Aeonium

Aeonium are small to mid-sized succulents native to northern Africa and nearby islands. Their waxy leaves form eye-catching rosettes -- a quick and easy way to add some serious zing to garden pots or mixed beds. These attractive plants are available in many colors: green, variegated green and yellow, purple, bronze, reddish, and dark purple-black. There are 35 species of Aeonium and each has its own growth habit. For instance, Aeonium arboretum grows around 3 feet tall, but Aeonium tabuliforme and Aeonium canariense stay compact and closer to the ground. The flowers are small and star-shaped and come in a variety of colors including white, yellow, pink, or red.

Regardless of the species, the rosettes die after the plant blooms. This is easily managed, however, as you can simply “behead” the rosettes and plant them. For best results, cut off the rosette and leave about six inches of stem. Allow the cutting to dry for a couple days. (This is a good habit when propagating any kind of succulent, as it reduces the chance of stem rot.) Plant the stem a couple inches deep into quick-draining soil such as a commercial cactus mix or potting soil mixed with perlite, vermiculite, or gravel.

Aeonium are easy to grow in our Mediterranean climate, especially in morning sun and afternoon shade. They appreciate warm, dry conditions and do not do well in freezing temperatures, especially for extended periods of time. For this reason, they are frequently grown in containers or even as houseplants, so long as they are grown where there is plenty of bright light. If you want to move an Aeonium houseplant outdoors, do so gradually to avoid leaf burn. Allow soil to dry between waterings.

These plants look terrific mixed with contrasting leaves such as grasses or as focal points in mixed pots. The deep purple-black cultivars look great alongside blue or silver foliage. Aeonium are readily available at nurseries. Check out these Aeonium to decide which shape, color, and size will work for your garden.