Aeonium 'Pink Witch'

Scientific Name

Aeonium 'Pink Witch'

Scientific Classification

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

Origin

Aeonium 'Pink Witch' is thought to be a mutation of Aeonium 'Blushing Beauty'.

Description

Aeonium 'Pink Witch' is a beautiful, compact succulent that forms variegated rosettes of leaves showing shades of pink, green, and white. It can grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall and produces rings of offsets at an early age, quickly forming an attractive clump. The spoon-shaped leaves have soft, pointed tips and slightly ciliate margins. Their colors change depending on the season and growing conditions. During the winter, the leaves are green with white outer portions and only a small amount of pink on the margins. The pink tones slowly became more apparent in spring, reaching their most vibrant state in summer.

Flowering has not been observed to date.

How to Grow and Care for Aeonium 'Pink Witch'

Light: Aeonium 'Pink Witch' 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 the plant receives as much bright, indirect light as possible to prevent it 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 'Pink Witch' 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 the spring and fall, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. During the winter, water it more sparingly. Although this plant requires more water than most succulents, too much moisture can lead to root rot. Stop watering except in arid conditions during its summer dormancy.

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 you're growing Aeonium 'Pink Witch' in a container, repot it every 2 to 3 years in the spring. Choose a container with drainage holes to prevent root rot from occurring.

Propagation: This plant is easy to propagate by stem cuttings. Take cuttings during the growing season and allow the cut ends to dry for several days before planting.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aeonium.

Toxicity of Aeonium 'Pink Witch'

Aeonium 'Pink Witch' is considered non-toxic, so it is safe for growing around children and pets.

Photo Gallery

Click on a photo to see a larger version.