Greetings from the plant kingdom. We, Echeveria, are a diverse genus of succulents prized for our stunning rosettes and vibrant colors. To thrive in your care, our fundamental needs are non-negotiable. We require intense, direct light for several hours daily to maintain our compact form and vivid hues. Our roots are highly susceptible to rot, so we demand exceptionally well-draining soil, typically a gritty mix with plenty of perlite or pumice. Most critically, the journey from a nursery to your home is immensely stressful for us. Therefore, purchasing from a seller who understands and facilitates a proper acclimation process is paramount for our long-term survival.
For the highest quality and greatest variety, seek out online nurseries that specialize exclusively in succulents and cacti. These specialists understand our physiology intimately. They cultivate us in conditions that mimic our natural, arid habitats, resulting in stronger, more resilient plants. They often grow us from leaf or stem cuttings on-site ("rooted cuttings"), which are better adapted to life in a pot than large, field-grown specimens that undergo severe root trauma during digging. These specialized nurseries are also more likely to provide accurate species identification and detailed care instructions specific to our needs.
When you browse an online store, please scrutinize it on our behalf. Examine the product photos critically; they should be of the actual plant you will receive, not a generic stock image. A reputable seller will show multiple angles so you can assess our stem health and leaf plumpness. Read the shipping details carefully. We must be shipped bare-root (without soil) to prevent moisture damage and rot during transit. The packaging should be secure, often with soft paper wrapping to prevent our farina (that precious powdery coating on our leaves) from being rubbed off and our leaves from being broken. Avoid large marketplaces where numerous third-party vendors operate, as quality control and shipping practices can be wildly inconsistent.
Based on our collective experiences, several U.S.-based online retailers have earned trust for their handling and quality. Mountain Crest Gardens is widely recognized for its vast selection, detailed descriptions, and robust packaging. Leaf & Clay is another excellent option, known for its unique varieties and careful shipping processes. For those seeking rare and unusual hybrids, specialty nurseries like Succulents Depot offer a curated collection. Even large-scale operations like Altman Plants, which supplies many big-box stores, have their own dedicated website offering a wide range of common and hybrid varieties. Always check each nursery's shipping schedule, as most will not ship during extreme temperatures that could harm us in transit.
