Scientific name: Echeveria setosa
Common name: Mexican Firecracker
The Echeveria has green leaves that can be covered in small hairs as it grows. There are tall, red and yellow flowers in the Spring.
Quick Look at Echeveria setosa
- Full sun to partial shade
- Typical water needs for a succulent – be careful not to over-water!
- Grows up to 3″ (7.6 cm) tall
Grows up to 12″ (30.5 cm) wide - Zone 9a (Minimum 20° F | -6° C)
- Not cold hardy
- Propagate by offsets, leaves or stem cuttings
- Generally non-toxic
- Winter Dormant
General Care for Echeveria setosa “Mexican Firecracker”
Echeveria setosa “Mexican Firecracker” grows well in an outdoor garden. As it grows offsets, it spreads out.
Watering
Echeveria setosa “Mexican Firecracker” has typical watering needs. When the soil is completely dry be sure to use the “soak and dry” method.
Where to Plant
If you live in a zone that gets colder than 30 F (- 1.1 C), it’s best to plant the Mexican Firecracker in a container that can be brought indoors. It can be grown indoors if given enough light.
How to Propagate Echeveria setosa “Mexican Firecracker”
Echeveria setosa “Mexican Firecracker” can be grown by offsets, leaves, or stem cuttings.
Offsets
There will be offsets along a short stem. Use a knife or scissors in the spring to remove these. Allow the offsets to dry for a couple of days before replanting.
Leaves
If you want to propagation a leaf, gently twist the leaf from the stem. The leaf should be a clean pull, where no part of the leaf is left on the stem. This will increase the chances of a successful propagation.
Allow the leaf to dry out for a day or two before placing it on the soil.
Cuttings
If you want to cut the stem of the Mexican Firecracker, use a sterile knife or sharp scissors to cut a tube from the base of the plant. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days before putting it in the soil. Wait to water an additional day or two, and then use the “soak and dry” method.
