Lipstick Echeveria 'Ebony'

'Ebony' is a highly sought-after cultivar of Echeveria agavoides, prized for its stiff, thick, triangular leaves that form a perfectly symmetrical rosette. The foliage is a pale grey-green, but it is the dramatic, almost black-purple margins and terminal spines that give this plant its name and striking appearance. The intensity of the dark edges increases with exposure to bright sunlight and cooler temperatures. This succulent is slower growing than many other Echeverias but can reach a significant size over time. It produces lantern-shaped red and yellow flowers on slender stems in spring. In the UK, it is best grown in a container so it can be moved to a frost-free greenhouse or conservatory for the winter, as it is only tender (H2). It requires very little water during the winter months and appreciates a top-dressing of grit to keep the lower leaves away from moist soil. It makes a stunning specimen plant for a sunny windowsill or table.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Cactus potting mix with added perlite.

Hardiness: H2 — down to 1°C.

Flowering: AprInternal, May, Jun.