Scientific Name
Aeonium tabuliforme (Haw.) Webb & Berthel.
Synonym(s)
Sempervivum tabuliforme
Common Name(s)
Dinner Plate Aeonium, Dinner Plate Plant, Flat-Topped Aeonium, Saucer Plant
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium
Etymology
The specific epithet "tabuliforme" (pronounced "tab-yoo-LEE-form-ee") means "table-like; flat, plate-like" and refers to the distinctly flat, disc-shaped rosette of this species.
Origin
Aeonium tabuliforme is native to the Canary Islands (Tenerife). It grows on moist, north-facing cliffs and ledges at low altitudes.
Description
Aeonium tabuliforme is a biennial or short-lived perennial succulent that forms a flat, stemless, monocarpic rosette of pale to bright green leaves tightly appressed to each other. The rosette can reach a diameter of 16 inches (40 cm). The leaves are fleshy, more or less spoon-shaped, rounded at the tip, and end abruptly in a short, sharp point. They can measure up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length and 1.6 inches (4 cm) in width.
The flowers are star-shaped, pale yellow, and appear in large clusters on an erect stalk, usually in late spring. The flower cluster can reach a height of 15 inches (30 cm) and a nearly equal diameter.
Forms of Aeonium tabuliforme
Hybrids of Aeonium tabuliforme
How to Grow and Care for Aeonium tabuliforme
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Aeoniums do not like hot or dry weather. In summer, they may go dormant and require no water except in arid conditions. In extreme heat, their leaves will curl to prevent excessive water loss. Growing them in moist shade will keep them growing, but their true growth season is winter to spring when temperatures are cool, 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), and damp. In the winter, water the soil whenever it has dried out. Test by poking your finger down into the soil an inch or 2 (2.5 to 5 cm). Excessive moisture or leaving them in wet soil will cause root rot.
A sandy loam or regular potting mix is better than a mix designed specifically for cacti and succulents, as Aeoniums require some moisture. If you grow them in containers, repot them with fresh potting soil every 2 to 3 years.
Feed during the growing season with a half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so. Do not feed while dormant.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aeonium.
Links
- Back to genus Aeonium
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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