Aeonium 'Ballerina Reversion' is a small, low-maintenance plant that is a charming addition to rock gardens and on porches and patios when grown in containers.
Scientific Name
Aeonium 'Ballerina Reversion'
Accepted Scientific Name
Aeonium 'Ballerina'
Synonym(s)
Aeonium 'Goblin'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium
Description
Aeonium 'Ballerina Reversion', usually sold as Aeonium 'Goblin', is a small, shrubby succulent that forms rosettes of green, spoon-shaped leaves. The rosettes can grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter, while the plant can reach a height of 8 inches (20 cm). The leaves are fleshy with a velvety texture and often sticky to the touch. When exposed to intense sunlight, the leaves show lovely yellow, orange, and red tones.
During late winter and spring, the plant produces dense clusters of star-shaped flowers on lax, leafy stalks that can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) long. The flowers are 8- to 10-merous with green, hairy sepals and yellow, lance-shaped petals. The plant is monocarpic, which means that the rosettes die after flowering.
Origin
This plant is a reversion of Aeonium 'Ballerina' that often reverts, producing rosettes of green, non-variegated leaves on the same specimen.
How to Grow and Care for Aeonium 'Ballerina Reversion'
Light: Aeonium 'Ballerina Reversion' thrives in full sun to partial shade, but in summer, light shade may be necessary, especially during the hotter afternoon hours. When growing indoors, ensure it receives as much bright indirect light as possible to prevent the plant from becoming leggy and stretched.
Soil: Unlike most succulents, this plant requires a sandy loam or regular potting soil amended with perlite. Avoid placing it in premade soil mixes designed for succulents since it needs more moisture than they typically provide.
Temperature: Aeonium 'Ballerina Reversion' does not like hot or dry weather, so it may go dormant in summer. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C).
Watering: Water the plant thoroughly in spring and fall, allowing the soil to dry before watering again. During the winter, water it more sparingly. Although this plant requires more water than most succulents, too much moisture can lead to root rot. During its dormancy in summer, stop watering except in arid conditions.
Fertilizing: To stimulate growth and improve the plant's appearance, apply a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength only during the growing season.
Repotting: If growing Aeonium 'Ballerina Reversion' in a container, repot it every two to three years during the spring. Choose a container with drainage holes to prevent root rot.
Propagation: This plant is easy to propagate by stem cuttings. Take cuttings during the growing season and allow the cut end to dry for several days before planting.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aeonium.
Toxicity of Aeonium 'Ballerina Reversion'
Aeonium 'Ballerina Reversion' is considered non-toxic, so it is safe for growing around children and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Aeonium
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
