Pests and Disease
‘Black Prince’ rarely has pest or disease issues when grown in ideal conditions.
Pests
The most common pests you’ll encounter when growing echeveria are sap-suckers that feed on the fleshy leaves.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
They tend to cluster on new growth and excrete honeydew, a sticky substance that can attract ants and encourage sooty mold.
A strong spray of water can dislodge the pests or you can use insecticidal soap.
Read our guide to dealing with aphids here.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are public enemy number one for echeveria. These white, fuzzy insects cluster in the crevices of the rosette at the base of leaves.
To control mealybugs, remove visible insects with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
For heavy infestations, spray the entire plant with a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap or use neem oil.
Learn more about managing mealybugs.
Spider Mites
Spider mites occasionally appear, especially on indoor plants or during hot, dry weather. These tiny arachnids cause stippling and discoloration on leaves.
If you notice fine webbing between the leaves, it’s likely spider mites. Wash them off with water and apply neem oil.
Our guide to managing spider mites has more information.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails will sometimes munch on your plants especially during wet weather. They leave irregular holes in leaves and slime trails.
You’d think the tough leaves would deter them, but apparently they find echeverias tasty. Our guide to managing slugs and snails has solutions.
Disease
Disease issues with ‘Black Prince’ almost always stem from too much water or humidity.
Fungal leaf spots can appear as brown or black spots on leaves, especially during humid weather or after extended periods of rain.
Remove affected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering.
Root rot is the most serious problem you’re likely to encounter. It’s caused by overly wet soil that prevents the roots from absorbing oxygen and allows fungal pathogens to thrive.
Early signs include leaves turning yellow and mushy from the bottom up or the entire plant becoming soft and floppy.
If you catch it early, you may be able to save the plant by removing it from the soil, cutting away all rotting tissue, letting it dry for several days, and replanting in fresh, dry soil.
Learn more about rotting in succulents here.
Embrace the Dark Side
‘Black Prince’ combines dramatic good looks with easygoing care requirements, making it perfect for beginners and experienced growers alike.
Whether you grow ‘Black Prince’ indoors on a sunny windowsill or outdoors in a rock garden, this echeveria is guaranteed to draw attention.
So what are your plans for this dark beauty? Will you grow it solo as a statement piece, or mix it with lighter succulents for contrast? Share your ideas in the comments section below!
And for more information about growing echeveria, check out these guides next:
