scientific Name:
Echeveria cante 'White Cloud'
Origin and Habitat:
The parent species, Echeveria cante, is native to the semi-arid highlands of Zacatecas, Mexico. It thrives on rocky hillsides and cliffs, often growing in crevices where water drains quickly and sunlight is abundant. The area experiences warm days, cool nights, and low humidity, with sparse but seasonal rainfall. In cultivation, 'White Cloud' is a named cultivar selected for its uniquely frosty-white appearance, likely bred and stabilized in controlled environments for ornamental use. This cultivar is particularly prized by collectors for its rare pastel tones and strong symmetry, making it a standout among hybrid Echeverias.
Description:
Echeveria cante 'White Cloud' is a stunning rosette-forming succulent reaching 6–10 inches in diameter. The plant displays wide, spoon-shaped leaves with a powdery white coating (farina) that gives the rosette a silvery, cloud-like appearance. Hints of pink or lavender can blush along the leaf edges in bright light or cooler temperatures. In summer, it may produce slender stalks up to 12 inches tall, topped with bell-shaped flowers in soft coral or peach tones. The contrast between the pale foliage and vibrant blooms adds dramatic visual appeal in containers or rock gardens.
Cultivation:
Zone: Suitable for USDA zones 9 to 11.
Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 10°C and 30°C; protect from frost below 5°C.
Growth Rate: Moderate under optimal conditions.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil with added pumice to prevent root rot and improve aeration.
Watering: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Water deeply but infrequently, avoiding the rosette center.
Fertilizing: Apply diluted, balanced fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during active growth in spring and summer.
Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light to full sun. Too little light can cause stretching and color loss.
Pests and Diseases: Susceptible to mealybugs and aphids. Good airflow and dry leaves help prevent rot and fungal issues.
Propagation:
Propagate easily from leaf cuttings or offsets. Allow cuttings to callous for several days before placing on well-draining pumice-rich soil. Keep warm and lightly mist until roots form.
