Hechtia sp. "Tehuacan" - 3ga

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Hechtia ‘Tehuacan’ is a compact, terrestrial bromeliad forming tight rosettes under 1 ft tall and wide. It features broad, shiny light-green leaves often marked with reddish mottling, with evenly spaced marginal spines that give the plant a bold, armored look. Like others in its genus, it is well-adapted to arid, rocky landscapes and is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established.

Rosettes maintain a neat, symmetrical form, with leaves that are flat to slightly arching, their surfaces reflecting light to produce a subtle sheen. Summer blooms arise from the center of the rosette, bearing clusters of small white flowers—characteristic of the genus. Plants may offset slowly over time, forming small clumps. Unlike Dyckia and Puya, which are primarily South American, Hechtia species are Mexican and Southwestern U.S. natives, often found growing alongside Agave, cactus, and yucca on cliffs and rocky slopes.

Cultivation & Care

Light: Full sun to light shade; foliage colors and markings intensify in brighter light.

Soil: Excellent drainage required; thrives in rocky, grit-heavy, or decomposed granite mixes.

Water: Low; irrigate occasionally, allowing soil to dry fully. Avoid waterlogged conditions—never allow standing water beneath containers.

Hardiness: 20–25°F; tolerates brief light frost.

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate. Suitable for containers, raised beds, and xeriscape rock gardens.

Landscape Use
Ideal for desert gardens, rock outcrops, and succulent compositions where its armored texture and subtle color variations provide structural interest. Performs well in hot inland climates given good drainage.

Notes

Seed originally collected near Tehuacán, Puebla; this form has been propagated and refined in cultivation since 2006.

Hechtia species are dioecious (male and female flowers on separate plants); seed production requires both.

Not monocarpic — plants bloom annually and continue to grow.