Despite its small size, Aeonium 'Madeira Rose Cristatum' is a fascinating plant.
Scientific Name
Aeonium 'Madeira Rose Cristatum'
Accepted Scientific Name
Aeonium 'Madeira Rose'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium
Description
Aeonium 'Madeira Rose Cristatum' is a strange succulent with flattened stems and fleshy leaves tightly packed along the top ridge. While smaller than normal Aeonium 'Madeira Rose', this plant has a more interesting form. Additionally, its leaves are also smaller than those of the normal form. The olive green leaves turn bronze in intense sunlight, creating a unique two-toned appearance. Each specimen has a unique shape, sometimes shooting out normal growth.
Origin
Aeonium 'Madeira Rose Cristatum' is a form of Aeonium 'Madeira Rose' selected for its crested growth.
How to Grow and Care for Aeonium 'Madeira Rose Cristatum'
Light: Aeonium 'Madeira Rose Cristatum' 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 'Madeira Rose Cristatum' 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 appearance of the plant, apply a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength only during the growing season.
Repotting: If growing Aeonium 'Madeira Rose Cristatum' 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 'Madeira Rose Cristatum'
Aeonium 'Madeira Rose Cristatum' is considered non-toxic, so it is safe for growing around children and pets.
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
Click on a photo to see a larger version.