Tree Houseleek Aeonium 'Velour'

Water

Aeonium 'Velour', commonly known as Velvet Rose, should be watered thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch, which is approximately every 7 to 10 days during active growth in spring and summer. Reduce watering to every other week during the dormant period in the cooler months. When watering, soak the soil until water runs out of the drainage holes, which might be about a half to one gallon for a medium-sized pot. Overwatering can cause root rot, so make sure the potting mix is well-draining and never let the plant sit in waterlogged soil.

Light

Velvet Rose requires plenty of sunlight to maintain its vibrant coloration, preferring partial to full sun conditions. It thrives best when placed in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, such as a south or west-facing window. Avoid intense direct sunlight in hot climates which can scorch the leaves, so a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade would be ideal.

Temperature

Velvet Rose does well in a temperature range between 40°F to 80°F. It can tolerate temperatures down to about 30°F, but for short periods and as long as the plant is dry. However, the ideal temperature range is 65°F to 75°F for optimal growth. Extended exposure to temperatures outside these ranges can stress the plant and may lead to damage.

Pruning

Pruning Velvet Rose is often done to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any damaged or unhealthy leaves. The best time to prune is in early spring before the growth season begins. Depending on the plant's appearance and health, pruning may be done annually. Always use clean, sharp shears and cut above a leaf node or rosette.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Aeonium 'Velour', commonly known as 'Velour' aeonium, thrives in a well-draining soil mix, such as a combination of cactus potting soil and perlite or pumice in a ratio of about 3:1. The ideal soil pH for 'Velour' aeonium should be between 6.0 and 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.

Repotting

'Velour' aeonium should generally be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate growth. Spring is the optimal time for repotting this succulent to benefit from the active growing season.

Humidity & Misting

'Velour' aeonium prefers low to moderate humidity levels typical of its native environment. Aim to maintain humidity levels below 65% to avoid moisture-related issues and maintain the plant's health.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place 'Velour' aeonium near a sunny window; avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Plant 'Velour' aeonium in bright, dappled sunlight, shelter from heavy rain.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

The Aeonium 'Velour' begins its life as a seed, which when sown in well-draining soil and given appropriate warmth and light, will germinate and sprout into a seedling. As it grows, it forms a rosette of fleshy leaves and a thick stem, a characteristic juvenile stage for Aeoniums. During its vegetative stage, the Aeonium 'Velour' continues to produce new rosettes and may branch out, often becoming a small shrub in shape and size. When mature and under suitable conditions, it will enter the flowering stage, sending up a tall flowering spike from the center of the rosette, which after pollination, produces seed capsules containing new seeds. Post flowering, the individual rosette that has bloomed will typically die off, a process known as monocarpic senescence, but the plant can continue to live and produce blooms through its other rosettes. Eventually, after several years and multiple flowering cycles, the Aeonium 'Velour' will complete its lifecycle, with the entire plant dying after it has expended its energy reserves, although it often leaves behind offsets or seeds to continue its lineage.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• Aeonium 'Velour', commonly known for its rich, velvety leaves, is best propagated during its active growth period in spring and early summer. The most popular method of propagation for Aeonium 'Velour' is through stem cuttings. To propagate, select a healthy-looking stem and cut it using a sharp, sterilized knife or scissors, making sure the cutting is about 2 to 4 inches long (5 to 10 centimeters). Allow the cut end of the stem to callous over for a few days to prevent rotting when planted. Once calloused, insert the cutting into a well-draining soil mix, ideally cactus or succulent potting mix. Water sparingly until roots develop and the plant becomes established, tapering water to avoid over-hydration as Aeoniums are drought-tolerant plants. With proper care, the cutting will root and eventually grow into a new Aeonium 'Velour' plant, showcasing its distinctive foliage.