Tree of love Aichryson × aizoides var. domesticum 'Variegatum' (v)
ABOUT
The Aichryson × aizoides var. domesticum 'Variegatum', more commonly known as the variegated tree houseleek, exhibits a unique and visually striking appearance. This succulent plant boasts fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves with a soft and velvety texture. The variegated aspect of this variety is highlighted by patterns on the leaves, which display a blend of green tones interlaced with creamy white or yellowish variegation, creating a beautiful contrast against the solid colors. The leaves of the variegated tree houseleek are typically arranged in a rosette formation, radiating outwards from the center and providing a symmetrical, organized look to the foliage. As the rosettes grow, they can sometimes produce offsets that surround the mother plant, giving it a fuller and more clustered appearance. Small, star-shaped flowers may bloom from this succulent, usually presenting themselves in clusters on the ends of slender, vertical stems that rise above the rosettes of leaves. The color of the flowers can vary, but they typically exhibit a range of yellow hues, which complement the variegated leaves and add an extra layer of appeal. Overall, the variegated tree houseleek is an attractive and low-maintenance plant, its striking variegation making it a favorite among succulent enthusiasts for both indoor and outdoor gardening displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Crassulaceae
Synonyms
Tree Of Love, Love Plant, Maderia Aichryson
Common names
Aichryson domesticum 'Variegatum', Aeonium domesticum var. variegatum.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name of Aichryson × aizoides var. domesticum 'Variegatum' is not well-established, and given that the plant is a cultivar, its toxicity might not be well-documented either. However, Aichryson × aizoides, often referred to as the 'Tree of Love' or 'Love Plant', is generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. There are no widespread reports of this plant causing poisoning when touched or ingested. Nonetheless, it is always prudent to avoid ingesting plants that are not meant for consumption, as individual allergic reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort could occur.
To pets
The most common common name of Aichryson × aizoides var. domesticum 'Variegatum' is also not clearly established for this cultivar. Aichryson × aizoides, commonly known as 'Tree of Love' or 'Love Plant', is typically regarded as non-toxic to pets. There are no significant reports of toxicity or poisoning from pets ingesting this plant. However, as with any non-food plant, it is advisable to prevent pets from ingesting it to avoid any potential stomach upset or unforeseen allergic reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Canary Islands
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to Care For: The 'Tree of Love,' as Aichryson × aizoides var. domesticum 'Variegatum' is commonly known, is an undemanding plant that requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for novice gardeners.
- Drought Tolerant: This succulent is highly resilient to periods of drought due to its capacity to store water, thus requiring less frequent watering.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The 'Tree of Love' features attractive, variegated leaves that can provide a splash of color and visual interest to indoor spaces or gardens.
- Compact Growth: With its small size, this plant is suitable for growing in containers, making it perfect for those with limited space such as apartments or small patios.
- Growth Habits: The plant can produce small, star-shaped flowers that add an extra layer of beauty when in bloom.
- Propagation Ease: It is easily propagated from cuttings or leaves, allowing gardeners to share plants and expand their collection without additional cost.
- Positive Psychological Effects: Caring for plants like the 'Tree of Love' can offer a sense of accomplishment and improve overall wellbeing by nurturing a connection to nature.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aichryson laxum, commonly known as the "Tree of Love," has been used as a living ornament in wedding decorations, symbolizing enduring love and commitment between partners.
- This plant species can be utilized for educational purposes in botany or horticulture classes to illustrate succulent plant care and propagation techniques.
- The "Tree of Love" is sometimes used in miniature fairy gardens due to its small size and charming appearance, adding a touch of whimsy to these fantastical landscapes.
- Crafters sometimes incorporate dried Aichryson laxum into their work, such as in creating natural jewelry or as an inclusion in resin art pieces.
- It serves as a non-toxic chew toy for pet rodents or reptiles, giving them something to gnaw on without causing harm.
- Aichryson laxum can be used in stop-motion animation or model scenery, providing a realistic-looking, small-scale vegetation element.
- This plant has been grown as part of green roofs or living walls, particularly in mild climates, adding biodiversity and aesthetic appeal to urban architecture.
- In photography, Aichryson laxum provides an interesting and textured green subject for macro photography enthusiasts seeking to capture the beauty of plant life.
- During holidays like Christmas, small specimens of the "Tree of Love" can be used as natural ornaments, perhaps even decorated with tiny lights or baubles.
- These plants can act as living gifts that grow alongside friendships or relationships, often given with the intent of nurturing as the plant itself is nurtured.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Tree of Love is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Tree of Love is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Aichryson × aizoides var. domesticum 'Variegatum', commonly known as Variegated Tree of Love, often symbolizes resilience due to its ability to thrive in rocky, inhospitable environments, representing the idea of enduring love that can weather challenges.
- Growth and Renewal: Given that the Variegated Tree of Love can regenerate and grow quickly under the right conditions, it is frequently associated with the themes of growth and renewal, mirroring how love can be refreshed or begin anew.
- Healing: Plants are often associated with healing properties, and the Variegated Tree of Love, with its lush, life-affirming appearance, can symbolize emotional or spiritual healing, suggesting the comforting presence of love in the healing process.
- Luck: Sometimes, the Variegated Tree of Love is seen as a harbinger of good luck, particularly in the realm of relationships, indicating that love will flourish and good fortunes will come.
WaterThe Aichryson Laxum, commonly known as the Tree of Love, should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to become moderately dry between waterings. This plant prefers a consistent watering schedule, typically once a week, but you may need to adjust depending on the temperature and humidity in your home. When watering, use approximately 8-16 ounces of water for a small pot, ensuring the water drains freely out of the pot's bottom. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water as it can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency to prevent overwatering when the plant's growth slows down.
LightTree of Love thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, so it's best to place it near a window where it can receive good light but is shielded from the harsh midday sun. An east or west-facing window would be an ideal spot for this plant. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so be sure to provide a filter, such as a sheer curtain, if the plant is placed in a south-facing window.
TemperatureThe Tree of Love prefers a comfortable room temperature, ideally between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from drafts and sudden temperature drops. Extreme cold or heat can cause stress to the plant, potentially damaging its growth and overall health.
PruningPruning the Tree of Love helps maintain its shape and encourages bushier growth. Trim back leggy stems in the spring or early summer, which is the best time for pruning as the plant is entering a period of active growth. Prune sparingly, as excessive cutting can stress the plant. It's not necessary to prune often; once a year or as needed to remove dead or yellowing leaves is sufficient.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Tree of Love (Aichryson × aizoides 'Variegatum') thrives in a soil mix that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. A blend of potting soil, perlite, and sand in equal parts is ideal to ensure adequate drainage. The optimal soil pH for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from pH 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingThe Tree of Love should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to ensure continued growth and to refresh the soil with nutrients. When repotting, choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow for growth.
Humidity & MistingThe Tree of Love prefers moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% and 60%. This plant does not thrive in very low humidity environments, so it is important to maintain consistent humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water when soil is dry.
Outdoor
Grow in partial shade with shelter from harsh sun.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Aichryson × aizoides var. domesticum 'Variegatum', also known as Tree of Love, begins with the germination of its small, dust-like seeds, which require warm temperatures and consistent moisture to sprout. The seedlings soon develop into rosettes of variegated fleshy leaves, with the variegation becoming more pronounced as the plant matures. As a perennial succulent, it enters a phase of vegetative growth where it can produce offsets or branch out to form a clump. In its flowering stage, typically during spring or early summer, the Tree of Love produces clusters of small, star-shaped yellow flowers at the ends of its stems. After pollination, the plant sets seeds that are dispersed by wind or fall close to the parent plant, ready to start a new cycle. Eventually, after flowering, some specimens may enter a period of dormancy or decline, but others can persist and grow for several years with appropriate care.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The Aichryson × aizoides var. domesticum 'Variegatum', more commonly known as 'Variegated Heartleaf', is often propagated through leaf cuttings. The best time for this is during the spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate, a healthy leaf is gently twisted off the stem, ensuring a small part of the stem comes with it. This is beneficial because it typically includes a part of the meristem, which is where new growth will develop from. The leaf, along with its small attached stem piece, is then allowed to callous over for a day or two to prevent rotting when planted. After the callous formation, the leaf is placed on top of a well-draining potting mix and lightly watered. Roots will soon begin to develop at the base of the leaf, and eventually, a new rosette will form, creating a new plant, ready to be gradually introduced to the same conditions as the mature plants.
