Light
Full sun in fall, winter and spring. In hot summers, give it some shade so the leaves don't scorch.
Water
Water when the soil is dry during its fall-to-spring growing season. In summer dormancy the rosettes close up. Keep it nearly dry then, and water lightly only if the leaves shrivel.
Soil & pots
Gritty and fast-draining. Aeoniums don't like sitting wet, and soggy soil leads to root rot.
Temperature
Happiest in mild weather. It isn't frost hardy, so grow it outdoors all year only in USDA zones 9 to 11. Elsewhere, bring it in before nights drop below 40°F (4°C).
Is tree aeonium safe for pets?
Pet safety not yet confirmed. Aeonium isn't on the ASPCA's plant lists, and we haven't found another reliable source. We haven't found a reliable source yet, so keep it out of reach of pets that chew plants.
Propagation
Aeoniums root easily from rosette cuttings. Spring and fall are good times.
- Cut a rosette with a few inches of stem.
- Let the cut callus for three days or more.
- Set it in gritty mix that's barely moist.
- Keep it in bright shade until it roots.
Common problems
FAQ
Why are my aeonium's leaves falling off in summer?
That's usually summer dormancy. It sheds some lower leaves and closes up. Keep it nearly dry and wait for cooler weather.
Is Aeonium 'Zwartkop' the same plant?
It's a cultivar of Aeonium arboreum, picked for its near-black purple leaves. Care is the same.
Sources
- Aeonium arboreum (L.) Webb & Berthel.: Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
- Aeonium arboreum (houseleek tree): RHS
- Aeonium: Wisconsin Horticulture, UW–Madison Extension
- Succulents: UC Master Gardener Program of Sonoma County
- Aeonium: North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- Aeonium cultivation notes: Plant Heritage National Plant Collection