Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum is a small, densely branched succulent subshrub endemic to Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, Spain. It is similar to Aichryson tortuosum subsp. tortuosum, but they differ in their leaves. The leaves of Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum are covered with non-glandular hairs, while the latter's leaves have glandular hairs.
Taxonomy of Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum
Scientific Name
Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum (Bolle) Bañares
Synonym(s)
Aeonium bethencourtianum, Aichryson bethencourtianum, Aichryson tortuosum var. bethencourtianum, Macrobia bethencourtiana, Sempervivum bethencourtianum
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aichryson
Etymology
The generic name "Aichryson" (pronounced "eye-KRIS-on") means "ever-golden" and refers to the golden-yellow flowers of plants in the genus.
The subspecific epithet "bethencourtianum" (pronounced "bet-en-cort-ee-AH-num") honors Jean de Béthencourt🡕 (1362–1425), a French explorer who led an expedition to the Canary Islands in 1402 and first landed on Lanzarote's north side.
Description
Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum, also known as Aichryson bethencourtianum, is a densely branched succulent shrublet with more or less woody branches that bears hairy, green leaves often tinged purplish-red. It can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall. The leaves are obovate and can measure up to 0.7 inches (1.8 cm) long, 0.4 inches (1 cm) wide, and 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) thick.
In late spring or summer, Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum produces star-shaped flowers with 8 to 9 golden-yellow petals and hairy sepals the same color as the leaves. The flowers appear in few-flowered clusters on leafy stalks and can reach up to 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) in diameter.
Origin
Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum is native to the Canary Islands. It occurs in humid rocks on the island of Fuerteventura.
Forms of Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum
Hybrids of Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum
How to Grow and Care for Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum
Light: Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum thrives in full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers slightly shaded areas during summer, especially in the hotter afternoon hours. When growing indoors, ensure the plant receives plenty of bright, indirect light to prevent it from becoming leggy and stretched.
Soil: Unlike most succulents, this plant requires sandy loam or regular potting soil amended with perlite. Avoid premade succulent mixes, as this plant needs more moisture than they typically provide.
Temperature: Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum does not like hot or dry weather, so it may go dormant in summer. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 25°F to 50°F (- 3.9°C to 10°C).
Watering: Water the plant thoroughly in the spring and fall, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. During the winter, water it more sparingly. Although this plant needs more water than most succulents, too much moisture can cause root rot. Stop watering except in arid conditions during its summer dormancy.
Fertilizing: Apply a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength during the growing season to stimulate growth and improve the plant's appearance.
Repotting: If growing Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum in a container, repot it as needed during the spring. Choose a container with drainage holes to prevent root rot.
Propagation: This plant can be easily propagated by stem cuttings or seeds. Take cuttings during the growing season, and let the cut ends dry for several days before planting. The best time to sow seeds is in spring.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aichryson.
Toxicity of Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum
Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum is considered non-toxic, making it safe to grow around children and pets.
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Aichryson.
- Explore all plants within the family Crassulaceae.