The Aeonium ‘Kiwi’ (Aeonium percarneum ‘Kiwi’) is a favored succulent known for its unique and vibrant appearance. This striking plant adds color to any collection, making it a popular choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Understanding the Kiwi Aeonium
The Kiwi Aeonium displays rosette-shaped leaves that form a compact, shrub-like growth. Each spoon-shaped leaf shows a color gradient, from a pale yellow or creamy center to green edges. With sufficient sunlight, leaf margins develop a vibrant hot pink or reddish hue, earning it names like “Tricolor” or “Dream Color.” This plant grows up to 2-3 feet tall and wide, forming branching stems.
It is believed to be a hybrid, possibly involving Aeonium haworthii. Individual rosettes are monocarpic, flowering once and then dying; however, the plant produces numerous offsets, ensuring its continued presence.
Essential Care for Your Kiwi Aeonium
Light
The Kiwi Aeonium needs bright, indirect sunlight to display its vibrant coloration. It thrives in these conditions, which enhance its distinctive hues. While it tolerates a few hours of direct morning sun, intense afternoon sun can cause sunburn. Indoors, a south or east-facing window with filtered light is suitable. Insufficient light causes stems to stretch (etiolation) and colors to appear less vivid.
Watering
Watering is important for the Kiwi Aeonium, which has shallow roots. Use the “soak and dry” method: thoroughly water, then allow the soil to dry completely before the next session. During its active growing season (winter and spring), it requires more frequent watering, perhaps weekly. The plant goes dormant in summer, needing less water or none. Overwatering causes mushy, discolored leaves and root rot.
Soil
A well-draining soil mix prevents waterlogging and root issues for the Kiwi Aeonium. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix works well. You can also create a blend by mixing regular potting soil with perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
The Kiwi Aeonium prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (18-24°C). It is not tolerant of frost; protect or bring it indoors if temperatures drop below 25-32°F (-4 to 0°C). Good air circulation is beneficial. Avoiding overly moist environments helps prevent fungal diseases and pest infestations.
Fertilizing
Kiwi Aeoniums do not require heavy fertilization, as they are adapted to nutrient-poor environments. Apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer sparingly, about once a month during its active growing season (winter and spring). Avoid fertilizing during summer dormancy, as the plant cannot absorb excess nutrients, which can harm its growth. Under-fertilizing is preferable to over-fertilizing for succulents.
Repotting
Repot the Kiwi Aeonium every two to three years or when it becomes root-bound to promote health and growth. The best times for repotting are spring or winter, during its active growth phases. Select a container 1-2 inches wider than the previous one to provide adequate space. Use fresh, well-draining succulent soil mix.
Propagating Kiwi Aeonium
Propagating the Kiwi Aeonium is primarily achieved through stem cuttings. This method allows you to multiply your plant, especially since individual rosettes are monocarpic. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem and use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut a few inches below the rosette. Allow the severed end to dry and form a callus for several days to a week before planting to prevent rot.
Once calloused, plant it upright in a pot with well-draining succulent or cactus soil. Water sparingly until roots form, keeping the plant in bright, indirect light. Spring and winter are optimal seasons for propagation. The Kiwi Aeonium also produces offsets, or “pups,” around the base, which can be separated and rooted similarly.
Troubleshooting Common Kiwi Aeonium Issues
Common issues with the Kiwi Aeonium are often related to environmental conditions. Stretched stems (etiolation) indicate insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter location for more compact growth. Yellowing or mushy leaves signal overwatering or root rot. To address root rot, remove the plant, inspect roots, and trim any brown, soft sections with sterilized shears. Repot in fresh, dry, well-draining soil, then adjust watering to allow soil to dry completely between sessions.
Pests like mealybugs and aphids can infest the plant. Manage them by wiping with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or treating with insecticidal soap or neem oil.