Echeveria Tobarensis: A Brief Introduction and the Beginnings of In-House Propagation

Echeveria tobarensis, a species native to Durango, Mexico, was first collected by Dr. Edward Palmer on May 28, 1906, near Tobar.  Tobar forms dense rosettes of thick, ovate leaves, displaying a distinctive purple or lurid hue.

Despite multiple expeditions, including those by botanists Myron Kimnach and Jeronimo Reyes Santiago, the species has eluded rediscovery, leading to concerns about its possible extinction. In 2011, Etter and Kristen reported finding Echeveria Tobarensis in this published paper. But some argue notable differences in size, leaf color, and flower characteristics. Etter and Kristen argue "We do not believe that it is a good idea to describe it as a new species, especially since the original description of E. tobarensis was not made from living material, but from one sad-looking herbarium sheet, which can explain the differences in leaf size, and size and color of the flowers". It is unsure if Tobarensis is extinct or if this was truly a rediscovery.

This above description is based on information from the International Crassulaceae Network and The rediscovery of the elusive Echeveria tobarensis by Julia Etter & Martin Kristen

On January 26th, 2023, we acquired our first clones of Tobarensis—fondly known as "Tobar"—from Leo González of Suculentia. From the moment we received these exceptional specimens, we knew Tobar was a variety worth popularizing. It took but seconds to fall in love with its compact grey/pink rossettes.

However, we quickly discovered that Tobar comes with its difficulties. Unlike other varieties, Tobar proved to be a bit more stubborn and significantly slower-growing. But we embraced the challenge, knowing that extraordinary plants often require extraordinary patience.

To ensure we could identify the very best clones, we grew out every Tobar we received.

Our first planting of E. Tobarensis on March 2nd 2023

We grew out all of the Tobars and decided on three exceptional clones and then sold the rest of the tobarensis on the site. This process allowed us to carefully evaluate each individual and narrow them down to the best of the best.

Our three exceptional clones in the greenhouse.

From there, our work with these three chosen clones began. We allowed them to flower and ensured that they were stable, fertile individuals. These clones are more than just beautiful; they are strong, reliable, and capable of producing high-quality offspring.

Now, we’ve begun the next phase: propagation. True to their nature, Tobar seedlings are growing at their own pace—slower than most—but we remain optimistic. With care and time, we’re hopeful that by the end of the year, these clones will be ready to share with our customers.