Balsam Aeonium
aeonium balsamiferum
Also known as: ["Balsam Aeonium","Scented Aeonium"]
Overview
A succulent plant native to the Canary Islands, known for its fragrant leaves and rosette-forming growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Aeonium |
| Botanical Name: | Aeonium balsamiferum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright 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
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or pumice
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape
- 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 some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light during peak summer hours; move indoors if outdoor temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; provide shade during hottest part of day.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
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; let soil dry between waterings
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate brief dips to 40°F (4°C) but thrives in moderate warmth. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature changes.
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 fertilizing in winter.
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 humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light
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
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, propagation medium
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; use sterile tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; remove any yellowing or damaged leaves
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems. Focus on removing older, less vigorous growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape evenly
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season begins
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Aeoniums prefer slightly crowded roots but benefit from fresh soil.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully; avoid overwatering after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even saturation of the root zone. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply 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, pumice, or coarse sand to improve 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.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration. Prolonged cold may lead to death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold conditions; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration, especially if combined with intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure good drainage; use a fan for air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they ingest Aeonium balsamiferum. The sap can also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Aeonium balsamiferum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the plant's irritant properties. The sap may also cause mild skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAeonium balsamiferum contains irritant compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aeonium balsamiferum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Aeonium balsamiferum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Aeonium balsamiferum require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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