How to grow Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'? Detailed care methods and precautions

1. Light and temperature

It likes warm, bright areas, is resistant to drought, and can endure severe cold down to -2°C. If the temperature drops below -3°C, it will look a little sluggish, but as long as the temperature rises it can recover.

If it is kept in a shady area for a long time, its leaf color will become lighter, it will easily grow leggy, and the leaf stalks will become very thin and weak, but this variety is actually relatively easy to grow; as long as you pay attention to the light, it will stay lush and green. Its growing temperature range is -2°C to 45°C, and in winter it is best to move it indoors. In summer, do not leave it under strong light for a long time, and give it appropriate shade with a cover.

2. Soil

Its soil is best if it is fertile, relatively airy and well-draining, for example using coal cinder mixed with some peat and vermiculite, and then you can spread some river sand on the surface of the soil. In cooler climates, its growth is visible, but in summer, because it is too hot, it will stop growing for a short time.

3. Pruning

If you want it to propagate, in early spring you can cut off its leaf rosette and insert it into the soil, and tiller buds will grow from the stem. This variety is very easy to propagate. If you do not prune it, it can also grow very tall and develop a beautiful old stump. It occasionally gets small insects, which can be removed directly with a paper towel.

4. Watering

If it is newly planted, there is no need to water it for the first 3 days. In spring and autumn, water it once every 5-7 days; in hot weather, water it once every half month; in cold winter, water it once every 15-20 days. It grows especially fast in winter, so after sprinkling water on it, it is best to let it dry out a bit to help it grow better. Generally, watering at around ten in the morning is best. It is best to use a misting method, and do not get the leaves and flowers wet.