Overview
Aeonium arboreum is a bushy cactus succulent in the genus Aeonium, part of the Crassulaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Aeonium arboreum grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1c. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal, patio and container plants, sub-tropical, mediterranean climate plants and architectural.
About
Aeonium arboreum, commonly known as the houseleek tree or Irish rose, is a bushy succulent belonging to the Crassulaceae family. This evergreen plant typically reaches 1 to 1.5 metres in height and spread over 5 to 10 years. It thrives in full sun with a west or south-facing aspect and prefers sheltered conditions. Aeonium arboreum grows well in well-drained loam or sandy soils across a range of pH levels, making it suitable for conservatories or greenhouses. It is especially notable for its winter interest.
About the genus
Aeonium, the tree houseleeks, is a genus of about 35 species of succulent, subtropical plants of the family Crassulaceae. Many species are popular in horticulture. The genus name comes from the ancient Greek αἰώνιος / aiōnios (ageless).
Wikipedia contributors, "Aeonium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Aeonium
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Aeonium
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1c
Plant details
Aeonium arboreum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 1-1.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical, Mediterranean climate plants, Architectural
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Aeonium arboreum
- Propagation
- Seed, Rosette cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Aeonium arboreum?
Aeonium arboreum prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Aeonium arboreum need?
Aeonium arboreum grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Aeonium arboreum grow?
Aeonium arboreum reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 1-1.5 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
Is Aeonium arboreum hardy in the UK?
Aeonium arboreum has an RHS hardiness rating of H1c, meaning it needs a warm, frost-free position of 5–10°C and is best grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Aeonium arboreum?
Seed, Rosette cuttings.
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