Aeonium canariense (Giant Velvet Rose)

Scientific Name

Aeonium canariense (L.) Webb & Berthel.

Common Names

Giant Velvet Rose, Tree Aeonium

Synonyms

Sempervivum canariense

Scientific Classification

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Subtribe: Sedinae
Genus: Aeonium

Description

Aeonium canariense is a succulent plant, up to 1 feet (30 cm) tall when not in bloom, with rosettes up to 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter. Each rosette is monocarpic, which means it dies right after it flower. The bright green leaves become tinged with red when grown in the spring sun. Blooming stems packed with cream-yellow flowers emerge in summer, reaching up to 3 feet (90 cm).

Photo via artsnursery.com

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Aeoniums do not like really hot or dry weather. They may go dormant in summer and do not require any water, except in very dry 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 Aeonium need some moisture. If you are growing them in containers, repot 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… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Aeonium