Dwarf Tree Anemone
aeonium sedifolium
Also known as: ["Dwarf Tree Anemone","Little Tree Aeonium"]
Overview
A small, compact succulent with rosettes of fleshy, green leaves and yellow star-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Aeonium |
| Botanical Name: | Aeonium sedifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead stems or control size
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or overgrown stems unless significant reshaping is required
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 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 a spot with filtered light during peak summer hours; indoors, place near an east or south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during hottest part of day; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust frequency with seasons.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with fresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate brief dips to 40°F (4°C) but thrives in warmth; avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil; stop feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep lightly moist until roots develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70°F (21°C)
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio)
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks
Tools Needed
Clean scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humidifier or plastic bag to maintain humidity; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; avoid cutting into old wood unless necessary
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems; best done in spring before active growth begins.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead or damaged stems; shape as desired
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 5-inch pot)
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for refreshing soil and providing space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water sparingly after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without wetting leaves. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 3–4 weeks; increase slightly in summer to every 1–2 weeks, depending on heat and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to standard potting soil to enhance drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or blackened leaf tips from cold; wilting, sunburned patches, or shriveled leaves from excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration; prolonged cold may lead to fungal infections or rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting; may lead to premature dormancy or reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but ensure proper drainage; move to a cooler spot if possible.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during spring and summer; avoid feeding in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAeonium sedifolium is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAeonium sedifolium is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAeonium sedifolium is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion, though it is not typically consumed as a food source.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Aeonium sedifolium?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Aeonium sedifolium need full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun.
Q: Is Aeonium sedifolium toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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