Flat Aeonium, Table Aeonium
aeonium tabuliforme
Also known as: ["Flat Rose","Table Rose"]
Overview
A striking succulent forming a flat, disc-like rosette of fleshy leaves, native to the Canary Islands.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Aeonium |
| Botanical Name: | Aeonium tabuliforme |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot near bright window or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or pumice for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, removing only dead or overgrown parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but requires shade from intense afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in east-facing windows indoors; provide dappled shade outdoors during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate temperatures, with cooler winters promoting dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings, though stem cuttings are more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut a healthy stem.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep lightly moist until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), humid, and bright indirect light with protection from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain consistent humidity; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; avoid cutting into the main rosette.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to maintain compact shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for preventing root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without wetting the leaves. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing to every 3–4 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or blackened stems in cold; yellowing or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure well-draining soil; protect from frost with a cover or indoor placement.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, dehydration, and may trigger premature dormancy if not provided with adequate shade and water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in growing season only; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Aeonium tabuliforme. The sap can also cause mild skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Aeonium tabuliforme can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of irritants. The sap may also cause mild skin irritation if contacted.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAeonium tabuliforme contains mild irritants that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested. The plant's sap may also cause mild skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Aeonium tabuliforme?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during winter dormancy.
Q: Does Aeonium tabuliforme need full sun?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade; direct sun may scorch the leaves.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Aeonium tabuliforme turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage; ensure the plant is not sitting in water.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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