Aeonium ‘Tip Top’ is a visually striking succulent, popular for its distinctive rosette form and vibrant coloration. This guide covers its cultivation and maintenance.
Discovering Aeonium ‘Tip Top’
Aeonium ‘Tip Top’, a compact dwarf form of Aeonium arborescens, forms dense rosettes on branching stems. It typically reaches 12 inches tall and spreads 1 to 2 feet wide. Its spoon-shaped leaves are lime-green at the center, transitioning to burgundy-black or deep maroon at the edges as they mature. This two-toned effect provides strong visual contrast.
Essential Care for Aeonium ‘Tip Top’
Light Requirements
Aeonium ‘Tip Top’ thrives in bright light, essential for vibrant coloration, preferring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Outdoors, full sun suits coastal areas, but inland regions with intense heat may need partial shade during hot afternoons to prevent leaf scorch. Indoors, place the plant 12-18 inches from a south or west-facing window for sufficient bright, indirect light.
Watering Practices
Water Aeonium ‘Tip Top’ using a “soak and dry” method to prevent root rot. Water thoroughly until drainage occurs, then allow soil to dry completely. During active growth (fall through spring), water every 10-14 days. During summer dormancy, reduce watering to every three to four weeks or less, as the plant conserves moisture.
Soil and Drainage
Provide well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A gritty succulent or cactus mix is recommended, such as 50 percent cactus soil with 50 percent pumice or perlite, or a blend of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite. Use pots with multiple drainage holes.
Temperature and Dormancy
Aeonium ‘Tip Top’ enters dormancy in hot summer months, slowing growth to conserve energy and water. Active growth occurs during cooler months (fall through spring). It prefers daytime temperatures of 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) and tolerates nighttime drops to 50°F (10°C). Not frost-hardy, protect plants or move them indoors below 30°F (-1°C).
Fertilization
Fertilize Aeonium ‘Tip Top’ sparingly during active growth (mid-spring and early autumn). Apply a half-strength, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer monthly, replacing a watering session. Avoid fertilizing during summer heat and winter rest; the plant’s metabolism slows, and excess nutrients can harm roots. Over-fertilization may cause yellowing leaves or stunted growth.
Propagating Your Aeonium ‘Tip Top’
Propagate Aeonium ‘Tip Top’ using stem cuttings during active growth (spring or autumn). Cut a healthy stem section with at least one rosette. Allow the cut end to dry and callus for a few days to a week; this prevents rot.
Once calloused, insert the cutting into a well-draining succulent or gritty compost mix, burying it deep enough to stand upright. Lightly water and place in bright, indirect sunlight, keeping soil barely moist until roots develop (typically within weeks).
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Leggy growth indicates insufficient light, causing stems to stretch. Move the plant to a brighter location or provide more direct light to compact its form. Prune stretched stems to encourage bushier growth.
Overwatering commonly causes rotting, leading to mushy bases or stems. Reduce watering frequency and ensure well-draining soil and adequate drainage holes. If rot is severe, remove affected parts and repot into fresh, dry soil.
Common pests like mealybugs and aphids can affect Aeonium ‘Tip Top’. For minor infestations, remove pests by hand or with rubbing alcohol. For widespread issues, an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution is effective; apply thoroughly to all affected areas, including leaf undersides.
Faded coloration signals inadequate light. Increase light exposure to restore burgundy and green hues. Reducing watering can also enhance leaf coloration by replicating its natural drier habitat.