Aeonium sedifolium, commonly known as the Dwarf Aeonium, has the smallest leaves of any Aeonium species. Native to the dry, volcanic cliffs of the Canary Islands, this miniature succulent subshrub is highly valued for its small rosettes of incredibly plump leaves with distinct red-crimson striping. As it matures, it develops into an intricately branched, woody structure that resembles a living bonsai tree.
Taxonomy of Aeonium sedifolium
Scientific Name
Aeonium sedifolium (Webb ex Bolle) Pit. & Proust.
Synonym(s)
Aichryson sedifolium, Greenovia sedifolia, Sempervivum masferreri, Sempervivum sedifolium
Common Name(s)
Dwarf Aeonium
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 specific epithet "sedifolium" (pronounced "sed-ih-FOH-lee-um") means "Sedum-leaved" and refers to the resemblance of the plant's leaves to those of members of the genus Sedum.
Description
Aeonium sedifolium is a small, densely branched succulent shrub with stems that bear small rosettes of glossy, green to yellowish-green leaves with reddish stripes and many brownish lines near the tips. It can grow up to 16 inches (40 cm) tall, while the rosettes can reach a diameter of 1.2 inches (3 cm). The leaves are ovate or obovate, measuring up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) long, 0.4 inches (1 cm) wide, and 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) thick.
In spring, Aeonium sedifolium produces yellow, star-shaped, 9- to 11-merous flowers in clusters on stalks up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) tall.
Origin
Aeonium sedifolium is native to the Canary Islands. It occurs in Tenerife (Teno massif), northern La Palma, and La Gomera at about 3,280 feet (1,000 m) above sea level.
Hybrids of Aeonium sedifolium
How to Grow and Care for Aeonium sedifolium
Light: Aeonium sedifolium thrives in full sun to partial shade, but in summer, it may need light shade, especially during the hotter afternoon hours. When growing indoors, ensure it receives as much bright indirect light as possible to prevent it from becoming leggy and stretched.
Soil: Unlike most succulents, this plant requires sandy loam or a standard potting soil amended with perlite. Avoid pre-made succulent mixes, as they typically hold less moisture than this plant needs.
Temperature: Aeonium sedifolium 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. Water it more sparingly during the winter. While this plant needs more water than most succulents, too much moisture can cause root rot. Stop watering except in arid conditions during summer dormancy.
Fertilizing: To promote healthy growth, apply a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Feed only during the growing season.
Repotting: If growing Aeonium sedifolium in a container, repot it every 2 to 3 years in spring. Choose a container with drainage holes to prevent root rot.
Propagation: This plant is easy to propagate by taking cuttings in spring. Before planting, let the cut end dry for several days. You can also start it from seeds. For best results, sow the seeds in spring.
Learn more in "How to Grow and Care for Aeonium."
Toxicity of Aeonium sedifolium
Aeonium sedifolium 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.
Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Aeonium.
- Explore all plants within the family Crassulaceae.