Aeonium 'Lily Pad'

Scientific Name

Aeonium 'Lily Pad'

Scientific Classification

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium

Origin

Aeonium 'Lily Pad' is a hybrid that results from a cross, possibly between Aichryson tortuosum var. bethencourtianum (formerly known as Aeonium bethencourtianum) and Aeonium lindleyi.

Description

Aeonium 'Lily Pad' is a succulent shrublet that forms flat, open rosettes of thick, bright green leaves at the end of the branches. It can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall, while the rosettes can reach a diameter of 6 inches (15 cm). The rosettes produce offsets from the base of their lower leaves. In full sun, the older leaves show lovely shades of orange and yellow.

After a few years, a stalk with yellow to orange, star-shaped flowers emerges from each mature rosette, usually in spring.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °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 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 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.

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