Echeveria agavoides aka Molded Wax

Echeveria agavoides is a compact, slow-growing succulent that reaches 8-15cm (3-6 inches) in height with rosettes spreading 15-30cm (6-12 inches) in diameter. The RHS notes it takes 5-10 years to reach ultimate size. The plant has a clump-forming habit, though it typically grows as a solitary rosette when young—old plants in good condition may produce offsets. The triangular, fleshy leaves are thicker (about 6mm) and more acute than other echeverias, giving the plant its distinctive agave-like appearance.

Echeveria agavoides thrives in temperatures between 15-27°C (60-80°F) and should be kept above 10°C (50°F). The RHS rates it as H2 hardiness, meaning it's frost-tender and requires protection when temperatures drop. While the plant can survive brief exposure down to -6°C (20°F) in USDA zones 9-11, prolonged cold causes stress and damage. In cooler climates, grow it indoors or in a greenhouse during winter, moving plants outside only during frost-free months.

Echeveria agavoides has many stunning cultivars. 'Lipstick' features bright green leaves with vivid red margins. 'Ebony' has darker coloring with more pronounced red edging. 'Romeo' and 'Romeo Rubin' display deep purple-red tones, with Romeo Rubin being more intensely colored. 'Maria' has pale white-green leaves with red tips. 'Red Tips' shows classic green with red margins. 'White Ebony' is a Korean cultivar with silvery blue-white leaves and sharp pink edges. Botanical varieties include var. prolifera, var. multifida, and var. corderoyi.

Echeveria agavoides can grow outdoors year-round in USDA zones 9-11 where temperatures stay above freezing. It thrives in gravel gardens, sunny borders, and rock gardens in frost-free climates. In cooler regions, grow it in containers that can be moved indoors before autumn frosts. Outdoors, provide full sun to partial shade with excellent drainage. The RHS has given this species an Award of Garden Merit, recognizing its garden performance under UK conditions when given appropriate protection.

Echeveria agavoides can be propagated by leaf cuttings, offsets, or stem cuttings. For leaf propagation, gently twist off a healthy leaf from the base, let it callous for 2-3 days, then place on well-draining soil. Roots appear in about 2-4 weeks. For offsets, wait until pups are one-third the size of the parent plant, then carefully separate and pot individually. Spring and early summer are the best times to propagate. Seed propagation is possible at 15-18°C but slow.

Repot Echeveria agavoides every 2-3 years or when it becomes rootbound, preferably in spring or summer during active growth. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one—these succulents have compact root systems and prefer being slightly rootbound. Use shallow, wide containers with drainage holes rather than deep pots. Before repotting, let the soil dry completely. After repotting in fresh, well-draining cactus mix, wait several days before watering to allow roots to heal and prevent rot.

The main pests affecting Echeveria agavoides are mealybugs, aphids, and vine weevils. Mealybugs appear as white cottony masses in leaf axils and rosette centers—treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol applied with cotton swabs. Root rot is the most common disease, caused by overwatering and poor drainage, leading to mushy stems and leaves. Fungal issues arise from high humidity or wet foliage. Prevention is key: provide good drainage, avoid overwatering, and ensure adequate air circulation. Isolate new plants and inspect regularly.

Yellow leaves on Echeveria agavoides typically indicate watering issues. If leaves are yellow, mushy, and translucent, overwatering is the cause—reduce watering immediately and ensure soil dries completely between waterings. If yellow leaves are shriveled and dry, the plant needs water. Lower leaves naturally yellow and dry as the plant matures; this is normal. Insufficient light can also cause yellowing along with stretched, weak growth. Check drainage, adjust watering frequency, and ensure the plant receives at least 6 hours of bright light daily.

Brown leaves on Echeveria agavoides can result from sunburn, overwatering, or natural aging. Sunburn causes crispy, reddish-brown patches, especially on plants moved suddenly into direct sun—acclimate gradually to brighter light. Overwatering leads to brown, mushy spots that spread as rot develops. Brown, dried lower leaves are normal as the plant ages and can be gently removed. Brown leaf tips may indicate underwatering or low humidity. Ensure proper watering (soak and dry method), gradual light acclimation, and good air circulation.

Drooping in Echeveria agavoides usually signals overwatering or root rot. If leaves feel soft and mushy rather than firm, check the roots—healthy roots are white while rotted roots are brown or black. Remove any rotted portions, let the plant dry for several days, then repot in fresh, dry soil. Severe underwatering can also cause drooping with shriveled, wrinkled leaves—in this case, water thoroughly. Etiolation from insufficient light causes the rosette to flatten and splay outward, appearing droopy. Move to brighter light to prevent further stretching.

Excessive leaf drop in Echeveria agavoides is often caused by overwatering—waterlogged roots cause leaves to become soft and fall off with the slightest touch. Check soil moisture and reduce watering if the soil stays wet. Echeverias are particularly sensitive to overwatering and can begin rotting within 2-3 days of sitting in wet soil. Temperature stress from cold drafts or sudden changes can also trigger leaf drop. Some lower leaf loss is natural as the plant grows, but multiple leaves falling from different parts indicates a care problem.

Echeveria agavoides is naturally slow-growing, taking 5-10 years to reach full size. However, if growth seems stalled, insufficient light is usually the cause—provide at least 6 hours of bright, direct light daily. Other factors include dormancy during winter (normal), poor soil drainage limiting root health, being rootbound, or nutrient deficiency. Feed with diluted balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Etiolated (stretched) growth indicates the plant is directing energy toward reaching light rather than compact growth.