Aeonium gomerense is a visually appealing succulent, valued for its distinctive rosettes and striking form. Its architectural presence and straightforward care requirements make it a desirable choice for plant enthusiasts.
Understanding Aeonium gomerense
Aeonium gomerense is a loosely branched succulent shrub, forming flat rosettes of green leaves that often display reddish margins. These rosettes can reach up to 11.2 inches in diameter, while the entire plant may grow to an impressive height of 6.6 feet. Its smooth branches can grow up to 0.6 inches in diameter, supporting obovate to oblanceolate leaves. This plant is native to the Canary Islands, specifically La Gomera, where it thrives at elevations between 1,640 and 3,610 feet. Its natural growth habit allows it to develop into miniature, tree-like specimens.
Caring for Aeonium gomerense
Light Requirements
Aeonium gomerense thrives in full sun to partial shade outdoors. For indoor cultivation, bright, indirect light supports healthy growth. Insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch and become leggy. Adequate sunlight can also encourage the green leaves to develop an attractive reddish hue along their margins.
Watering Practices
Aeonium gomerense requires more moisture than some other succulents but is prone to root rot if overwatered. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until drainage occurs, then allow the soil to dry completely before the next watering. During active growth in spring and fall, more frequent watering is necessary. Reduce watering in winter. The plant typically goes dormant in summer and requires minimal to no watering during this period, unless conditions are extremely arid.
Soil Preferences
A well-draining soil mix is essential for Aeonium gomerense to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A sandy loam or regular potting mix can be used, provided it is amended with materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve drainage. Incorporating 50% to 70% mineral grit into the soil mix is beneficial. Avoid heavy, moisture-retentive soils.
Temperature and Humidity
Aeonium gomerense prefers temperatures between 65 and 75 °F (18 and 24 °C) for optimal growth. It can withstand temperatures as low as 30 °F (-1.1 °C) but is sensitive to hard frost, requiring indoor relocation if freezing temperatures are anticipated. This succulent may enter a dormant phase during hot, dry summer conditions. An ideal humidity range is between 40% and 60%.
Fertilization
During its active growing season in spring and fall, Aeonium gomerense benefits from monthly feeding with a half-strength balanced fertilizer. While not strictly necessary, fertilization can encourage more vigorous growth. Do not fertilize the plant during its summer dormancy, as this can lead to issues such as root burn. Over-fertilizing can also manifest as yellowing leaves or stunted development.
Propagating Aeonium gomerense
Aeonium gomerense is readily propagated through stem cuttings. Spring is the best time to take these cuttings. Select a healthy stem of about 4 to 6 inches in length that has not yet flowered. After making the cut, allow the severed end to dry and form a protective callus for three to seven days to prevent rot before planting. Once callused, insert the cutting into a well-draining soil mix, burying approximately half of the stem. Propagation can also be achieved using offsets.
Common Problems and Solutions
Leggy growth indicates insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter location. Yellowing or dropping leaves can signal either overwatering, often with mushy stems, or underwatering, which may result in wrinkled leaves. Root rot is a frequent problem caused by excessive watering or inadequate drainage; ensure the soil dries completely between waterings and use pots with drainage holes.
Aeonium gomerense can also be susceptible to common succulent pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Aphids often cause distorted new growth and a sticky residue. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses. These infestations can be managed by physical removal or by applying insecticidal soap.