Scientific Name
Aeonium 'Big Bang'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium
Origin
This succulent is supposed to be a sport of Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop' selected in South Korea.
Description
Aeonium 'Big Bang' is an eye-catching few-branched succulent that forms rosettes of dark purple to almost black leaves with irregular lime green stripes. Stems are erect or ascending and often branched near the base. Each rosette is unique in the degree and pattern of the variegation, and because of the unstable nature of this plant, some can be completely green and others completely purple or black. Flowering has not been observed to date.
How to Grow and Care for Aeonium 'Big Bang'
Light: A. 'Big Bang' grows best in full sun to partial shade. Indoors, give it bright indirect light as much as possible. A leggy, stretched plant is a sign of not getting enough light.
Soil: While most succulents do well when planted in a potting mix specifically formulated for succulents, sandy loam or regular potting mix amended with perlite is better for A. 'Big Bang' because it requires some more moisture.
Temperature: This succulent does not like hot or dry weather and may go dormant in summer. It prefers temperatures between 65 and 75 °F (18 and 24 °C). A. 'Big Bang' can withstand temperatures as low as 30 °F (-1.1 °C). USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C).
Watering: A. 'Big Bang' requires more water than most succulents, but too much moisture will lead to root rot. In spring and fall, water the plant thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out before watering again. Water more sparingly in winter. The plant does not need to be watered during its dormancy in summer except in arid conditions.
Fertilizing: Feed your plant during the growing season with a half-strength balanced fertilizer once a month. Do not feed A. 'Big Bang' when it is dormant in the summer months.
Repotting: If you are growing A. 'Big Bang' in a container, repot every two to three years with fresh potting soil. Choose a container with drainage holes to avoid standing water and root rot.
Propagation: This succulent is very easy to propagate from cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is spring. Allow the cut end to dry for several days before placing it in the soil.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aeonium.
Toxicity of Aeonium 'Big Bang'
A. 'Big Bang' is non-toxic to humans and animals.
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
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