Aeonium 'Firecracker Variegatum' is a stunning plant that displays various colors depending on the season and growing conditions.
Scientific Name
Aeonium 'Firecracker Variegatum'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium
Origin
Aeonium 'Firecracker Variegatum' is a form of the popular hybrid Aeonium 'Firecracker' selected for its variegated foliage.
Description
Aeonium 'Firecracker Variegatum' is a small succulent that forms an attractive mound of short branches that end in rosettes of variegated lance-shaped leaves with ciliate margins. The plant can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and become quite open in structure as it matures. The rosettes can reach up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. During the growing season, the leaves have a vibrant mix of lime green, cream, and pink colors, while during the dormancy and when stressed, they turn dark maroon and purple.
Flowering has not been observed to date.
How to Grow and Care for Aeonium 'Firecracker Variegatum'
Light: Aeonium 'Firecracker Variegatum' 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 'Firecracker Variegatum' 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 'Firecracker Variegatum' 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 'Firecracker Variegatum'
Aeonium 'Firecracker Variegatum' is considered non-toxic, so growing around children and pets is safe.
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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