Aeonium 'Verna'

Scientific Name

Aeonium 'Verna'

Scientific Classification

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

Origin

Aeonium 'Verna' is thought to have been introduced from Asia, although limited information is available on its origins.

Description

Aeonium 'Verna' is a stunning succulent that forms rosettes of variegated leaves showing shades of green, yellow, orange, and pink. It can reach a height of up to 18 inches (45 cm) and produces rings of offsets, forming an attractive dense clump of rosettes with age. The leaves are spoon-shaped with soft, pointed tips and ciliate margins. Their colors change depending on the season and growing conditions. During the winter, the leaves are green with yellow outer portions and only a small amount of orange and pink on the tips. The orange and pink tones gradually become more prominent in spring and most vibrant in summer.

Flowering has not been observed to date.

How to Grow and Care for Aeonium 'Verna'

Light: Aeonium 'Verna' 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 placing it in premade soil mixes designed for succulents since it needs more moisture than they typically provide.

Temperature: Aeonium 'Verna' does not like hot or dry weather, so it may go dormant in summer. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C).

Watering: Water the plant thoroughly in spring and fall, allowing the soil to dry before watering again. During the winter, water it more sparingly. Although this plant requires more water than most succulents, too much moisture can lead to root rot. During its dormancy in summer, stop watering except in arid conditions.

Fertilizing: To stimulate growth and improve the plant's appearance, apply a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength only during the growing season.

Repotting: If growing Aeonium 'Verna' in a container, repot it every two to three years during the spring. Choose a container 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 end to dry for several days before planting.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aeonium.

Toxicity of Aeonium 'Verna'

Aeonium 'Verna' is considered non-toxic, so growing around children and pets is safe.

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