Tree Aeonium

aeonium castello-paivae

Also known as: ["Tree Aeonium","Aeonium arboreum var. castello-paivae"]

Family: Crassulaceae Genus: Aeonium Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A striking succulent with rosettes of fleshy, green leaves arranged on branching stems, forming a tree-like structure. 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 castello-paivae

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor garden in a sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Collectors & Enthusiasts Indoor Plant Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Pet Owners (non Toxic Plants Only)
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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: 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 some direct sun in cooler months but prefers shade in intense summer heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to direct sun to avoid scorching; provide shade during peak summer hours; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.

Warning Signs: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, or root rot indicate poor drainage or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter

Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply to encourage deep roots; adjust frequency based on season and conditions.

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 fresh mix annually.

Temperature

Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); prefers cooler temperatures in winter (down to 50°F/10°C) to encourage dormancy.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during active growth (spring and summer)

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 be used but are less reliable.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Let it callus for a few days.
  3. Plant in moist medium.
  4. 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 in the medium.

Medium

Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.

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 any damaged or diseased parts.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; prune after flowering to rejuvenate the plant.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged parts; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the main growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Gently remove the plant; 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 the plant becomes root-bound; provides fresh soil and room for growth.

Checklist

Check root health; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage.

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 even moisture distribution; avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the root zone without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase slightly in hot, dry periods.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility if needed.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration in extreme heat; stunted growth or blackened leaves in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to tissue death.

Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting; may lead to sunburn or leaf drop.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; 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/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Aeonium castello-paivae may indicate overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Aeonium castello-paivae can result from underwatering, root rot, or excessive heat, causing the plant to lose turgor pressure and potentially leading to cell damage.

Leaf spots on Aeonium castello-paivae may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and aesthetic damage to the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Aeonium castello-paivae is often caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest Aeonium castello-paivae. The sap can also cause mild skin irritation upon contact.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from cats. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Aeonium castello-paivae can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The sap may cause mild skin irritation if contact occurs.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of pets. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Aeonium castello-paivae contains mild irritants that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort upon ingestion. The plant's sap may also cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and direct contact with sap. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I water Aeonium castello-paivae?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Q: Does this plant require full sun?

A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Avoid intense afternoon sun, which may scorch the leaves.

Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?

A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and adjust watering habits.

Quick Reference
Family: Crassulaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days in summer, e
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","collectors/enthusiasts","indoor plant lovers","outdoor landscapers","pet owners (non-toxic plants only)"]
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