An introduction to the Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop' succulent, taking you into its world

Black mage, a domineering and aloof name. Don't misunderstand, though: the black mage here is a succulent plant. It grows upright and can reach about 1 m in height. Because its leaves easily turn black, a cool and aloof feeling hits you right away.

The black-purple leaves of the black mage grow at the ends of the branches, arranged in rosettes, much like blooming lotuses. It stands out among all kinds of ornamental plants and has high ornamental value. However, because the black leaves absorb more heat, the leaves tend to become soft when there is a lot of sunlight.

So how should this cool black mage be cared for?

1. In summer, when temperatures are high, the plant has a brief dormant period. At this time it grows slowly or stops growing completely. It can be placed in a well-ventilated spot for care, avoiding prolonged rain, with a little shading, watering restrained, and no fertilizing.

2. Spring, autumn and early summer are the plant's main growing seasons, and it should be given plenty of sunlight. Although it can also grow in partial shade, the area near the growing point will turn dark green, and the black-purple color of the leaves in other parts will also fade to light brown, affecting its ornamental value.

3. In addition, excessive nitrogen fertilizer in the soil and overly vigorous growth of the plant can also cause this phenomenon. Therefore, reduce the application of nitrogen fertilizer and replace it with Huadongde nutrient solution. Usually keep the potting soil a little dry; letting the plant grow a little more slowly will actually give better results.

4. In winter, if the minimum temperature is not lower than 10°C, water normally so the plant continues to grow, but there is no need to fertilize; if such a high temperature cannot be maintained, restrain watering to let the plant go dormant, and it can also tolerate low temperatures of 3-5°C.

5. Repot once every 1-2 years. The potting soil should be fertile and have good drainage. A common mix is 2 parts coarse sand or vermiculite, 1 part leaf mold, and 1 part garden soil, mixed evenly before use.

The world of the black mage is actually very simple: light, temperature, water and fertilizer, and even the aloofest black mage can be won over by you.