About Echeveria Spotted Deer (4 inch)
A modern hybrid of garden artistry, ‘Spotted Deer’ channels the enchantment of sun-dappled woodlands into a compact succulent treasure. While its lineage is cultivated, its charm lies in an ever-evolving canvas of light and shadow. It forms tight, symmetrical rosettes (3–5" wide) with gently upturned leaves. Young plants grow upright, gradually developing a subtle stem that elevates the rosette like a forest mushroom cap. Thick, spatulate leaves showcase a mint-jade base dusted with irregular plum-brown freckles. Under bright light, margins blush rose-crimson, while a translucent farina coating creates an ethereal glow. Patterns shift seasonally—no two leaves are identical. Mature plants send up slender amber stalks in late spring, bearing miniature peach bells—a delicate counterpoint to its bold foliage.
How to care for Echeveria Spotted Deer (4 inch)
Light: Echeveria ‘Spotted Deer’ reveals its finest artistry in bright, filtered sunlight (morning direct sun + afternoon dappled light). Intense midday exposure may fade freckles, while insufficient light dulls crimson edges. An east-facing sill or shaded patio creates its ideal stage.
Water: Water only when the soil feels thoroughly dry 1.5" deep, then irrigate deeply with immediate drainage. In winter dormancy (<50°F/10°C), reduce watering to monthly sips. Farina protection requires bottom-watering or precise soil-targeted pours.
Temperature: Sweet Spot: 65–78°F (18–26°C) maximizes freckle contrast. Cool-Color Crescendo: Below 55°F (13°C), crimson margins intensify dramatically. Tolerates 30°F (–1°C) if arid (Zone 9b+). Summer Adaptation: Above 85°F (30°C), provide airflow; freckles may deepen to chocolate-brown.
Soil & Potting: This 4-inch nursery-potted specimen thrives in its breathable home for 6–12 months. Upgrade to a shallow terracotta pot with drainage using gritty blend (50% pumice, 30% cactus soil, 20% horticultural charcoal).
Fertilizer: Feed monthly in spring/early summer with low-NPK fertilizer (2-4-3) at 1/4 strength. Excess nitrogen suppresses freckling.
Pests & Diseases: Farina naturally repels pests. Combat rare mealybugs with cotton swabs dipped in diluted isopropanol. Gravel top-dressing prevents soil splash.
Propagation: Leaf propagation works sufficiently. Gently twist plump mid-rosette leaves, callous 4 days, then place on dry soil. New roots and buds will sprout after 2+ months
More information
Primary color: Mint-Jade
Secondary color: Plum-Brown Freckles, Rose-Crimson Margins
Bloom color: Peach
Product format: Rooted in 4 inch nursery pot
Cold hardiness: Zones 9b–11 (30°F / –1°C to 40°F / 4°C)
Suitability:
Bright terrariums (low humidity)
East/West windowsills
Sheltered tabletops
Fairy gardens
Propagation: Leaf cuttings
Special characteristics:
Ephemeral freckling – Spot density/intensity shifts with light exposure.
Farina-filtered glow – Diffuses light like stained glass.
Micro-scale wonder – Maintains compact form for years.
Variegation instability – Each leaf is genetically unique.