The Aeonium Kiwi, known scientifically as Aeonium decorum ‘Kiwi’, is a visually striking succulent. Its distinctive rosette form and bright, multi-hued foliage add vibrant color to any collection, making it a popular choice for many growers.
Unique Features of Aeonium Kiwi
The Aeonium Kiwi distinguishes itself with rosettes displaying three distinct colors. Each rosette features bright green centers, transitioning to yellow or orange mid-sections, and culminating in striking pink or red edges. The intensity of these colors correlates directly with sun exposure.
This succulent exhibits a branching growth habit, forming dense clusters of rosettes over time. Individual rosettes are monocarpic, meaning each will flower once and then naturally decline. Despite this, the plant as a whole continues to thrive by producing new offsets and branches.
Caring for Your Aeonium Kiwi
Light Needs
Adequate light is important for the Aeonium Kiwi to maintain its vibrant coloration and compact growth. The plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight throughout the day. Insufficient light can lead to etiolation, where stems stretch and leaves become less colorful, while prolonged exposure to harsh, direct afternoon sun can scorch the leaves.
Watering
Watering practices for the Aeonium Kiwi should follow the “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. During its active growing season in cooler months, water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom. Watering frequency decreases significantly during its summer dormancy period to prevent root rot.
Overwatering is a common issue for succulents. Aeonium Kiwi is susceptible to root decay if its roots remain in consistently wet soil. Adjusting your watering schedule based on environmental conditions and the plant’s seasonal needs is important.
Soil Requirements
The right soil mix is important for an Aeonium Kiwi, as it requires excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging. A gritty succulent or cactus mix is suitable, often composed of perlite, pumice, or coarse sand blended with potting soil. This type of substrate allows water to pass through quickly, preventing moisture from accumulating around the roots.
Temperature and Humidity
Aeonium Kiwi prefers moderate temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C) during its active growth. While it tolerates warmer conditions, protection from freezing temperatures is important, as it is sensitive to frost. Succulents generally prefer low to moderate humidity levels, making typical household humidity suitable for this plant.
Propagating Aeonium Kiwi
Propagating Aeonium Kiwi is straightforward, with stem cuttings being the most common method. Begin by cutting a healthy rosette with a short section of stem attached, ensuring the cut is clean. Allow the severed end to dry and form a callus over several days.
Once the cut surface has calloused, plant the cutting into well-draining succulent soil. Avoid watering immediately; instead, wait a few days to a week before the first light watering. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks. Leaf propagation is generally not successful for Aeoniums, making stem cuttings the preferred approach.
Common Problems and Pests
Aeonium Kiwi can encounter issues such as mushy leaves or root rot, which are often signs of overwatering. Conversely, shriveled or crispy leaves may indicate insufficient watering. Adjusting your watering routine based on these visual cues is important for plant health.
Pests like mealybugs and aphids can sometimes affect Aeonium Kiwi. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses on stems and leaf axils, while aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects often found on new growth. Addressing infestations promptly with appropriate treatments, such as insecticidal soap or rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab, helps protect the plant.
Understanding Aeonium Kiwi Dormancy
A notable characteristic of Aeonium Kiwi is its summer dormancy period. During warmer months, typically from late spring through summer, the plant’s growth slows significantly. Rosettes may close up tightly, and the overall appearance can become less vibrant, signaling this resting phase.
Adjusting care during dormancy is important for the plant’s long-term health. Watering should be reduced or temporarily halted, and the plant should be protected from intense heat and direct, scorching sun. Aeonium Kiwi actively grows during the cooler months of fall, winter, and early spring, when temperatures are more favorable.