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If you want to grow Aeoniums, then you need to know that they are more suitable in a Mediterranean climate which is not extremely cold, hot, or dry. Since Aeoniums produce fleshy rosettes, then they have a close resemblance with other types of succulents such as Echeveria and Sempervivum (also known as Hens and Chicks). These plants can grow numerous long branches and tend to grow into shrubs. While some varieties are low growing.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of Aeoniums form into rosettes. The shape of its leaves is somewhat rounded. Its stems can either be long and branched or short and thick. The solid colors of its leaves are what make Aeoniums look flawless. Sometimes its leaves can also be a combination of different colors including red, yellow, white, and green.
The flowers of Aeoniums will come out from the middle of the rosettes. Its small flowers will grow in bunches and it has a star-like shape. Most often, Aeoniums will bloom during the late winter or spring.
Exposure to Sunlight
Just like other succulents, Aeoniums can grow very well in total sun exposure but sometimes they also require partial shade. When the weather is extremely hot, then it is essential to provide them with some shade.
Hardy Succulents
Aeoniums are considered as one of the best hardy succulents that you can grow during the cold season. But be wary that these plants are best in USDA Zones 9-11. Nevertheless, they can thrive in sporadic frosts with a temperature of 25 ℉ (-4 ℃).
Plant Size
The size of Aeoniums will differ from one variety to another. Some Aeonium varieties are low growing. They only grow a few inches tall, while their rosettes can only reach up to an inch or two. On the other hand, other varieties can branch out tremendously. They can probably reach three to four feet tall. Its rosettes are plate-size.
Aeoniums in Gardens
Aeoniums can be a great addition to your garden. They will catch more attention compared to the other plants in your garden. The ones that can grow tall will have a similarity of a bonsai plant. If they get taller, then they can look awkward, so you have to cut them down. These cuttings can be used in reproducing new plants. This means that you can quickly fill out your garden with Aeoniums.
Since these plants do not require too much soil, then you can just plant them in containers. In this way, you can take a closer look at their special features. This can also help you monitor their conditions as they grow. During the rainy season or high humidity, you don’t have to water them more often. Although, you may need to water them once they have dried up already.
Always keep an eye on them and use your judgment, when necessary. For instance, it is much better to use regular potting soil, rather than choosing fast-draining soil for succulents because it can help in maintaining their moisture level.
A Few Aeonium Varieties
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Aeonium arboreum “Atropurpureum
These plants commonly have maroon leaves. Be sure to place them in bright light.
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Aeonium arboretum
They have long branches where their brilliant green rosettes will emerge. These plants are available anywhere.
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Aeonium davidbramwelli “Sunburst”
These types of succulents are best for frosty areas. Its rosettes are in white, yellow, and green stripes along with pink tips. The size of its rosettes can grow up to 1 foot across.
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Aeonium arboreum “Zwartkop”
These are dark succulents with nearly black leaves.
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Aeonium “Garnet”
This is a crossbreed of “Zwartkop”. But this one includes red leaves.
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Aeonium haworthii “Tricolor” or “Kiwi”
These succulents are very easy to grow. Its flowers can grow to four inches. During its early stage, the center of the flower is pale yellow. However, when it gets mature, it will turn into red and green.
Tips in Growing for Aeoniums
If you are interested in growing Aeoniums, then keep in mind that they do not enjoy hot or dry weather. During the summer, they might go inactive. You don’t have to water them, except during extremely dry conditions. When it is too hot, their leaves will swirl, to avoid too much water loss.
During high heat, you need to keep them in the moist shade to keep them growing. Ultimately, the growth season of Aeoniums is from winter to spring. During this time, the temperature is cool and damp. When it is winter, there is no need to water them more often. The fact is, you should only water them when the soil has completely dried up. Overwatering can rot its roots.
Aeonium requires some moisture, hence it is best to use regular potting mix or sandy loam instead of succulent and cacti mix. If you put them in containers, then you have to re-pot them at least every two to three years using fresh potting soil. Provide them with fertilizer during their growing season rather than when they are inactive.
If you are growing your Aeoniums in proper conditions, then they can take care of themselves. They can continue to survive even if you neglect them.
Propagating Aeoniums
The roots of Aeoniums are underdeveloped since its leaves and stems keep water. As a result, its stems tend to produce roots. This can be seen when the stems fall. These fallen stems can quickly turn into new plants.
Sometime the leggy branches of Aeoniums will fall off. Probably it’s because of the weight of the rosettes. These broken stems can be replanted into new ones.
A few succulents die after flowering and Aeoniums are one of them. Once they bloom, new side shoots will emerge and continue to live on.
If you need more information on growing succulents, then you can browse our articles. Eden Succulents have a lot of resources about succulents. If you encounter some problems with your succulents, then please inform us, we have a lot of information on our website that may be useful to you.
