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Aeonium - Atropurpureum

Aeonium - Atropurpureum

Aeonium atropurpureum is a striking succulent renowned for its large rosettes of deep purple to almost black leaves, creating a dramatic focal point in any garden or container. This impressive plant, a member of the Crassulaceae family, offers a bold and architectural presence, particularly when its rich coloration is fully expressed under ample sunlight.

 

Key Features of Aeonium atropurpureum

  • Large Rosettes: Forms substantial rosettes that can reach impressive sizes, often up to a foot or more in diameter.
  • Deep Purple to Black Leaves: The leaves are typically a deep, rich purple that can appear almost black, especially in strong sunlight. The intensity of the color can vary with light exposure and temperature.
  • Spoon-Shaped Leaves: The individual leaves are usually somewhat spoon-shaped and fleshy.
  • Monocarpic Nature (Sometimes): While not strictly monocarpic in all cultivated forms, mature rosettes may eventually produce a tall flower spike and then die. However, they often produce offsets before this occurs.
  • Relatively Branching: Over time, the plant can develop multiple rosettes on branching stems.
  • Winter Growing: Unlike many succulents that are summer dormant, Aeonium atropurpureum typically grows most actively during the cooler months.

 

Care for Your Aeonium atropurpureum

  • Light: Requires full sun to develop its deepest purple coloration. Inadequate light can result in greener leaves and leggy growth.
  • Soil: Needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus and succulent mix is suitable.
  • Watering: Water thoroughly during the active growing season (fall, winter, and spring) when the soil is dry to the touch. Reduce watering significantly during the summer dormancy period.
  • Temperature: Prefers mild temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
  • Humidity: Tolerates average humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.

 

Maintenance for a Healthy Plant

  • Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosettes.
  • Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot only slightly larger with good drainage. Fall or early spring, at the start of the growing season, is a good time for repotting.
  • Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests such as aphids and mealybugs. Treat any infestations promptly.
  • Deadheading Flower Spikes: If a rosette flowers and begins to die, remove the flower spike to maintain the appearance of other rosettes and encourage offset production.

 

Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection

  • Offsets (Pups): The easiest method is by separating the offsets that grow around the base of the main rosette. Once they have developed their own roots, they can be carefully removed and potted individually. Allow the cut surfaces to callus over for a day or two before planting.
  • Stem Cuttings: Stem cuttings can be taken, allowed to callus for a few days, and then planted in well-draining soil.
  • Leaf Cuttings: While possible, leaf propagation is less reliable with Aeoniums.

 

Aeonium atropurpureum is a truly striking and relatively easy-to-grow succulent that provides dramatic color and architectural interest to any succulent garden or container arrangement. Its large, dark purple rosettes make it a standout specimen, especially when grown in bright sunlight.

 

 

* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.

 

** All plants will be posted bare rooted.

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