Simsii Aeonium Aeonium simsii
ABOUT
Aeonium simsii, commonly known as Sempervivum, is a distinctive succulent with a rosette growth pattern. The leaves of the plant are fleshy and thick, typically forming a tight cluster. They have a glossy appearance and can have a green to reddish hue depending on the level of sun exposure and other environmental factors. Edges of the leaves might be tinged with a darker color, creating a beautiful contrast with the overall leaf color. The leaves usually spiral around the center of the rosette, creating a symmetrical pattern that is pleasing to the eye. The plant may produce flowers on a stalk that emerges from the center of the rosette, and these flowers are often yellow or pink. As a succulent, Sempervivum is adept at storing water within its leaves, making it a fleshy and somewhat plump plant to the touch. The surface of the leaves can be smooth with a waxy coating to help retain moisture. The plant is known for its durability and ability to withstand dry conditions once established.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Simsii's Aeonium, Sims's Pinwheel, Aeonium Pinwheel
Common names
Sempervivum simsii, Aichryson simsii, Aeonium glandulosum, Aeonium tabuliforme var. simsii.
ToxicityTo humans
Aeoniums, generally speaking, are not listed as poisonous to humans. However, any plant material may cause a reaction in certain individuals if ingested or if the sap comes into contact with the skin. That being said, ingestion of Aeoniums might cause stomach discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea in some people. It is always advisable to keep plants away from small children who might put parts of the plant in their mouths out of curiosity.
To pets
Aeoniums are not commonly known to be toxic to pets; they are typically safe around cats and dogs. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion of large quantities could potentially lead to gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, or diarrhea in some pets. If a pet ingests a part of an Aeonium and you notice any signs of illness, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian. It's best practice to keep plants out of reach of pets to avoid any potential issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Canary Islands
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative appeal: Aeonium simsii, commonly known as the Irish Rose, has a unique rosette shape and green to purplish leaves, which make it a visually appealing addition to any plant collection.
- Drought tolerance: As a succulent, the Irish Rose is well adapted to withstand periods of drought, making it a good choice for water-wise gardens or for those who tend to forget to water their plants.
- Easy propagation: Leaf cuttings or offsets from the Irish Rose can easily be used to propagate new plants, which allows for easy sharing among gardeners or expanding one's own collection.
- Low maintenance: The plant requires minimal care, thriving in well-draining soil with infrequent watering, which suits those with a busy lifestyle or beginners in gardening.
- Container gardening: It is well-suited for growing in containers, which means it can be kept on balconies, patios, or indoors, offering flexibility in gardening space.
- Seasonal interest: During its flowering season, the Irish Rose produces a tall bloom stalk with yellow flowers, adding seasonal interest and color to plant arrangements.
- Diverse landscaping: Its unique form and texture provide contrast when planted alongside different plants in rock gardens, succulent gardens, or xeriscapes.
- Hardiness: Aeonium simsii is quite hardy and can survive in varying temperatures, although it prefers a Mediterranean climate.
- Pest resistance: Generally, succulents like the Irish Rose are resistant to pests, which reduces the need for chemical interventions.
- Long lifespan: As a perennial, the Irish Rose can live for many years under the right conditions, offering a long-term presence in the garden or home.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Subjects: Aeoniums, with their rosette patterns and colors, are popular photography subjects for plant enthusiasts and can add interest to botanical photo collections.
- Bonsai Simulation: Some gardeners use Aeoniums, including Aeonium simsii, to create succulent bonsai due to their tree-like forms and ease of pruning.
- Educational Tools: These plants can be used in educational settings to teach about plant adaptation, particularly succulence in arid environments.
- Theme Gardens: Aeonium simsii can be incorporated into drought-tolerant or Mediterranean-themed gardens to enhance the aesthetic of these landscapes.
- Artistic Inspiration: The unique form and structure of Aeonium simsii can serve as inspiration for artists, particularly those who focus on botanical art.
- Living Roofs: Succulents like Aeonium simsii can be used in living roof installations, adding to urban biodiversity and providing insulation.
- Ground Cover: Low-growing varieties of Aeonium simsii can be utilized as ground covers in suitable climates, helping to reduce soil erosion.
- Fantasy and Film: Their otherworldly appearance can be featured in fantasy gardens or as set décor in science fiction and fantasy films.
- Culinary Display: While not edible, Aeonium simsii can add visual appeal when used as a non-toxic garnish for creative plating in haute cuisine.
- Seasonal Decorations: Their rosettes and coloration provide a natural option for creating living seasonal decorations, such as wreaths or table centerpieces, especially when combined with other succulents.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant_name is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant_name is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Aeoniums, including Aeonium simsii, often grow in harsh, arid environments, symbolizing the ability to thrive despite challenging circumstances.
- Uniqueness: With their rosette pattern and unique appearance, Aeonium simsii can represent individuality and the beauty of being different.
- Adaptability: This plant's ability to adapt to varying light conditions is often seen as a symbol of flexibility and versatility.
- Renewal: Aeonium simsii, like many succulents, can regenerate and grow new plants from fallen leaves, symbolizing rebirth and new beginnings.
- Eternal Life: The evergreen nature of the Aeonium simsii, maintaining its leaves throughout the year, can be symbolic of everlasting life or immortality.
WaterThe Aeonium simsii, also known as "Houseleek Tree," prefers a watering routine that allows the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Generally, watering once a week during the active growth season in spring and summer is sufficient. Provide approximately 8-16 ounces of water to the plant's base, ensuring you wet the soil thoroughly without leaving the plant waterlogged. During the winter dormant period, reduce watering to once every other week or less, depending on the humidity and temperature of your home environment. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent moisture from accumulating in the rosettes, which can lead to rot.
LightHouseleek Tree thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate direct morning sun, but should be protected from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching of its leaves. A spot near a south-facing window with some light shade or a sheer curtain is ideal. If outdoors, provide dappled shade or a location with morning sunlight and afternoon protection to maintain the vibrant color and health of the Aeonium simsii.
TemperatureHouseleek Trees prefer temperature ranges between 40 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate minor frosts for short durations but should be protected from temperatures below 30 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for these succulents is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep them in an environment that avoids drastic temperature changes, as this can cause stress to the plant.
PruningPruning the Houseleek Tree is mainly done to remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain its appearance and health. Prune sparingly, usually once a year in early spring before new growth starts. This is also the time to shape the plant if necessary, by trimming back any overgrown branches. Using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, make your cuts at a slight angle to avoid damaging the healthy parts of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAeonium simsii, commonly known as Aeonium or Sempervivum, thrives in a well-draining soil mix with a pH around 6.0 to 7.0. A good recipe for Aeonium soil is a blend of 50% potting soil, 25% perlite, and 25% coarse sand. This will allow for proper drainage and aeration, preventing root rot and supporting healthy growth.
RepottingAeoniums, often referred to as Tree Houseleek, should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and allow room for growth. It's best to repot in the spring or early summer, which is the beginning of their active growth period.
Humidity & MistingTree Houseleek prefers moderate to low humidity levels, making it well-suited for the typical home environment. Strive to maintain humidity levels between 40% and 60% for optimal health and growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Tree Houseleek in bright, indirect light indoors; water sparingly.
Outdoor
Grow Tree Houseleek in full to partial sun; protect from extreme cold.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Aeonium simsii, commonly known as Simsii's Aeonium, starts its life cycle as a small seed that germinates in well-draining soil during the cooler, moist seasons, typically in spring or fall. After sprouting, it enters a juvenile phase where it develops a rosette of succulent leaves and begins to establish a shallow but extensive root system. As it matures, the Aeonium simsii enters a vegetative stage, characterized by the growth of more rosettes that may branch from the main stem, leading to a fuller plant with more leaves for photosynthesis. Once reaching maturity, it enters the reproductive stage, producing pyramidal inflorescences with yellow, star-shaped flowers, usually in late winter to spring. After pollination, these flowers will set seed and then the plant itself often dies, as Aeoniums are monocarpic, meaning they flower once and then perish. The seeds disperse to begin the next generation, continuing the life cycle of the Aeonium simsii.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating an Aeonium simsii, commonly known as Sims' aeonium or Aeonium 'Sunburst', is through stem cuttings. This is typically done during the plant's dormant period, which is usually in the summer for this succulent. To propagate, one would take a healthy stem cutting of about two to four inches (5-10 cm approximately) and allow the cut end to callous over for several days. Once the end has dried and formed a slight callus, the cutting can be planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept slightly moist but not wet, and the cutting should be placed in bright, indirect light until it begins to take root, which generally takes a few weeks. After rooting, the young plant can continue to grow in more direct sunlight and should be cared for like any mature Aeonium simsii.
