Scientific Name
Aeonium × hybridum
Synonym(s)
Aeonium × floribundum, Sempervivum ciliare subsp. hybridum, Sempervivum ciliare var. hybridum
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium
Origin
Aeonium × hybridum is a hybrid of unknown origin. It results from a cross between Aeonium spathulatum and Aeonium simsii.
Description
Aeonium × hybridum, also known as Aeonium × barbatum, is a small, bushy succulent with branches that end in rosettes of green leaves strongly marked with a brown median line. It can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall and 12 inches (30 cm) wide, branching horizontally in the lower part and forming a tufted bush. The rosettes can reach a diameter of 4 inches (10 cm). The leaves are oblong-lanceolate, pointed, and can measure up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) long and 0.3 inches (0.7 cm) wide. They are paler below and marked with linear glands. The margins of the leaves are ciliate with small, irregular obovate hyaline beads.
The compact, flattish, or convex heads of golden yellow flowers appear in spring on erect stalks that can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall. The star-shaped flowers can reach a diameter of 0.6 inches (1.5 cm). The flower heads can measure up to 2 inches (5 cm) long and up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) in diameter.
The name "Aeonium × barbatum" for this hybrid is incorrect because Aeonium barbatum is considered a synonym of Aeonium spathulatum, so any later hybrid cannot use that name.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °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 do not require any 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 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 grow them in containers, repot them with fresh potting soil every 2 to 3 years.
Feed during the growing season with a half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so. Do not feed while the plant is dormant.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aeonium.
Links
- Back to genus Aeonium
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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