Wavy aeonium
aeonium undulatum
Also known as: ["Wavy aeonium"]
Overview
A succulent plant with rosettes of wavy-edged leaves and a tree-like growth habit, native to the Canary Islands.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Aeonium |
| Botanical Name: | Aeonium undulatum |
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 waterlogging.
- 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 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, use a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply to encourage deep roots; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate mild frost but thrives in moderate temperatures; reduce watering in cooler months.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also work but are slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
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; 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 yellow or dead leaves.
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 or diseased parts; shape as desired.
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 roots if necessary; 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 roots if needed; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; 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; avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is 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 mix; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) due to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Stagnant growth, leaf discoloration, and potential root rot due to cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; provide insulation if outdoors in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration due to excessive heat and sun exposure.
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 winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Aeonium undulatum may experience mild gastrointestinal upset. The sap can also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Aeonium undulatum by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The sap may also cause skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAeonium undulatum 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 undulatum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during winter dormancy.
Q: Does Aeonium undulatum require full sun?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade; direct sun may scorch the leaves.
Q: Is Aeonium undulatum 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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