Transform your succulent collection with the striking Echeveria Black Prince. Gain insights from gardening enthusiast Rachel Garcia on the optimal practices for growing and nurturing this captivating plant.
Indulge in the captivating allure of Echeveria ‘Black Prince,’ a diminutive succulent that exudes an air of drama in any garden setting. Its dark, almost black foliage creates a bold statement amidst a backdrop of lush greenery, making it an ideal addition to contemporary gothic-inspired indoor and outdoor landscapes.
The rosettes of the Black Prince feature spiraling, wide, and pointed leaves that darken to a rich purple, occasionally appearing almost black as they mature, their hue intensifying with varying levels of sunlight exposure.
Hailing from Mexico, the Echeveria genus boasts numerous hybrids, with ‘Black Prince’ being a cross between Echeveria affinis and shaviana. With the right care, this hybrid thrives equally well indoors and out.
Plant Overview
Plant Type
Succulent
Family
Crassulaceae
Genus
Echeveria
Species
Echeveria ‘Black Prince’
Exposure
Full sun to partial shade
Height
5-10″
Watering Requirements
Low
Maintenance
Light Low
Soil Type Succulent Mix
Discovering Echeveria ‘Black Prince’
Echeveria ‘Black Prince’ matures to produce striking red flowers in late fall, supported by tall leafed stems emerging from the rosette center, potentially attracting hummingbirds to your garden.
These succulents thrive outdoors in USDA Zones 9-11. In colder zones, they prefer a sunny windowsill. The growth period of this dark succulent occurs slowly from spring to fall.
For rock garden planting, opt for light-colored rocks to contrast with the dark leaves. In containers, ensure the soil level is high enough to display the low-growing succulent beautifully.
Planting Guidelines
Typically cultivated in containers for winter protection, Echeveria ‘Black Prince’ begins with a well-draining succulent mix or a blend of potting soil and coarse sand or perlite.
Opt for a pot with drainage holes to avoid waterlogging. Fill it with the soil mix, create a small hole in the middle for the root ball, position the plant ensuring the base aligns with the soil top, and gently pack soil around the base for stability post-planting.
Allow a few days for the plant to settle before watering, and place the pot in a sunlit spot. Ensure it receives adequate light to maintain its rosette shape without leaf scorching.
Cultivation Steps
Echeveria ‘Black Prince’ is a low-maintenance succulent that thrives once its care requirements are met.
Sunlight Requirements
JAMES
James is an environmental gardener and passionate writer who holds a master's degree in agriculture. He graduated from Harvard University with a degree in environmental horticulture and has a particular interest in soil composition. Currently, James works as a researcher in plant research, where he continues to explore and advance knowledge in his field. His combined expertise in environmental gardening and soil science helps him contribute valuable insights to both academic and practical gardening communities.