Aeonium undulatum (Stalked Aeonium)

Scientific Name

Aeonium undulatum Webb & Berthel.

Common Name(s)

Stalked Aeonium

Synonym(s)

Aeonium youngianum

Scientific Classification

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium

Description

Aeonium undulatum is a succulent shrub with wavy, somewhat metallic-green leaves arranged in large rosettes on stout stems. It grows over 3.3 feet (1 m) tall, and it is one of the larger species in the genus. Leaves are spoon-shaped and up to 10 inches (25 cm) long. New rosettes do not branch off the stems but grow from the bottom, unlike most Aeoniums. Flowers are dark yellow and usually appear in summer in a terminal cluster rising to 20 inches (50 cm) above the foliage. The plant is monocarpic, so the flowering stem will die when it flowers, usually after about five years.

Aeonium undulatum (Stalked Aeonium) — *Photo via flickr.com*

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. They may go dormant in summer 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 to 75 °F (18 to 24 °C), and damp. In the winter, water whenever the soil has dried out. Test by poking your finger down into the soil an inch or 2 (2.5 to 5 cm). Too much moisture or allowing them to sit in wet soil will cause root rot.

A sandy loam or regular potting mix is better than a mix specifically for cacti and succulents since Aeoniums need some moisture. If you are growing them in containers, repot every 2 to 3 years with fresh potting soil.

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.