Aeonium percarneum, also known as Aldasorea percarnea or Sempervivum percarneum, are succulent plants, native to the Canary Islands and belonging to the Crassulaceae family of plants. When grown indoors, they can reach 2-3 feet in height and spread out nearly 4 feet wide.
The leaves are dark green with reddish edges and come to a point in the center. Aeonium percarneum propagation techniques can be tricky, but with proper care, your plant should live up to 20 years if not longer.
They are succulent perennials that produce rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves and can be found as either tall or dwarf forms. Aldasorea percarnea is prized for its unusual aesthetic appearance, but it also makes an excellent addition to any garden or landscape because of its drought tolerance and resistance to most pests and diseases.
When cared for properly, this beautiful plant will flourish indoors or outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 9b through 11b as long as it’s kept in full sun.
Origin and distribution
Aeonium percarneum is a succulent native to the Canary Islands. It is closely related to the Sempervivum genus and is sometimes classified as a member of that group.
Aeonium percarneum is a small, slow-growing plant that forms rosettes of fleshy, green leaves. The leaves are often edged with red or purple and may develop a powdery coating in hot, dry conditions.
Sempervivum percarneum can be propagated by dividing established clumps into smaller pieces.
It is commonly grown as an ornamental houseplant but also grows well outdoors in temperate climates such as Southern California, where it has been planted on steep slopes near sea level up to 1200 meters elevation. In warmer areas, this species must be grown under glass for protection from excessive heat.
The nectar-producing flowers are white and borne singly at the top of thin stems which emerge from between the leaves during the summer months. These blooms give way to seed capsules bearing black seeds that germinate easily when buried in damp soil.
Aeonium percarneum propagation
Aeonium percarneum is a succulent that can be propagated by seed, offsets, or stem cuttings. To propagate by seed, sow the seeds in a well-draining cactus mix and keep them moist until they germinate. Offsets can be removed from the mother plant and replanted.
To propagate by stem cuttings, cut a stem with a sharp knife and allow it to callous for a few days before planting in a well-draining cactus mix. When caring for your Aldasorea percarnea, remember that this evergreen perennial requires bright light and cool conditions year-round.
It prefers dry soil but will tolerate water if its roots are properly drained. When watering your plants use only lukewarm water so as not to shock the roots.
Aeonium percarneum care information
Sempervivum percarneum, or aeonium percarneum, is a beautiful succulent that’s native to the Canary Islands. These plants are relatively easy to care for, but there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure your plant stays healthy and happy.
First, be sure to plant your aeonium in well-draining soil. Next, water your plant regularly, but be sure not to overwater – these plants are susceptible to root rot.
Light requirement
Aeonium percarneum is a sun-loving succulent. In its natural habitat, it grows in bright, full sun. However, it will also do well in partial sun or light shade. If you live in an area with hot summers, this plant will appreciate some afternoon shade to protect it from the harsh afternoon sun.
Soil/potting mix
Aeonium percarneum prefer a light, well-draining potting mix. You can use a commercial cactus mix or make your own by mixing together equal parts of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite. Be sure to add extra drainage holes to pots used for this plant.
Watering
Water your aeonium percarneum when the soil is dry to the touch. These plants are drought tolerant, so you don’t need to worry about watering them too often. However, during the hottest months of summer, you may need to water them more frequently. Allow the plant to dry out completely before watering it again.
Fertilizer
Aeoniums are light feeders that don’t need much fertilizer. If you do fertilize, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer and apply it sparingly. Too much fertilizer can cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown. To get your aeonium plant back on track, stop fertilizing for two weeks. After two weeks of not feeding your plant, resume with a diluted fertilizer once every three months.
Temperature
Aeonium percarneum is a succulent that thrives in warm climates. It is native to the Canary Islands, where temperatures range from 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit. In its natural habitat, the plant receives plenty of sunlight and warmth.
However, Aeonium percarneum can also tolerate some shade and cooler temperatures. If you live in a colder climate, it is best to grow this plant indoors where you can control the temperature.
Humidity
Aeonium percarneum thrive in high humidity and can tolerate lower humidity levels as long as they are not too dry. If the leaves start to brown or the plant looks wilted, it is an indication that the air is too dry. Try misting the leaves with water or placing the pot on a pebble tray to increase the humidity around the plant.
The ideal humidity range is 70-90% relative humidity. If the relative humidity drops below 60%, use a humidifier, such as those made for house plants.
Pruning
Aeonium percarneum is a fast-growing, evergreen succulent that can reach up to 2.5 m in height. It has a rosette growth habit and produces pink flowers in spring and summer. Pruning is only necessary if you want to control the plant’s size or shape.
To prune, simply cut back the stems to the desired length. Be sure to use sharp, clean shears to avoid damaging the plant. Make sure that each stem has an intact leaf at its base for proper healing. If you would like to propagate your plants, make two cuts along the stem where it meets the soil line and place them so they will root in water.
When to repot
Aeonium percarneum are fast growers and will quickly outgrow their pot. They need to be repotted every one to two years. The best time to repot is in the spring after the plant has flowered.
Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant thoroughly before repotting. Gently remove the plant from its current pot and replant in a slightly larger pot. Water well and allow the plant to dry out completely before watering again.
Dormancy/Winter rest
Aeonium percarneum is a summer-dormant species, meaning it will go through a winter rest period. During this time, the plant will lose its leaves and appear to die back. Don’t worry though, it’s perfectly normal! To help your plant through its dormancy, make sure to keep it on the drier side and give it plenty of light. It’s also important not to fertilize during this time.
Flowers & fragrance
The aeonium percarneum, also known as the Aldasorea percarnea, is a beautiful flowering plant that is characterized by its large, bright flowers that have a sweet fragrance.
Growth rate
Aeonium percarneum is a relatively fast-growing succulent. In ideal conditions, it can grow up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) in a single growing season. However, growth will slow down if the plant is not receiving enough light or if the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C).
To encourage faster growth, make sure to plant your Aeonium percarneum in well-draining soil and give it plenty of bright light.
Toxicity
Aeonium percarneum is considered to be non-toxic to humans and animals. However, it can cause skin irritation in some people. If you experience any adverse effects, discontinue use immediately and consult a doctor.
As with all plants, it is best to keep Aeonium percarneum out of reach of children and pets.
USDA hardiness zones
Aeonium percarneum thrives best in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. In zones 8 and colder, it needs to be grown indoors. It can also be used as a container plant if you keep it out of the cold.
Pests and diseases
These plants are generally very easy to grow and are not often bothered by pests or diseases. However, mealybugs can sometimes be a problem, particularly if the plant is grown indoors.
If you see any mealybugs, simply wipe them off with a damp cloth or pick them off by hand. These plants are also susceptible to root rot, so make sure to plant them in well-draining soil. Overall, as long as you give them the proper care, these plants will thrive.
