Aeonium tabuliforme, often recognized as the “Pancake Plant” or “Dinner Plate Aeonium,” is a captivating succulent with a flat, rosette-like appearance, its leaves symmetrically overlapping like a dinner plate. Native to the Canary Islands, this low-growing plant adds an intriguing element to any succulent collection with its vibrant green foliage.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Light
Aeonium tabuliforme thrives in bright, indirect light, though it can tolerate full sun in milder climates. Indoors, a south-facing window is ideal, providing sufficient light without intense direct sun. In hotter regions, particularly during summer, partial afternoon shade prevents leaf scorching.
Watering
This succulent requires a “soak and dry” watering approach, meaning the soil should be thoroughly watered and then allowed to dry completely before the next watering. During its active growing season, typically winter to spring, it needs more consistent watering, perhaps once a week. Conversely, during its summer dormancy, watering should be significantly reduced or even withheld, as excessive moisture can quickly lead to root rot.
Soil
Well-draining soil is essential for Aeonium tabuliforme to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus mix is suitable, or you can create your own by amending regular potting soil with materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to enhance drainage. Pots with drainage holes are also essential to support healthy root development.
Temperature and Humidity
Aeonium tabuliforme prefers mild temperatures, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C). It is sensitive to frost and cannot tolerate prolonged exposure to temperatures below 40°F (4-5°C). If grown outdoors in colder climates, cultivate it in containers that can be moved indoors during winter. While it can tolerate some humidity, it generally prefers drier conditions, with an ideal humidity range around 30-40%. High humidity can contribute to fungal issues.
Maintenance and Lifecycle
Fertilization
Aeonium tabuliforme requires minimal fertilization. During its active growing season (fall and winter), apply a diluted, balanced liquid succulent fertilizer (such as a 2-4-4 or 10-10-10 ratio) every month or two. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so dilute the fertilizer to half or quarter strength. Avoid fertilizing during its summer dormancy.
Repotting
Repotting is typically needed every two to three years or when the plant has visibly outgrown its container. Signs that repotting may be necessary include roots protruding from drainage holes or the plant becoming top-heavy. When repotting, use fresh, well-draining succulent soil and select a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one, ensuring it has adequate drainage holes. Handle the plant carefully during this process due to its relatively shallow root system.
Dormancy and Monocarpic Nature
Aeonium tabuliforme enters a natural dormancy period during the hot summer months, characterized by slower growth or even some leaf drop. During this time, the rosette may close up to conserve moisture. A unique aspect of this plant is its monocarpic nature, meaning the individual rosette will flower once, typically after several years of growth, and then the rosette will die. Before or during flowering, the plant often produces offsets or “pups” around its base, ensuring the continuation of the plant’s life cycle.
Propagation Techniques
Aeonium tabuliforme is most commonly propagated from offsets that form around the base of the main rosette. To propagate, carefully detach offsets once large enough to handle. Allow the detached offset to dry and form a callus on its cut end for a few days to a week before planting it in well-draining succulent soil. This callusing process helps prevent rot once planted.
Propagation can also be achieved through stem cuttings if the plant has developed a short stem. Take a cutting from a healthy stem, ensuring it has a few leaves, and allow the cut end to callus over for several days. Once callused, plant the cutting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots begin to form. While some sources mention leaf propagation, it is generally not considered a successful or reliable method for this species.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Overwatering is a frequent issue for Aeonium tabuliforme, leading to symptoms like mushy leaves, stem rot, and yellowing foliage. If these signs appear, reduce watering immediately and ensure the soil dries completely between waterings. Conversely, underwatering can manifest as shriveled or wrinkled leaves, indicating the plant needs more moisture.
Common pests include mealybugs (white, cottony masses), aphids (small insects clustering on new growth, causing leaves to curl), and spider mites (fine webbing, leaf speckling). Treat these with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or by physically removing them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Environmental stressors like intense direct sun can cause leaf discoloration or scorching (brown patches). Prevent this by moving the plant to partial shade during the hottest parts of the day. Fungal issues, like leaf spot, can arise from excessive humidity or poor air circulation, so maintaining good airflow and appropriate humidity levels is important.