Variegated Tree Aeonium Aeonium arboreum 'Variegatum' (v)
ABOUT
Aeonium arboreum 'Variegatum', commonly known as variegated tree houseleek, is a striking succulent that boasts rosettes of spoon-shaped leaves. The leaves are fleshy and have a creamy white to pale yellow variegation, which beautifully contrasts with the green background and often pinkish edges, giving it a distinct tricolor effect. This variegation is not consistent across all leaves, providing a unique and often random pattern that adds to its appeal. The foliage forms a symmetrical rosette that appears almost geometric in its precision. During the cooler months, the variegated tree houseleek can take on a slightly pinkish hue, further enhancing its decorative look. This attractive patterning makes the variegated tree houseleek a popular choice for succulent collections, rock gardens, and container arrangements. Its appearance is also appreciated for the added visual interest it brings to any setting, making it a favored plant among both novice and experienced gardeners.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Variegated Tree Aeonium, Variegated Houseleek Tree, Variegated Tree Houseleek, Variegated Irish Rose.
Common names
Sempervivum arboreum.
ToxicityTo humans
The Aeonium arboreum 'Variegatum', commonly known as variegated tree houseleek, is not known to be toxic to humans. However, as with any non-edible plant, ingesting parts of the plant may cause stomach upset or discomfort. It is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of children who might ingest them out of curiosity.
To pets
The variegated tree houseleek is not considered toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Ingestion of the plant might cause mild gastrointestinal distress due to the plant's nature, but it does not contain substances that are known to be poisonous to pets. Nonetheless, it is generally a good practice to prevent pets from eating plants to avoid any potential issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3 feet [0.91 meters]
Spread
2 feet [0.61 meters]
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Canary Islands
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance: Variegated aeonium requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for gardeners with limited time.
- Drought Tolerant: As a succulent, it is highly adapted to dry conditions and requires less frequent watering.
- Attractive Appearance: Its variegated leaves add visual interest to garden spaces or as part of indoor plant collections.
- Easy Propagation: It can easily be propagated from cuttings, which makes it simple to expand your collection or share with others.
- Adaptability: Variegated aeonium can grow in a range of soil types, as long as there is good drainage.
- Evergreen: This plant retains its leaves all year round, providing consistent greenery and visual appeal.
- Coastal Conditions: It is suited to coastal gardens, as it can tolerate salt spray and windy conditions.
- Container Friendly: It thrives in pots, which makes it suitable for balconies, patios, and indoor settings.
- Texture Contrast: Its rosette-shaped leaves provide a unique texture contrast when planted with other garden plants.
- Seasonal Interest: It can produce striking yellow flowers that add seasonal interest to its display.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: Aeonium arboreum 'Variegatum' provides a unique texture and pattern that photographers often use to add a dramatic effect to their compositions or portraits.
- Miniature Gardens: Its compact size and variegated leaves make it an excellent addition to fairy gardens or other miniature garden projects.
- Edging Plants: The striking appearance of this succulent can be used to create a decorative edge in a garden or along a walkway.
- Decorative Mulch Alternative: When the leaves fall, they can be used intact around the base of other plants as a decorative mulch that also retains moisture.
- Container Gardening: Aeonium arboreum 'Variegatum' is an attractive centerpiece for container gardening, especially in combination with other succulents.
- Themed Parties: Cuttings from the plant can be used to adorn table settings or party favors for a garden-themed or tropical event.
- Art Supplies: Dried or pressed leaves and flowers can be used in collages, mixed media art, and as natural brushes or stamps in painting.
- Wedding Decor: Due to its rosette shape and variegated colors, it can be used in bridal bouquets, boutonnieres, or as part of table centerpieces.
- Teaching Tool: Aeonium arboreum 'Variegatum' can be used in educational settings to teach about plant propagation, water conservation, and succulent care.
- Fashion Inspiration: The color patterns and form of the leaves can inspire textile designs, patterns, and accessories in the fashion industry.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Variegated Aeonium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Variegated Aeonium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience - Aeonium arboreum 'Variegatum', commonly known as Variegated Aeonium, is a succulent plant known for its ability to thrive in arid conditions. This characteristic makes the plant a symbol of resilience and the ability to endure and prosper in challenging environments.
- Change and Transformation - The Variegated Aeonium goes through cycles of growth and dormancy, where its leaves can change in appearance. This ability to adapt is often interpreted as a symbol of change and transformation, reflecting the plant's capacity to evolve with its surroundings.
- Beauty and Uniqueness - With its striking variegated leaves that have a pattern of multiple colors, the Variegated Aeonium is a symbol of natural beauty and uniqueness, showing that diversity and variation are aspects to be celebrated.
- Timelessness - Succulent plants like the Variegated Aeonium are often considered symbols of timelessness due to their long lifespan and enduring structures. They are reminders of the enduring aspects of nature and the persisting beauty in the world.
- Bounty - The rosette shape of the Variegated Aeonium's leaves and its tendency to grow in clusters is sometimes seen as a symbol of bounty and abundance, suggesting a gathering of resources and plenitude.
WaterFor the Aeonium Arboreum 'Variegatum', commonly known as Variegated Aeonium, watering should be done thoroughly allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. The exact frequency depends on the climate and indoor conditions, but generally, it can range from once a week to every other week. During the active growth period in spring and summer, water about every 7 to 10 days, using enough water to ensure it runs out the bottom of the pot, which could be around a quart for smaller pots or up to a gallon for larger containers. In the dormant season, which is typically the cooler winter months, reduce watering to every 3 to 4 weeks or less, depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment.
LightThe Variegated Aeonium prefers bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. It can also tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun, but the intense midday sun could scorch its leaves. A spot near a south-facing window with some light shade or dappled sunlight is ideal. If grown outdoors, partial shade with some protection during the hottest part of the day will keep the variegation of the leaves pronounced and vibrant.
TemperatureThe Variegated Aeonium thrives best in temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures of about 40 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost, which could damage the plant. During the summer, it can tolerate higher temperatures, but ensure it is not exposed to extreme heat for prolonged periods. Ideal growing conditions include maintaining a consistent temperature within the preferred range throughout the year.
PruningThe Variegated Aeonium should be pruned to remove dead or damaged leaves, to encourage a bushier growth habit, and to maintain its appearance. Pruning is best performed in the spring, when the plant begins its active growing period. The frequency of pruning depends on the plant's growth; during its growing season, you may prune every few weeks to remove any leggy stems. Always use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to prevent damaging the succulent tissue.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Variegated Aeonium prefers a well-draining soil mix, typically consisting of equal parts potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite or pumice. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH of about 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingVariegated Aeonium should be repotted every two to three years or when it has outgrown its current pot. It's best to repot during the plant's active growing season, usually spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingVariegated Aeonium thrives in average indoor humidity levels ranging from 40% to 60%. They are fairly adaptable and do not require high humidity environments to grow well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water sparingly.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and protect from harsh sun.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Aeonium arboreum 'Variegatum', commonly known as Variegated Tree Aeonium, begins with seed germination, where the plant sprouts from a seed in favorable conditions of warmth and moisture. The seedling stage follows, where it develops its first true leaves and a root system. This is followed by a juvenile vegetative stage, where the Variegated Tree Aeonium experiences significant growth, forming rosettes of variegated leaves on branching stems. As the plant matures, it enters the adult vegetative stage, characterized by the stem becoming woody and the plant reaching full size with larger rosette clusters. After several years, the plant may produce pyramidal inflorescences bearing yellow flowers once it reaches the flowering stage typically during the spring or early summer. Finally, after setting seed, the monocarpic stems of Aeonium arboreum 'Variegatum' die back, but the plant continues to grow and propagate through offsets formed around the base of the mother plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: For Aeonium arboreum 'Variegatum', commonly known as the variegated aeonium, the best propagation time is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The most popular method is through stem cuttings. To propagate, select a healthy stem and cut it with a sterile, sharp knife or pair of scissors, making sure the cutting is about 2 to 4 inches long (5 to 10 cm). Allow the cut end of the stem to callous over for a few days to prevent rotting. Once the end is calloused, plant the cutting in well-draining soil, water sparingly until the cutting establishes roots, and provide bright, indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks. After the cutting has rooted firmly, resume normal care for the variegated aeonium.
