Aeonium arboreum aka Tree Aeonium

Taxonomy

Aeonium arboreum also known as the tree aeonium, tree houseleek, or Irish rose, is a succulent, subtropical subshrub in the Crassulaceae family. It is a frost-tender, evergreen sub-shrub that forms a compact mound of closely-packed leaf rosettes. The succulent leaves start green at the center and gradually darken to burgundy or almost black at the edges of the rosette. In summer, it may produce domed clusters of small, starry yellow flowers. While it is a good patio pot plant, it requires winter protection in most areas, except for the mildest regions. Originally from the Canary Islands, it is a native of the sub-tropics and can be grown indoors. Varieties such as var. Artopurpureum (with burgundy leaves) and var. Zwartkop/Schwarzkopf (with much darker leaves) also exist. It should be noted that Aeonium arboreum can be invasive in areas outside its natural distribution, such as temperate southern Australia, where it escapes gardens.

Common names

Tree Aeonium, Black Rose, Tree Aenium

How to care for Tree Aeonium

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Tree Aeonium is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Tree Aeonium does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

The Tree Aeonium is very susceptible to soil that is too wet, so it's essential to choose a potting soil that drains well and does not retain excessive moisture. A soil mix that includes plenty of perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. You can easily create this type of soil by adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Tree Aeonium prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Tree Aeonium is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Humidity

Tree Aeonium prefers dry environments, but by misting the plant or providing extra humidity, water will linger on the leaves and create an ideal environment for fungi that could be harmful.

Fertilizer

The Tree Aeonium is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Tree Aeonium’s native range is Macronesia, and East Africa to Yemen.

Flower

Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Tree Aeonium blooming.


More info:
Wikipedia