Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested) is a striking mutation of the well-known succulent Aeonium 'Sunburst'. This mutation features flattened, fan-like stems, typically with a larger rosette at the center surrounded by numerous smaller rosettes of tightly packed, variegated leaves. Although this crested form was published as Aeonium 'Spreading Sun' by Harry Mak in the Photo Album of Succulents in Color, Volume 3 (March 2003), this name is not widely recognized. Therefore, the plant is typically referred to as Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested).
Taxonomy of Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested)
Scientific Name
Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested) – an informal descriptive name
Accepted Scientific Name
Aeonium 'Spreading Sun'
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 cultivar epithet 'Sunburst' refers to the yellow variegation on the leaves of this hybrid, which radiates from the center of the rosettes, giving the appearance of a sunburst.
Origin of Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested)
Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested) is a form of Aeonium 'Sunburst' selected for its crested (fasciated) growth. Aeonium 'Sunburst' is probably a variegated cultivar of Aeonium davidbramwellii.
Description of Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested)
Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested) is a fascinating succulent with flattened stems and rosettes surrounded by numerous smaller rosettes of tightly packed, variegated leaves. This form is smaller than the normal form of Aeonium 'Sunburst' but is more interesting in shape. The leaves are primarily green with irregular, creamy-yellow edges. When exposed to intense sunlight, the leaf edges take on a reddish-pink hue.
Each specimen has a unique shape and often displays both crested and normal growth simultaneously. The normal branches tend to grow faster than the crested ones and can eventually dominate the plant if not pruned away.
How to Grow and Care for Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested)
Light: Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested) 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 using pre-made soil mixes designed for succulents, as they typically provide less moisture than it needs.
Temperature: Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested) does not like hot or dry weather, so it may go dormant in the 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 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: Apply a water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half strength, only during the growing season to stimulate growth and improve the plant's appearance.
Repotting: If growing Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested) 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 stem cuttings. Take cuttings in spring and let the cut ends dry for several days before planting.
Learn more in "How to Grow and Care for Aeonium."
Toxicity of Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested)
Aeonium 'Sunburst' (crested) is considered non-toxic, so it is safe to grow around children and pets.
Photo Gallery
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Aeonium.
- Explore all plants within the family Crassulaceae.