Cat's Claw (Echeveria chihuahuaensis)

Cat's Claw

Also known as: Echeveria Chihuahua

One of the smaller species in the Echeveria genus, the cat's Claw forms small, short rosettes up to 10 cm across. They are easy to care for outdoors or as houseplants, and one of the few succulents that bloom in spring. Those springtime flowers appear on tall stems that leave the parent rosette far below.

Scientific classification

Species

Cat's Claw (Echeveria chihuahuaensis)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

10 cm to 50 cm

Plant Height

10 cm

Spread

Green, Blue, Silver

Leaf Color

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Cat's Claw

Distribution of Cat's Claw

Distribution Map

Cat's Claw originates from the dry regions of the Northern American continent. It has adapted to thrive in arid environments where it naturally occurs. Additionally, cat's Claw has spread beyond its native range due to its popularity in cultivation. It is now established in various temperate and subtropical regions internationally, prized for its ornamental qualities.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Cat's Claw is considered a fine addition to rock gardens. Cat's Claw is valued ornamentally for its compact growth habit and rosette of leaves, particularly when planted in conditions that bring out the pink coloration this species can exhibit at the tips. The lightly scented flowers produced by this species attract bees and butterflies.

Name Story

Echeveria chihuahua: Echeveria is a diverse genus of succulents mainly found in Mexico and the southwestern United States. Cat's Claw's home territory is easily identified, both in its common and scientific name. It hails mainly from the Chihuahua desert region of Mexico, though it may sometimes be found elsewhere.

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Quickly Identify Cat's Claw

Rosettes reach 4 inches (10 cm) in width, forming compact growth habit.

Leaves are bluish-gray with scalloped edges and pinkish tips.

Distinct red markings near leaf tips with occasional pinkish hues.

Pinkish flower stalks rise to 10 inches (25 cm) with coral-pink flowers.

Leaves may show gray-green coloration and compact rosette structure.

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Care Guide for Cat's Claw

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from arid regions, cat's Claw is drought-tolerant, storing water in its succulent leaves. Water every three weeks, ensuring soil dries completely between sessions. Usually grown indoors, cat's Claw prefers well-draining soil to prevent root rot and maintain optimal moisture levels.

Fertilize: For cat's Claw, apply a balanced succulents and cacti fertilizer bi-monthly during the growing season (spring to early fall) using a quarter-strength solution. Pause in winter, avoid over-fertilization, and ensure substrate moisture to prevent root burn. Gradual introduction helps maintain plant health.

Pruning: To maintain its shape, prune cat's Claw in spring and fall by removing dense or redundant branches. For propagation, cut a stout stem with 5-6 leaves, treat the wound with sulfur powder, and plant it after the wound heals, ensuring the soil is slightly moist.

Propagation: Cat's Claw is a succulent known for its rosette shape and adaptability. Propagate by sowing leaf cuttings on well-draining soil, ensuring moderate moisture to avoid waterlogging. Once established, transplant young offsets into separate pots for optimal growth.

Repotting: Repot cat's Claw every 2 years in spring to support its compact growth. Use a slightly larger pot with good drainage. After repotting, place cat's Claw in bright, indirect light and avoid watering for one week to help roots recover from disturbance.

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