Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’ is a distinctive succulent that adds unique beauty to any plant collection. Its striking appearance, often likened to miniature water lilies, makes it a popular choice. With its characteristic rosette shape and vibrant green foliage, this plant stands out.
Understanding Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’
Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’ is a succulent shrublet known for its flat, open rosettes of thick, bright green leaves. These rosettes can reach about 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter and grow at the end of stems, giving the plant an upright growth habit. The plant can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall.
It belongs to the Crassulaceae family and is believed to be a hybrid, possibly from a cross between Aichryson tortuosum var. bethencourtianum and Aeonium lindleyi. While some sources indicate its origin in the Canary Islands, it’s primarily a cultivated hybrid. The leaves can develop shades of orange and yellow when exposed to full sun.
Caring for Your Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’
Caring for Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’ requires understanding its specific needs and unique growth cycle. Providing the right environment ensures the plant thrives.
Light Requirements
Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’ thrives in bright, indirect, or scattered light. While it tolerates partial shade, ample light encourages vibrant growth. Full sun exposure is tolerated during cooler seasons, but intense, hot sun may cause scorching or yellowing. Indoors, a sunny windowsill or grow light is suitable. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth.
Watering Practices
Like most succulents, Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’ requires minimal water. Use the “soak and dry” method: thoroughly water the soil, then allow it to dry completely before the next watering. Overwatering is a common issue leading to root rot. During its summer dormant period, reduce watering or withhold it in very dry conditions. Apply water to the soil, not directly into the rosettes, to prevent rotting.
Soil Preferences
Well-draining soil is essential for Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’. A succulent or cactus mix is suitable, often benefiting from added perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to enhance drainage. The soil should be loose and well-ventilated.
Temperature and Dormancy
Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’ exhibits summer dormancy, where growth slows or stops in hot, dry weather, requiring less water. Ideal temperatures for active growth (fall to spring) range from 60°F to 75°F (15.6°C to 23.9°C). It tolerates cold down to 20°F (-6.7°C) and heat up to 109°F (43°C), but protection is needed in extreme conditions. Bringing the plant indoors during winter prevents frost damage.
Propagating Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’
Propagating Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’ is achieved through stem cuttings or offsets. The best time for propagation is during the plant’s active growing season, typically spring or autumn.
Stem Cuttings
To propagate using stem cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut it cleanly at its base. Allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for a few days to prevent rot. Once callused, insert the cutting about 1-2 inches deep into well-draining succulent or cactus soil. Water sparingly until roots establish, which usually takes two to three weeks.
Offsets
Offsets, small rosettes growing from the base or along the stem, can also be used for propagation. Gently remove the offset, allowing it to callus for a few days before planting it in its own pot with well-draining soil. This method is useful as mature rosettes may flower once and then die back.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Growers of Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’ may encounter common issues. Recognizing signs of distress helps maintain a healthy plant.
Leggy growth
Leggy growth, characterized by stretched-out stems and widely spaced leaves, indicates insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with more scattered light. Pruning leggy stems encourages bushier growth.
Mushy leaves or rot
Mushy leaves or rot are signs of overwatering and poor drainage. Ensure the plant is in a pot with drainage holes and well-draining soil. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent moisture accumulation. If root rot is extensive, propagating a healthy part of the plant may be the only solution.
Pest issues
Pest issues, such as mealybugs and aphids, can affect Aeonium ‘Lily Pad’. Manage these by wiping leaves with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol or applying a neem oil solution. Regular inspection helps in early detection and treatment.
Leaf dropping or wrinkling
Leaf dropping or wrinkling can indicate underwatering or normal dormancy. During summer dormancy, some leaf drop is natural as the plant conserves energy. If the plant is actively growing and leaves are wrinkling, it may need water. Ensure the soil is completely dry before watering again.