Aeonium 'Shaohua' is a striking, low-maintenance succulent that showcases a vibrant array of colors, including yellow, green, pink, red, and purple. It is one of the many variegated Aeonium introductions from China.
Taxonomy of Aeonium 'Shaohua'
Scientific Name
Aeonium 'Shaohua'
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 hybrid name "Shaohua" is derived from the Chinese 韶华 (sháo huá), a poetic term meaning "the splendor or prime years of youth," aptly reflecting the plant's beauty, elegance, and fleeting brilliance.
Description of Aeonium 'Shaohua'
Aeonium 'Shaohua' is an eye-catching succulent subshrub with branches adorned with colorful rosettes of variegated leaves at their ends. It can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall. The leaves are spoon-shaped with a soft, pointed tip and have short cilia along the margins. New leaves emerge pale yellow, with fresh green bands at the edges, and gradually change to pink and rich red, with deeper red-purple, almost black bands on the margins. The colors of the leaves can vary depending on the seasons and growing conditions. They tend to be darker in the summer and under intense sunlight, while they lighten in the winter and in low-light conditions.
As of now, flowering has not been observed in Aeonium 'Shaohua'.
Origin of Aeonium 'Shaohua'
Aeonium 'Shaohua' originates from China and is believed to be a sport of Aeonium 'Pink Witch'.
How to Grow and Care for Aeonium 'Shaohua'
Light: Aeonium 'Shaohua' thrives in full sun to partial shade. However, during the summer months, especially in the hotter afternoon hours, it may benefit from light shade. If growing indoors, ensure the plant receives plenty of bright, indirect light to prevent it from becoming leggy and stretched.
Soil: Unlike most succulents, this plant requires sandy loam or regular potting soil amended with perlite. Avoid using pre-made soil mixes designed for succulents, as they typically provide less moisture than this plant needs.
Temperature: Aeonium 'Shaohua' does not like hot or dry weather, so it may go dormant in summer. It is hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a-11b, which have average annual extreme 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 out between waterings. During the winter, reduce watering. Although this plant requires more water than most succulents, excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Stop watering during summer dormancy, except in arid conditions.
Fertilizing: During the growing season, apply a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength to stimulate growth and enhance the plant's appearance.
Repotting: If you're growing Aeonium 'Shaohua' in a container, repot it every 2 to 3 years in the spring. Always choose a pot 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 ends to dry for several days before planting.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aeonium.
Toxicity of Aeonium 'Shaohua'
Aeonium 'Shaohua' is considered non-toxic, making it safe for children and pets to grow around.
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Aeonium.
- Explore all plants within the family Crassulaceae.