We love succulen ts!

Echeveria setosa ‘Oliver’

This is one of the more unusual rosette-type succulents and unlike most echeverias, produces showy inflorescences of large orange flowers tipped with yellow in summer. Another distinctive characteristic is that the lime-green rosettes and leaves are covered with fine hairs, giving it a soft, furry appearance.

The leaves often develop a pink edging, making it a most attractive garden shrublet.

How to grow Plant in full sun or semi-shade, preferably with afternoon shade in summer.

Like other succulents, it needs well-drained soil and should not be overwatered or sit in water; only water when the topsoil is dry. Fertilising is not necessary, although it will appreciate some fertiliser once in a while. It tolerates cold but in very cold areas rather bring plants indoors. As indoor plants, they need bright light and can take some morning sun.

Garden uses This branching echeveria is a low-growing shrublet (up to 30cm tall) that works well as a front-of-border plant in a mixed succulent bed. The inflorescence may be up to 40cm long, adding to its showiness. Plants will also show off well in containers.

Did you know? This plant is thought to be a hybrid of E. setosa and E. harmsii and is sometimes sold under the names of Echeveria setosa x harmsii or Echeveria ‘Set-Oliver’.

Common problems Overwatering can cause the plant to rot – a sure sign of this is leaves and stems turning black. Take the plant out of the ground or the pot, cut away the blackened parts and keep the healthy parts. Let them dry out for 3–7 days, then repot or replant in soil that drains well.

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