Tree Houseleek Aeonium 'Du Rozzen'

Water

The Aeonium 'Du Rozzen', commonly known as Tree Houseleek, should be watered thoroughly but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. This drought-tolerant plant prefers less water than more humid-loving plants, typically needing water once every two weeks during the active growing season. In the winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce watering to once a month or less, depending on the humidity of your environment. When you do water, apply enough to soak the soil evenly, which might be around 8 to 16 ounces, depending on pot size. Be wary of overwatering as this can lead to root rot, a common issue with succulents.

Light

The Tree Houseleek thrives best in a spot that receives plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sun, but in very hot climates, it's beneficial to provide afternoon shade to prevent sunburn. Ideally, place your Tree Houseleek in a location where it receives at least six hours of sunlight daily, such as a south or west-facing window for those living in the Northern Hemisphere.

Temperature

For the Tree Houseleek, an ideal temperature range lies between 65°F and 75°F. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F and as high as 90°F, but prolonged exposure to extremes can be detrimental. Avoid placing the plant near drafty windows or vents where it could experience sudden temperature fluctuations.

Pruning

Pruning the Tree Houseleek is generally done to remove any dead or damaged leaves and to maintain its shape. It is best to prune in the springtime, just before the growing season begins. Occasional pruning also encourages fresh growth and can be done every few years as needed. Use sharp, clean shears to make precise cuts and reduce the risk of infection.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Aeonium 'Du Rozzen,' commonly known as Tree Houseleek, requires well-draining soil with a pH of around 6.0 to 7.5. A mixture of one part perlite, one part coarse sand, and two parts potting soil creates an ideal mix. This blend ensures adequate drainage to prevent root rot, which is crucial for the health of the succulent.

Repotting

Tree Houseleeks, like Aeonium 'Du Rozzen,' should be repotted approximately every two to three years. Repotting should be done during the growing season, typically spring or early summer, to allow the plant to acclimate and establish its root system in the fresh soil.

Humidity & Misting

Tree Houseleeks, such as Aeonium 'Du Rozzen,' prefer dry to moderate humidity conditions. They thrive in humidity levels typical of indoor environments, around 40% to 50%. These plants are adaptable to less humid conditions and require no extra atmospheric moisture than what's generally found in a household.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light and ensure good air flow.

• Outdoor

  Grow in partial sun, sheltered from harsh afternoon rays.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Aeonium 'Du Rozzen', commonly known as tree houseleek, starts its life as a seed, often sprouting within a soil mixture that's well-draining and sandy. As a juvenile, it develops a small rosette of succulent leaves and begins to establish a shallow root system. As it matures, the rosette expands, and the plant forms a woody stem that may branch, creating multiple rosettes and reaching its full size which can be several feet high. During its reproductive stage, usually in the spring or early summer, it produces pyramidal inflorescences with numerous small, star-shaped flowers. After flowering, which is often triggered by stress or a seasonal stimulus, the main rosette that has bloomed typically dies, but the plant continues to live on through offsets or pups that grow from the base or branches. The life span of an Aeonium 'Du Rozzen' can vary, but with proper care, it can live for several years, going through multiple cycles of growth and reproduction.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Aeonium 'Du Rozzen', also known as Aeonium 'Zwartkop', is a popular succulent plant that can be propagated mainly through cuttings. The optimal time for propagation is during its active growth phase, which is typically in the spring or early summer. To propagate by cuttings, a healthy leaf or stem is selected and cleanly snipped off using a sharp, sterilized knife or scissors. The cut end of the leaf or stem should be allowed to callous over for a few days before it is placed in soil. A well-draining cactus or succulent mix is the ideal medium for rooting. The cutting should be placed just on top of the soil, ensuring that the calloused end is in contact with the soil. The soil should be kept slightly moist but not wet, and the cutting should be placed in a warm spot with indirect light until roots have developed, which usually takes a few weeks. After the cutting has rooted and shows signs of growth, it can be cared for like a mature plant.