Echeveria gibbiflora 'Metallica' – Sculptural Elegance with a Silvery Glow

Echeveria gibbiflora 'Metallica' is a commanding presence in any succulent collection, known for its broad, undulating leaves in shimmering shades of lavender-grey, dusty green, and pink-bronze. Mature rosettes can span 30–40 cm across, often forming a short woody stem that lifts the plant into a graceful, chalice-like posture. The thick layer of farina gives the leaves a soft metallic sheen — enhanced by bright light and rarely matched in visual texture. This is a centerpiece succulent that balances bold form with subtle iridescence.
Visual Highlights of Echeveria 'Metallica'
 
Color Palette: Muted silver-purple to olive with soft pink edges, shifting with light and temperature
 
Leaf Form: Wavy-edged, spoon-shaped leaves with a powdery protective coating
 
Size: Grows up to 40 cm wide and 20–30 cm tall, developing a short basal stem over time
 
Growth Habit: Slow-growing, solitary or sparsely offsetting; thrives in full light and lean soils
Botanical Origin and Adaptation
Echeveria gibbiflora is native to semi-arid slopes in central and southern Mexico, including Puebla, Oaxaca, and Hidalgo. It thrives on rocky outcrops under intense sun, in mineral-rich soils with excellent drainage and seasonal rainfall. 'Metallica' is a cultivated form selected for its metallic hues and ornamental rosette symmetry. Like the species, it is non-toxic to pets and humans, and performs best in warm, dry conditions with direct sun exposure.
Care Instructions for Echeveria gibbiflora 'Metallica'
 
Light: Needs bright, direct light for at least 4–6 hours daily; a south-facing window is ideal
 
Watering: Use the soak-and-dry method; water deeply, then wait until soil is bone dry before watering again
 
Soil: Gritty cactus mix with added sand or pumice for fast drainage; avoid moisture-retentive substrates
 
Humidity: Prefers low humidity and high airflow; do not mist
 
Temperature: Thrives at 18–30 °C; protect from frost and temperatures below 10 °C
 
Fertilizing: Apply a diluted succulent fertilizer 2–3 times per year, only if growth is active
 
Repotting: Every 2–3 years or once roots become crowded; use unglazed clay pots for better drying
 
Propagation: Via mature leaf cuttings or basal offsets; allow cuttings to callus before replanting
 
Hydroponics: Not recommended; this species prefers dry, mineral-based soil conditions
 
Maintenance: Gently remove dried lower leaves to prevent pest buildup and rot
Common Issues and Their Solutions
 
Etiolation (Stretching): Caused by low light; move to a sunnier location immediately
 
Leaf Rot: Often due to trapped moisture in the rosette; always water at the soil line
 
Mealybugs: Found in crevices; treat with neem oil, isopropyl alcohol swabs, or insecticidal soap
 
Fungal Spots: Appear with overwatering or poor airflow; isolate, improve ventilation, and allow drying
 
Soft Leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering or poor drainage — let soil dry out and adjust frequency
Extra Tips for a Thriving 'Metallica'
 
Pot Choice: Terracotta pots help evaporate excess moisture and reduce rot risk
 
Avoid Touching Leaves: The farina (protective wax) is easily rubbed off, leaving permanent marks
 
Summer Outdoors: Can be placed outside in full sun above 15 °C — but acclimate gradually to avoid sunburn
Etymology of Echeveria gibbiflora
The genus Echeveria honors Atanasio Echeverría y Godoy, a notable botanical illustrator from 18th-century Mexico. The species name gibbiflora derives from Latin: “gibbus” (hump) and “flora” (flower), referencing the swollen floral base found in wild specimens. The cultivar name 'Metallica' highlights its shimmering, silvery surface — a rare trait even among Echeverias.
FAQs – Echeveria gibbiflora 'Metallica'
 
Does it flower indoors? Yes, with enough light. It produces tall stalks with reddish-pink, bell-shaped flowers.
 
Can I place it outdoors in summer? Absolutely — just avoid rainfall and bring indoors when nights drop below 12 °C.
 
Why are the leaves going soft? Most often from overwatering. Wait until the soil is fully dry before watering again.
Add Echeveria 'Metallica' to Your Collection Today
Looking for a bold, low-maintenance centerpiece? Order Echeveria gibbiflora 'Metallica' and enjoy its sculptural elegance and shimmering tones all year round.