Sunburst Aeonium Aeonium 'Sunburst' (v)

Water

The Sunburst Aeonium should be watered thoroughly once the soil has become completely dry, typically every 7 to 10 days during active growth in the spring and fall. During the summer dormancy period, water sparingly, only once every 2-3 weeks, to prevent root rot. In the winter, watering frequency should be reduced further due to cooler temperatures and reduced evaporation rates. When watering, it is crucial to avoid getting water on the rosettes as this can cause rot. Pour water directly onto the soil until it begins to run out of the bottom of the pot, which might take approximately 8 to 16 ounces for a small to medium-sized pot.

Light

Sunburst Aeoniums thrive in bright but indirect sunlight. They prefer a spot that receives partial sun to light shade, ideally getting morning light and protection from the intense afternoon sun that could scorch their leaves. An east or west-facing window provides optimal light conditions indoors, while a shaded spot outside that gets dappled sunlight is perfect for growth.

Temperature

Sunburst Aeonium prefers a temperature range between 40°F and 80°F to thrive. It can withstand minimum temperatures of around 40°F but should be protected from frost. The ideal temperature range for this succulent is between 65°F and 75°F. Extreme temperatures that fall outside of these ranges may negatively impact the health of the Aeonium.

Pruning

Pruning Sunburst Aeonium is primarily done to remove any damaged or dying leaves and to encourage a more compact and bushier growth habit. It should be pruned in the spring or early summer, just before the plant's active growing period. Pruning can be done every year or as needed when you notice damaged parts or if the plant becomes leggy.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Sunburst Aeonium thrives in a well-draining soil mix composed of one-third potting soil, one-third perlite or coarse sand, and one-third organic matter like peat or coir. The ideal soil pH should be mildly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0.

Repotting

Sunburst Aeonium should be repotted every two to three years or when it becomes rootbound. The repotting is best done during its dormancy period, which is in the summer for Aeoniums.

Humidity & Misting

Sunburst Aeonium prefers low to moderate humidity levels, typical of arid environments, as it is susceptible to rot in high humidity conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good ventilation.

• Outdoor

  Needs full to partial sun, shelter from harsh midday rays.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Aeonium 'Sunburst' (commonly known as Sunburst Aeonium) begins its life when a seed germinates in well-draining soil and adequate sunlight. The seedling stage is characterized by the emergence of a small rosette of variegated leaves, which expands as the plant enters the vegetative stage. During this stage, the rosette grows larger and may produce additional offsets (baby plants) that can be separated to propagate new individuals. The plant continues to mature and can enter a dormant phase during hot and dry periods, where growth slows significantly. After several years, it reaches the flowering stage, producing a tall inflorescence with yellow, star-shaped flowers, after which the main rosette usually dies. This cycle is perpetuated by the seeds from the flowers or the growth of offsets that replace the parent rosette.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The Aeonium 'Sunburst', also known as Copper Pinwheel, is most commonly propagated through stem cuttings, especially during its active growth period in spring or early summer. To do this, a healthy stem is selected and cut with a sharp, sterilized knife or pair of scissors, leaving a stem length of about 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters). The cut end should be allowed to callous over for a few days to prevent rotting when planted. After the end has healed, the cutting can be placed in well-draining soil. Care should be taken to keep the soil lightly moist, and the cutting should be kept in bright, indirect sunlight until new growth indicates that rooting has occurred.