Aeonium nobile aka Edles Aeonium

Aeonium nobile, or noble aeonium, is an evergreen succulent perennial. It belongs to the stonecrop family, Crassulaceae. Its native range is La Palma in the Canary Islands. It comes from a subtropical climate. Gardeners grow it for its large leaf rosettes and flowers. Its bold shape suits sheltered courtyards and patio containers. It also fits subtropical plantings and gardens with a Mediterranean theme.

Thick, fleshy leaves form rosettes about 1–1.6 feet [0.3–0.5 metres] across. The leaves are olive green, with orange and red tones in bright light. The plant keeps its foliage through the year. Its upright form gives it a strong outline among other plants. In cultivation, it reaches about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] tall. Its spread can reach 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. The RHS gives a maturity range of two to five years.

Mature plants flower after several years. In spring, a red stem carries panicles of small flowers. Each flower is red and shaped like a star. The flowering stem can reach 3.9 feet [1.2 metres]. This rises above the upper height given for general garden growth. The plant is monocarpic: it flowers once, then dies. This life cycle makes flowering a final stage rather than a yearly event. Plants can be raised from seed or from offsets.

Give this species full sun and a sheltered position. The RHS rates its hardiness as H1C. In Britain, this allows summer outdoor growing with temperatures above 41–50°F [5–10°C]. It needs protection under glass rather than year-round outdoor planting. Use peat-free, loam-based potting compost with extra grit for drainage. Sandy or loamy soils suit it, provided water drains freely. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline conditions. Its drought resistance does not remove its need for seasonal watering. Water moderately during growth, but stop watering while it rests.

Apply a balanced liquid feed two or three times during growth. No pruning is needed to maintain the plant. Pots allow it to serve as a patio display in summer. Under glass, its rosettes provide year-round foliage interest. Watch for aphids and mealybugs, which may attack it. The RHS reports few disease problems. Good drainage remains part of its stated growing needs.