Lion's Tooth
aeonium canariense
Also known as: ["Canary Island Aeonium","Fat Aeonium"]
Overview
A succulent with large, fleshy, rosette-forming leaves that are velvety and pale green, native to the Canary Islands.
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 canariense |
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 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: high
- 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 4–6 hours daily. Can tolerate full sun but may need acclimation to prevent scorching. Adjust exposure seasonally.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sun to avoid leaf burn; provide shade during intense midday sun; indoors, place near a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains in summer; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
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 gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm, dry conditions. Avoid temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method. Leaf cuttings are less successful.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch stem cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist 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 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 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, remove dead or leggy stems, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; cut just above a node; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 inches wider in diameter).
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. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without saturating the rosette. 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 thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7–10 days in summer, reducing frequency to every 3–4 weeks in winter. 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
Leaf drop, wilting, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) indicate stress from cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop if prolonged below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold periods; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or stunted growth, especially with poor water access.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in growing season; avoid winter feeding; 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 that ingest Aeonium canariense may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The sap can cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Aeonium canariense by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The sap can also cause skin irritation if contact occurs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAeonium canariense contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Aeonium canariense?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Aeonium canariense require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade; avoid intense, direct sunlight.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Aeonium canariense turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage; ensure the plant is not sitting in water.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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