Aeonium leucoblepharum is a succulent flowering plant in the family Crassulaceae. The pointed leaves have a strong central stripe, and they may develops pinkish colour on exposure to strong sunlight. There are variants with less pointed leaves but still with the central stripe. The flowers are yellow, 7- to 10-merous, with petals 6 – 8 x 1.8 – 2.5 mm. The species is native to mountains in Yemen and north-eastern Africa, from Ethiopia and Somalia to Kenya and Uganda. It is also known as Sempervivum leucoblepharum and Sempervivum chrysanthum.
Aeonium leucoblepharum has moderate disease resistance and is relatively sensitive to humidity. High humidity makes it prone to disease, and it is susceptible to root rot during dormancy. Regarding care, it tolerates drought but requires more frequent watering in its growing season. Watering should be sharply reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. This species is better suited to growers with some experience, as it can be challenging to care for, particularly during dormancy. It is especially appropriate for those who can spend time tending to it during the winter months.
How to keep Aeonium Leucoblepharum.
Light
Originating from arid areas, Aeonium leucoblepharum grows best in full sun, since its native habitat has strong sunlight and little shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, providing some flexibility in its growth.
Water
Aeonium leucoblepharum thrives in arid conditions and requires minimal watering, needing hydration only every three weeks. This evergreen plant prefers well-drained soil, similar to its native habitat, which balances moisture and dryness. Its resilience makes it ideal for growing outdoors.
Temperature
Aeonium leucoblepharum can tolerate some heat, but it prefers and grows best in cooler seasons and becomes dormant in summer. In hot summer weather, it should be given shade to avoid scorching from strong sunlight. Watering ought to be reduced or stopped during the hottest part of the year to prevent root rot. The plant grows vigorously in winter and spring. If temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
For Aeonium leucoblepharum, small applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are sufficient. Avoid fertilizing in winter and summer when the plant is dormant. Reduce the amount of fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying fertilizer. Fertilizing promotes healthy growth and encourages blooms.
Pruning
To maintain the shape of an Aeonium leucoblepharum, prune any excess or dense branches in the spring and fall using a knife or scissors. For propagation, cut a sturdy stem with 5 to 6 leaves, treat the cut area with sulfur powder, and allow it to heal before planting. Use slightly moist soil when planting.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Aeonium
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 76 cm
- Mature Spread
- 49 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Pale Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Native Area
- Somalia, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Yemen, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania
Other names.
