Welcome to the succulent world! Today, we will be discussing the unique Plush Plant, or Echeveria harmsii, as an ideal terrarium succulent.
This attractive and exotic species adds a vibrant touch to any terrarium.
Its intricate form and rich, lush foliage make it a popular choice for those looking for a creative, low–maintenance addition to their succulent collection.
Read on to find out more about this beautiful species and how you too can enjoy it in your own terrarium.
| Quick Stats: | |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Echeveria harmsii |
| Common Name | Plush Plant, False Agave |
| Family Name | Crassulaceae |
| Habitat | Desert |
| Temperature | 65°F to 85°F |
| Height | 6 to 12 inches |
| pH | 6.5 to 7.5 |
| Lighting | Indirect, diffused light |
What is Plush Plant?
Echeveria harmsii is a succulent, ornamental plant that generally comes in a vibrant green color with a light, creamy pink and purple color overlaying the foliage.
This plant is naturally found in the desert regions, from Mexico to the northern parts of North America.
It can grow anywhere between 6 to 12 inches tall and is also considered an evergreen.
Plush Plant Facts
The leaves of this succulent can tolerate high amounts of light, however, direct sun will not be a good choice in order to keep the vibrant colors.
Keeping the soil moist for this species is the key for it to slowly grow and spread throughout the year.
For the colder months, this plant will require less water due to fewer periods of active growth.
Description
The Echeveria harmsii is comprised of thick, fleshy leaves which tend to look like a rosette.
As the succulent grows over time, the leaves gradually thicken and get longer, thus creating a bigger rosette shape.
The foliage can reach up to 4 inches in width and 12 inches in height, depending on the region of cultivation.
Most of the colors that this plant flaunts come in shades of cream and green, while the tips are usually adorned in different shades of pink, making it an eye-catching centerpiece in most households!
Habitat
The plush plant is native to the deserts of Mexico, and Central and Northern America.
These succulents can survive for months in hot, dry, and desert-like climates.
The temperatures in the region are generally between 65-85°F.
pH Preference
This succulent prefers slightly acidic soil to grow in, which falls in the 6.5-7.5 range of pH.
Keeping the plant in soil pH below 6.5 can result in its leaves becoming yellow, so choose the soil wisely.
Vivarium Type
The plush plant is quite an easy-going species.
With that in mind, it will not be too complicated when it comes to choosing the type of enclosure it is grown in.
It is best to try and replicate the plant’s natural habitat as much as possible.
Doing so will make it easier to provide this succulent plant with its basic needs.
The proper setup and theme of the enclosure will make a big difference to the overall look and health of the plant. Here are recommended vivariums it will do well in:
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- Terrariums – Fully terrain-based enclosures with little to no aquatic features.
Vivarium Placement
Echeveria harmsii is a great succulent to use for filling gaps in a vivarium and does not need to make up the majority of the enclosure to still make its presence known.
This would work best as a feature plant placed in the center or corner of your vivarium to make it an eye-catching centerpiece.
Substrate
The substrate or surface used should be firm. Its ideal growth environment is sandy terrarium soil, however, gravel or hardscapes will work just as well.
Echeveria harmsii will thrive in a well-draining medium that offers ample airy space around its roots.
Lighting
The plush plant can tolerate direct sunlight and bright light, but never aggressive sunlight.
Place the plant as far away from the light source as possible and use it either to brighten up a corner of the vivarium or to create a highlight effect.
Try to expose the plant mainly to indirect, diffused terrarium light for best results.
Buy Plush Plant
When it comes to buying a plush plant, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Making sure the plant is healthy when purchased is essential for its success in a vivarium.
Vegetation that is already in poor conditions will have a very hard time adjusting to new environments.
Click the image below to find out more about the current price and other relative info about this plant.
Plush Plant Care and Propagation
Propagation of the plush plant is pretty easy and can be done by dividing the rosette or with seeds.
For propagation through division, you will need to separate the leaves and pot them into individual pots.
For propagation via seed, plant the seeds in a well-draining substrate and put them in an area with bright light.
How to Grow
In the wild, the plush plant grows in a dry and arid environment, so the common practice is to let the soil dry completely in between waterings.
The soil should never be soggy so it is important to ensure that the pot for this succulent has a good drainage system.
This plant also requires very little sunlight and should be placed in an area that receives only bright, indirect light.
Watering
The plush plant requires very little care and maintenance for it to grow properly in your terrarium.
Watering it once a week is enough during the growing season.
For the colder months, watering once every two weeks is usually the best option.
Keep in mind that this plant is quite sensitive to over-watering and excessive moisture so low water conditions are optimal.
Plants Similar to Plush Plant
Adding diversity to an enclosure is key to an aesthetically pleasing setup.
Try mixing up the look of your vivarium with different flora that can easily co-exist in the same types of environment.
Furthermore, if for some reason you find the plush plant hard to acquire or would like to consider something similar to this plant…
Here are other succulents you might find will do well with or in the place of Echeveria harmsii:
Conclusion
Echeveria harmsii is a stunning succulent that you must have to adorn your vivarium.
It is easy to take care of and can be propagated via seeds or by dividing the leaves.
It requires low levels of water and light for it to grow and thrive in your vivarium.
As such, with minimal care and understanding of this gorgeous succulent, you will be able to achieve an incredibly stylish, evergreen vivarium in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Echeveria Harmsii is a beautiful succulent that requires minimal care. To keep it healthy, provide it with plenty of bright, indirect light, water when the soil is dry, and fertilize during the growing season (BONUS). Make sure to protect Echeveria Harmsii from frost and cold temperatures. Additionally, you can prune any dead or damaged leaves and repot it every couple of years. With proper care, your Echeveria Harmsii will thrive!
Yes, Echeveria plants need full sun in order to thrive. They prefer direct sunlight for at least six hours each day. When grown indoors, place the plant in an area that receives plenty of light from a south–facing window.
Yes, Echeveria are a great choice for indoor plants! They are low maintenance and do well in partial to full sun exposure. They come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes so you can find one to fit any space. Echeveria don‘t require a lot of water, but should be watered when the soil is dry. They are also easy to propagate and make great gifts for plant lovers!
Yes, Echeveria is toxic. The sap of the plant contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause skin irritation and vomiting if ingested. It is important to keep the plant out of reach of pets and children.
Echeveria plants prefer temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Temperatures above 85°F can cause the plants to become stressed and may lead to leaf scorch or sunburn.
If your echeveria is dying, you may notice several signs including wilting or discolored leaves, lack of growth, and dry, brittle leaves. Other signs include wrinkles or spots on the leaves, drooping stems, and stunted growth. If you suspect that your echeveria is dying, consider repotting it in fresh soil and providing it with adequate water and sunlight.