Aeonium 'Firecracker' is a vibrant succulent that results from crossing the upright shrub Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop' with the smaller, clumping species Aeonium simsii. This crossbreeding produces a low, branching mound of striking, multicolored rosettes. Several hybrids, such as Aeonium 'Cornish Tribute', Aeonium 'Du Rozzen, Aeonium 'Logan Rock', and Aeonium 'Peacock', closely resemble Aeonium 'Firecracker', since they all have Aeonium simsii as one of their parent plants.
Taxonomy of Aeonium 'Firecracker'
Scientific Name
Aeonium 'Firecracker'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium
Etymology
The generic name "Aeonium" (pronounced "ee-OH-nee-um") means "long-lasting" and refers to the enduring, perennial nature of the plants in this genus.
The cultivar epithet 'Firecracker' reflects the plant's vibrant, eye-catching colors, especially in summer. The rosettes resemble an exploding firecracker, featuring a bright, glowing lime-green center surrounded by an immediate, striking burst of deep burgundy, maroon, or dark reddish-black outer leaves.
Forms of Aeonium 'Firecracker'
Origin of Aeonium 'Firecracker'
Aeonium 'Firecracker' is a hybrid that results from a cross between Aeonium simsii and Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'.
Description of Aeonium 'Firecracker'
Aeonium 'Firecracker' is a beautiful succulent that grows into a small mound of short branches that end in rosettes of colorful, lance-shaped leaves with ciliate margins. As it matures, the plant can become quite open in structure, reaching a height of up to 12 inches (30 cm). The rosettes can grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. Depending on the season and growing conditions, the color of the leaves changes, ranging from lime green in winter to dark reddish-black throughout the summer and when stressed.
Flowering has not been observed to date.
How to Grow and Care for Aeonium 'Firecracker'
Light: Aeonium 'Firecracker' 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' 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°F to 50°F (-1.1°C 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 summer dormancy, stop watering except in arid conditions.
Fertilizing: To stimulate growth and improve the plant's appearance, apply a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength only during the growing season.
Repotting: If growing Aeonium 'Firecracker' 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 in "How to Grow and Care for Aeonium."
Toxicity of Aeonium 'Firecracker'
Aeonium 'Firecracker' is considered non-toxic, so it is safe for growing around children and pets.
Photo Gallery
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Aeonium.
- Explore all plants within the family Crassulaceae.