A neat clumping rosette of powdery pale blue-green leaves edged in translucent pink, sending up arching stems of bell-shaped pink-and-yellow flowers in spring. A classic windowsill and dish-garden succulent.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 10 cm H × 30 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Mexican Snowball
Botanically, Echeveria elegans is a slow-growing succulent in the Crassulaceae family. It reaches around 10 cm tall and 30 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage. Pink flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Mexican Snowball
Mexican Snowball suits arid and semi-arid, Mediterranean and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Mexican Snowball does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Mexican Snowball handles dry conditions well once established. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Mexican Snowball after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Mexican Snowball in the garden
Mexican Snowball earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Mexican Snowball with species that also favour very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Mexican Snowball
Plant Sale lists Mexican Snowball as potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
