Aichryson is a genus of about 15 species of small tender succulent plants and subshrubs, of which 10 species are Canary Islands endemics and others are from the Azores, Madeira, and Morocco.
They are related to the Canary Islands genera Sempervivum, Jovibarba, Greenovia, Aeonium, and Monanthes, readily seen in their similar flowers.
The fleshy leaves are pubescent to densely hairy. The inflorescence is a loose raceme of dozens to hundreds of yellow to greenish-yellow, star-shaped flowers.
Aichrysons grow as understory plants in the endemic laurel and pine forests of the Canary Islands and prefer to grow in slightly shaded, moist soil with plenty of humus. They tolerate a cool, frost-free winter kept fairly dry.
Some species are annuals or biennials, but the shrubby perennials also need to be restarted from cuttings regularly to be at their best. Many species produce volunteer seedlings around themselves after flowering.
Growing Conditions and General Care
Aichrysons are very tolerant of mixed conditions and will tolerate considerable shade as well as full sun. Given the right conditions, these plants will provide an incredible show of yellow flowers. Grow these plants with very little fertilizer because they can flower themselves to death. Aichrysons have a very structural trunk and make excellent bonsai subjects.
In winter, these plants require a rather sunny spot inside at moderately cool temperatures. If the plants become too large, they can be cut back. Cuttings will easily root within a few days. These small ornamental plants are excellent pot plants and thrive in any partially shaded spot at cool temperatures, e.g., on a windowsill.
Propagation
Aichrysons are easily propagated by cuttings in the spring. Just cut the rosette with a piece of stem and plant it.
Links
- Back to genus Aichryson
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus