Scientific Name
Aeonium undulatum Webb & Berthel.
Common Name(s)
Saucer Plant, Stalked Aeonium
Synonym(s)
Aeonium youngianum, Sempervivum undulatum, Sempervivum yongianum, Sempervivum youngianum
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium
Etymology
The specific epithet "undulatum" (pronounced "un-dew-LAY-tum") means "wavy, undulated" and refers to the wavy leaves of this species.
Origin
Aeonium undulatum is native to the Canary Islands (Gran Canaria). It grows on rocky outcrops or north-facing slopes, often in the laurel or pine forests at elevations that range from 980 to 4,920 feet (300 to 1,500 m).
Description
Aeonium undulatum is a succulent shrub with spoon-shaped leaves, which are arranged in large rosettes at the end of stout branches. The plant can grow over 6.6 feet (2 m) tall, and it is one of the tallest species of the genus. It is often unbranched or has a few branches at the base. The leaves can measure up to 7.2 inches (18 cm) in length and 2 inches (5 cm) in width. They are typically dark green, often with reddish hues along the margins and near the tips
The flowers are yellow, star-shaped, 9- to 12-merous, and appear in a large conical cluster on a stalk that can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) long. The flower clusters can reach a height of 20 inches (50 cm) and a diameter of 16 inches (40 cm). The plant is monocarpic, so the flowering stem will die when it flowers, usually after about five years.
Hybrids of Aeonium undulatum
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 50°F (10°C).
How to Grow and Care
Aeoniums do not like hot or dry weather. In summer, they may go dormant and do not require any 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 plant whenever the soil has dried out—test by poking your finger into the soil an inch or two (2.5 to 5 cm). Excessive moisture or leaving it in wet soil will cause root rot.
A sandy loam or regular potting mix is preferable to a soil mix specifically designed 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.
See 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
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
