Hi, I’m a horticultural consultant, and in this post, I’m going to give the ultimate answer to one of the frequent questions in succulents identification: Echeveria perle von nurnberg vs purple pearl.
While shopping in plant nurseries or searching on Google, you will find various names like Echeveria perle von nurnberg, Echeveria purple pearl and even Echeveria gibbiflora ‘Purple Pearl’ for one of the most stunning purple Echeveria types. But who is she? Are all of them the same plants or various Echeveria species? Indeed, they are the same plants without any difference. Please keep reading to find out my reasons.
What is Echeveria perle von nurnberg vs purple pearl?
Echeveria perle von nurnberg is also known as Echeveria purple pearl. Indeed, ‘Purple Pearl’ is more accurately related to hybrids like Echeveria ‘Perle von Nürnberg. Hence, the absolute response to Echeveria perle von nurnberg vs purple pearl is nothing, both are the same names of a specific plant.
You must know that the Echeveria perle von nurnberg is a hybrid plant. Hybrid plants are the offspring of two different species or varieties. Hybrid plants have greater genetic diversity than their parents.
The Echeveria perle von nurnberg is generated from a cross between two stunning species: Echeveria gibbiflora var. metalica and Echeveria potosina (E. elegans).
So, its botanical name is “Echeveria gibbiflora var. metalica x E. potosina” (Mexico and San Luis Potosi).
Hence, the name “Echeveria gibbiflora ‘Purple Pearl’ is incorrect. It is sometimes mistakenly used because ‘Purple Pearl’ is not directly derived from the species Echeveria gibbiflora.
As I told you, ‘Purple Pearl’ crosses Echeveria gibbiflora and Echeveria potosina (E. elegans). Hence, calling it “Echeveria gibbiflora ‘Purple Pearl'” may lead to confusion as it implies a direct cultivar from E. gibbiflora, which it is not.
In the following, you can see the images of Echeveria gibbiflora var. Metalica, Echeveria potosina, and Echeveria perle von nurnberg.
Echeveria gibbiflora var. metalica
Echeveria potosina (E. elegans):
Echeveria perle von nurnberg
Echeveria perle von nurnberg: Key Features
The Echeveria ‘Perle von Nürnberg’ is a popular and attractive succulent known for its stunning appearance. Here are some key characteristics of its appearance:
- Rosette Shape: Echeveria ‘Perle von Nürnberg’ forms a rosette shape, a common feature of many Echeveria species. The rosettes can grow up to 5 inches (12 cm) in diameter.
- Leaf Color: The leaves are typically a soft, pale greyish-purple or lavender with a pink hue. The colour can vary depending on the amount of light the plant receives, with more sunlight often intensifying the pink and purple tones.
- Leaf Texture and Shape: The leaves are smooth, slightly pointed, and have a powdery, waxy coating called farina, which gives them a matte finish and helps protect the plant from intense
- Margins and Edges: The leaf margins can appear slightly translucent and sometimes have a more pronounced pink or purple edge, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
- Flowering: Echeveria ‘Perle von Nürnberg’ produces tall, slender flower stalks, usually in late spring to summer. The flowers are bell-shaped and typically pink to coral in colour, adding another layer of beauty to the plant.
- Growth Habit: This echeveria grows in a compact, symmetrical manner, making it a favourite for both indoor and outdoor succulent gardens.
Because of its striking colours and elegant shape, the ‘Perle von Nürnberg’ is widely used in decorative arrangements, rock gardens, and as a potted plant. Its ability to thrive in various conditions and relatively easy care make it a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts.
The End,
Now, you have a settled response to Echeveria perle von nurnberg vs purple pearl: they are the various names of a Hybrid succulent (Echeveria gibbiflora var. metalica x E. potosina). So, there isn’t any difference between Echeveria perle von nurnberg and Echeveria purple pearl.
I also told you Echeveria gibbiflora ‘Purple Pearl’ is not the true name because the Echeveria purple pearl is a hybrid succulent. This name is mistakeable and causes people to confuse it with a variety of Echeveria gibbiflora, but it’s not.

Elahe Rabiei
Hi, I’m Elaheh. My Academic major is plant protection, and houseplants are my expertise. As a houseplant lover, my house is full of indoor plants and it is my passion to take care of them. Hence, I’m here to share my knowledge and experience about growing healthy houseplants. I am also a plant protection advisor, so feel free to ask me any questions you may have.