A compact, succulent, evergreen subshrub to around 50cm in height, with an open habit and large rosettes of variegated fleshy leaves which are dark red to black when dormant, changing to pinks, greens, purples and white during the growing season. The heads can become very large when mature and these may produce spikes of small, star-shaped, pale yellow flowers in summer
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow in pots of peat-free, loam-based compost with added extra grit. Position in a sunny spot for the best leaf colouration; aeonium will tolerate some shade but the leaves become green. Water moderately when in growth, not at all when dormant. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser 2 or 3 times during the growing season. In winter move plants to a frost-free greenhouse or conservatory. See hardy cacti and succulent cultivation for further information
Propagate by seed sown at 19-24ºC in spring or by cuttings of rosettes kept at 18ºC and barely moist until rooted
No pruning required
May be susceptible to aphids, vine weevil grubs and mealybugs
May be susceptible to aphids, vine weevil grubs and mealybugs