Mexican fire cracker (Echeveria setosa)

Mexican fire cracker

Also known as: Firecracker echeveria

Mexican fire cracker (*Echeveria setosa*) is an evergreen succulent native to semidesert portions of Mexico. Mexican fire cracker is often cultivated as an ornamental houseplant and grown as an outdoor plant in California. This genus was named after a famous botanical illustrator, Atanasio Chavarría.

Scientific classification

Species

Mexican fire cracker (Echeveria setosa)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer, Mid winter, Late winter

Bloom Time

10 cm

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

Yellow, Red

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, Red, Yellow

Stem Color

Summer dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Mexican fire cracker

Distribution of Mexican fire cracker

Distribution Map

The plant mexican fire cracker originates from the major region of North America and has a limited native range. It has also been introduced to Oceania, where it is now found in cultivation. Mexican fire cracker thrives in these regions and is commonly cultivated, signifying its adaptability to diverse environments beyond its native locale.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Semidesert areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Fuzzy mexican fire cracker is a delicate ornamental succulent that adds interest to succulent and rock gardens. It can also grow in pots that decorate rooms and patios. Its red and yellow blooms appear in the spring and summer, adding extra ornamentation to gardens. This plant thrives in direct sunlight and well-drained soil. Deer will leave it alone.

Symbolism

Endurance

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Care Guide for Mexican fire cracker

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Mexican fire cracker originates from arid regions and stores water in its fleshy leaves, showcasing drought tolerance. It requires watering every 2-3 weeks, with soil allowed to dry out. As an evergreen succulent, mexican fire cracker adapts well to indoor conditions despite variable humidity.

Fertilize: For mexican fire cracker, use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer for succulents and cacti, applying bi-weekly at quarter strength in spring and summer. Avoid fertilization in fall and winter. Ensure soil is moist to prevent root burn, adjusting frequency as mexican fire cracker matures to avoid overfertilization.

Pruning: To maintain an attractive shape, large succulent plants like mexican fire cracker may require pruning in spring and fall, removing redundant or dense branches. For propagation, cut a stout stem with 5-6 leaves, treat the wound with sulfur powder, and plant once healed in slightly wet soil.

Propagation: Mexican fire cracker propagates best through cuttings; twist a leaf cleanly to avoid tearing. Allow it to callus for a few days, then place on well-draining, gritty soil. Mist lightly to maintain moisture. Roots form in a few weeks, and standard care resumes afterward.

Repotting: Mexican fire cracker is a succulent with soft, hairy leaves that benefits from repotting every two years, preferably in early spring. Use a container one size larger with good drainage, provide bright light, infrequent watering, and avoid over-handling its delicate leaves for optimal recovery.

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Images of Mexican fire cracker

Distribution of Mexican fire cracker

Culture

Care Guide for Mexican fire cracker

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