Echeveria runyonii Rose
Topsy Turvy Echeveria
Echeveria runyonii, popularly known as 'Topsy Turvy', is a species in the family Crassulaceae native to Tamaulipas, Mexico, described by Rose in 1935. Its common name refers to the unique characteristic of its leaves: they are curved outward and upward so that the abaxial (lower) surface faces the sun — an unusual inverted morphology for the genus. The leaves are grey-blue with pruina and arch back toward the rosette, creating a very recognizable sculptural form. Reaches about 15 cm in diameter.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Echeveria |
| Growth Habit | Rosette with leaves curved backward, giving it an unmistakable sculptural appearance. Produces offsets regularly. Moderate growth rate. The stem may elongate to form a small column with age. |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC). Widely cultivated worldwide as an ornamental. Its wild populations in Tamaulipas are moderately stable. |
| pH Target | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| Type | Stony, highly porous mineral soil with minimal water retention. Preferably with coarse sand and perlite fraction. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Spatulate to oblanceolate leaves, 4–7 cm long, grey-blue with soft pruina. The key morphological feature is that they curve outward and upward, exposing the abaxial surface to the exterior. The apex is acute with a small mucro. Margins are entire.
ecoInflorescence a cyme on a 25–35 cm stalk. Bell-shaped flowers, orange-red with yellow tips. Blooms in summer–autumn. Nectariferous and long-lasting.
ecoShort to moderate stem that tends to elongate, forming a slightly elevated rosette over the years. The base lignifies. Produces offsets at the stem base.
ecoFibrous and moderately fleshy roots, well adapted to stony soils and prolonged drought periods.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Stony, highly porous mineral soil with minimal water retention. Preferably with coarse sand and perlite fraction.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Remove a mature leaf with a twisting motion, preserving the basal meristem.
- 2 Callous in shade for 24–48 hours.
- 3 Place horizontally on dry substrate at 22–26 °C.
- 4 Mist gently every 4–5 days; plantlet appears in 4–8 weeks.
- 1 Separate basal offsets when 2–3 cm in diameter.
- 2 Callous the cut for 24 hours and plant in dry mineral substrate.
- 3 Water moderately starting the following week.
Place where it receives sun from all angles to maintain rosette symmetry.
Overwatering in winter, which quickly rots the base.
Every 2–3 years in spring when offsets fill the pot or roots emerge from the holes.
Cactus fertilizer at half dose, once in spring and once in summer; none in autumn–winter.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans, dogs, and cats. Classified as safe by the ASPCA.
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Plant Health
Mealybug: accumulates between the curved leaves; inspect regularly and treat with isopropyl alcohol.
Root rot from overwatering or substrate without adequate drainage.
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"The inverted leaf morphology of Echeveria runyonii — with the abaxial surface oriented toward the sun — is a notable case of morphological adaptation that maximizes reflection of intense radiation and reduces overheating of the apical meristem. This highly unusual feature has made 'Topsy Turvy' one of the most photographed and collected echeverias in the world, and has given rise to numerous ornamental hybrids."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.