Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’ is a distinctive succulent known for its striking appearance and relatively low maintenance. This plant adds unique visual interest to gardens and containers with its vibrant, glossy rosettes. Its drought tolerance makes it a popular choice for various climates, particularly those mimicking its native semi-arid conditions.
Identifying Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’
Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’ forms attractive low clumps of colorful rosettes at the end of short branches. These rosettes are typically 6 to 8 inches wide and feature fleshy, glossy leaves.
The leaves exhibit a beautiful bicolored pattern, being green towards the center and transitioning to a brilliant burgundy-red at the tips. This red coloration intensifies after new growth hardens off in late spring.
The plant can grow up to 18 inches tall and spread to 24 inches wide, eventually forming a lovely mound or ground-hugging drifts. It develops a tree-like stem as it matures, with rosettes branching off. Developed by horticulturist Jack Catlin, this hybrid is known for its vigorous growth and unique coloration.
Caring for Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’
Light Requirements
Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’ thrives in bright light, preferring full sun to partial shade. Adequate sunlight is important for developing the rich, reddish color in its leaves.
Insufficient light can lead to spindly growth and faded color. Strong summer sunlight can scorch its leaves and stems, so some protection during the hottest parts of the day may be beneficial, particularly in extreme heat.
Watering Needs
This succulent prefers dry conditions and is highly drought tolerant. The “soak and dry” method is ideal: water thoroughly until it drains from the pot, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again.
Overwatering is a common issue, leading to root rot, so avoid letting the plant sit in wet soil. During its summer dormancy, watering should be significantly reduced or stopped, only providing water in excessively dry conditions. During its active growing season in cooler months, water moderately every two to three weeks.
Soil and Potting
Well-draining, gritty soil is essential for Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’ to prevent root rot. A common recommendation is a mix of horticultural grit and general peat-free compost, often in a 50/50 ratio.
Pots must have drainage holes to ensure excess water can escape, preventing waterlogging. Repotting every two to three years helps refresh the soil and provides necessary nutrients.
Temperature and Dormancy
Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’ is a cool-weather grower, with its active growth season occurring from winter to spring when temperatures are typically between 65 to 75°F (18 to 24°C). Unlike many other succulents, aeoniums enter a period of summer dormancy.
During this time, which coincides with hot, dry weather, the plant conserves moisture by curling its leaves and may drop basal leaves. Protect the plant from extreme heat during dormancy, perhaps by providing shade. It tolerates temperatures down to about 25°F (-3.9°C) for short durations but needs protection from prolonged frost or should be moved indoors in colder climates.
Fertilization
Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’ generally does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of slow-release fertilizer can be given in early summer, or a balanced liquid feed at half-strength every two to three weeks during its active growing season. Do not fertilize during the plant’s dormancy, as excess nutrients can harm its growth when it is not actively absorbing them.
Propagating Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’
Propagating Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’ is most effectively done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy, non-flowering branch from the parent plant.
Using clean, sharp shears, make a cut and then allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for several days, typically one to two weeks, before planting. This callusing process helps prevent rot once the cutting is placed in soil.
Once the cutting has callused, plant it in a well-draining succulent soil mix. Avoid watering immediately after planting; instead, keep the soil barely moist until roots begin to form, which can take several weeks.
Placing the pot in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight, promotes rooting. Once roots are established, the new plant can be cared for as a mature specimen, gradually introducing it to more light.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
One common issue with Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’ is etiolation, where the plant stretches and becomes leggy due to insufficient light. This results in weaker, pale growth, and the plant’s vibrant color may fade. To prevent this, ensure the plant receives ample bright, indirect sunlight or move it to a sunnier location, gradually acclimating it to prevent sunburn.
Overwatering is a frequent cause of problems, primarily leading to root rot, which can be fatal. Symptoms include mushy stems or leaves. Conversely, prolonged underwatering can lead to leaf drop or shriveling, particularly during dormancy if conditions are excessively dry.
Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’ can occasionally encounter pests like mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, or scale insects. Regularly inspecting the plant helps in early detection. If pests are found, manage them by gently wiping them away with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by using an insecticidal soap. Environmental stress, such as extreme heat or cold, can also cause issues like leaf scorch or softening, requiring protection or temporary relocation.