Aeonium 'Ballerina'

Scientific Name

Aeonium 'Ballerina'

Synonym(s)

Aeonium 'Frosty', Aeonium goochiae 'Ballerina'

Scientific Classification

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium

Description

Aeonium 'Ballerina', also sold as Aeonium 'Frosty', is a succulent shrub that makes a dense mass of rosettes of grayish-green, slightly hairy leaves with white margins. It can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall, while the rosettes can reach a diameter of 4 inches (10 cm). There is some variation in the form of the somewhat sticky leaves, and reversion to the non-variegated form occurs occasionally.

Origin

According to Rudolf Schulz, Aeonium 'Ballerina' is most likely a hybrid that results from а cross between Aeonium glutinosum and possibly Aeonium canariense.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Aeoniums do not like hot or dry weather. Therefore, they may go dormant in summer and require no water except in arid conditions. In extreme heat, their leaves will curl to prevent excessive water loss. Growing them in moist shade will keep them growing, but their true growth season is winter to spring when temperatures are cool, 65 to 75 °F (18 to 24 °C), and damp. In the winter, water whenever the soil has dried out. Test by poking your finger down into the soil an inch or 2 (2.5 to 5 cm). Too much moisture or allowing them to sit in wet soil will cause root rot.

A sandy loam or regular potting mix is better than a mix specifically for cacti and succulents since Aeoniums need some moisture. If you are growing them in containers, repot them every 2 to 3 years with fresh potting soil.

Feed during the growing season with a half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so. Do not feed while dormant.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aeonium.

Forms

Aeonium 'Ballerina Reversion'

Photo Gallery

Click on a photo to see a larger version.