Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ is a hybrid succulent known for its purple-gray rosette-forming foliage. Its parent species – Echeveria gibbiflora and Echeveria potosina – are native to arid regions in Mexico. It is cultivated as a houseplant or outside in containers and rock gardens.
The leaves are pale blue-gray with purple to pink hues and grow in a dense rosette. Mature plants develop a short stem although the leaves are the primary structure of this succulent. The foliage is covered in a waxy, dusty powder called farina, which protects the plant from harsh sunlight and moisture. In the spring and early summer, coral to pink, urn-shaped flowers are borne on long stalks.
| Scientific Name | Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ |
| Common Names | Perle von Nurnberg, Pearl of Nurnberg, PVN Succulent |
| Plant Type | Succulent, perennial |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Echeveria |
| Origin | Mexico |
| Size | Up to 5-7” tall, 6” wide |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 9-11 |
| Propagation Methods | Leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, offsets, seed |
| Climate | Arid to semi-arid |
| Soil Type | Well-draining, rocky |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Perle von Nurnberg Care
Light
Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ requires at least 6 hours of bright light a day. When exposed to full sun, the foliage develops pink to purple shades. In low light, the leaves are predominantly green to gray and the rosette may be less compact. In temperatures above 85 °F, protect from intense sun by bringing containers into the shade or creating a shelter using shade cloth. If growing indoors, place next to a south-facing window and use a sheer curtain to protect from harsh sun. Consider using a grow light in the darker months.
Note: Outdoor shade in hot climates provides brighter light than many indoor locations. Container plants will benefit from being outside during the spring and summer.
Soil
Grow in well-draining, gritty soil. For potted plants, mix two parts succulent soil with one part perlite and one part coarse sand. Outdoors, avoid planting in heavy clay or in regions with high rainfall. Perle von Nurnberg does well in rock gardens and in containers.
Water
Water once the soil is dry—this may be every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season. Water well and allow the excess to drain away. Water directly into the soil to avoid wetting the foliage. Keep almost dry during the winter.
Humidity
Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ grows best in dry conditions. Most indoor environments provide adequate humidity. Avoid placing in a humid location such as a bathroom. Ensure good spacing between plants to increase airflow and avoid overhead watering.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced, diluted fertilizer once a month during the growing season in spring and summer. Do not fertilize from late fall to late winter.
Pruning
Perle von Nurnberg does not require frequent pruning. Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and prevent issues with rot. Cut back spent flower stalks.
Flowering
At maturity, PVN succulents will produce flowers in the spring and early summer. Flowers may last for up to one month. Note that this purple Echeveria species is more commonly grown for its foliage rather than its flowers.
- Provide adequate sunlight.
- Avoid using a high-nitrogen fertilizer that will encourage foliage growth rather than flowering.
- Reduce watering slightly in the early spring to trigger drought-induced flowering.
Perle von Nurnberg Propagation
Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ is successfully propagated by leaf cuttings, stem cuttings (beheading/topping), and offsets. Propagation by seed is possible but less common. Propagate in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
Leaf Propagation
Consider that propagation time may vary and not all leaves will successfully establish and grow into new plants.
- Select a large, healthy leaf close to the base of the rosette.
- Gently pull the leaf to separate from the main plant.
- Let the leaf dry for a few days.
- Lay on a well-draining substrate and moisten lightly.
- Place in bright indirect light.
- Roots may develop in 2 to 4 weeks followed by a small rosette in a further 2 to 3 months.
Cuttings: Beheading Echeveria
Beheading succulents, especially those that are rosette-forming, is a method of rejuvenating the plant and encouraging new growth. Mature Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ will grow a longer stem over time. Beheading is a good option to regrow the separated rosette as a compact plant. The severed stump will develop offsets.
- Using a sterilized, sharp knife or pair of scissors, cut the stem at the base of the rosette.
- Let the rosette head dry for a few days.
- Plant in a well-draining substrate and water lightly. The rosette head can take a few weeks or months to root.
- Pups should develop on the severed stump within several weeks.
Offsets
A healthy, mature PVN succulent will produce offsets (pups) at the base of the plant. Remove offsets in the spring.
- Choose offsets that are well-developed.
- Gently pull to separate from the parent plant. If there is resistance, use a sharp, sterilized knife.
- Let the offset dry for a few days.
- Plant in a well-draining substrate and water lightly.
- Place in bright indirect light. Offsets can take several weeks to root.
Repotting
Repot every 2 to 3 years or once the plant is rootbound. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fill with fresh substrate. Avoid watering for a few days after repotting to allow the plant to settle. Take care when handling to avoid removing the protective farina from the leaves.
Tip: Terracotta or ceramic pots are a good choice for succulents. They are porous, allowing air to penetrate the soil and for moisture to evaporate easily.
Overwintering
In USDA zones 9-11, it is possible to grow Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ outside all year. In colder climates, plant in containers and bring to a warmer location for the winter. PVN succulents continue to require several hours of bright light a day throughout the winter. In areas with short daylight hours, consider using a grow light. Keep almost dry during the winter.
Problems
- Mushy, translucent, or yellow leaves: Caused by overwatering. Let the soil dry out completely. In severe cases, replant in fresh, dry substrate.
- Flattened, shriveled, or dry leaves: Caused by underwatering. Check soil moisture and water thoroughly. Remove dead leaves.
- White or pale coloring: Caused by harsh sunlight. Sunburn may include brown or reddish patches. Provide shelter in extreme heat to prevent further damage.
- Leggy stems and etiolated growth: Caused by inadequate light. Place in a bright location and use a grow light indoors if necessary. Consider propagating by stem cuttings/beheading to regrow as compact plants.
Note: Like many succulents, overwatering is the biggest cause of Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ dying. Monitor plants for early signs of overwatering.
Pests
Perle von Nurnberg is relatively resilient to most pests when grown in optimal, dry conditions. Indoor plants may be susceptible to mealybugs. Remove using a Q-tip soaked in rubbing alcohol. Spray with diluted neem oil to prevent further infestations.
Diseases
Careless watering and excessive moisture can cause fungal problems such as root rot. Plant in a well-draining substrate, allow the soil to dry in between watering and avoid wetting the foliage.
