Golden Aeonium
aeonium aureum
Also known as: ["Golden Star Aeonium","Sunburst Aeonium"]
Overview
A succulent plant with rosettes of bright yellow-green leaves, native to the Canary Islands.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Aeonium |
| Botanical Name: | Aeonium aureum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor garden in mild climates
- 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 to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct sun in cooler months but prefers filtered light in summer to avoid scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; move indoors or provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near hot windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply to encourage deep roots; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate temperatures with cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in warm conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Stem cuttings are more reliable for Aeonium aureum.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep lightly moist until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bottom heat to speed up rooting; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; remove spent flower stalks at the base.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; 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. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim old roots; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) indicate stress from extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration if below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; water sparingly until temperatures rise.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or stunted growth, especially with poor water access.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAeonium aureum is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAeonium aureum is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAeonium aureum is not considered toxic to humans. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much sunlight does Aeonium aureum need?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Aeonium aureum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Aeonium aureum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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