Aeonium - Haworthii Kiwi
Aeonium haworthii 'Kiwi' is a charming and colorful succulent cultivar, prized for its rosettes of spoon-shaped leaves that display a delightful variegation of green, yellow, and often pink or red along the edges, reminiscent of the hues of a kiwi fruit. This relatively small and branching Aeonium adds a vibrant and cheerful touch to succulent collections and arrangements.
Key Features of Aeonium haworthii 'Kiwi'
- Variegated Rosettes: The most distinctive feature is its small, open rosettes of spoon-shaped leaves displaying a striking variegation of bright green centers, creamy yellow bands, and often flushed with pink or red along the margins, especially when exposed to more sunlight or cooler temperatures.
- Branching Habit: Unlike many single-rosette Aeoniums, 'Kiwi' readily branches, forming a small, shrubby plant over time.
- Small to Medium Size: Typically remains a relatively compact plant, making it well-suited for container gardening.
- Air Roots: Mature stems may develop aerial roots along their length, which can be a natural characteristic of Aeoniums.
- Yellow Flowers: Mature plants can produce clusters of small, star-shaped, bright yellow flowers on tall stalks, though flowering typically occurs after several years and the flowering rosette will die back afterwards (though the plant usually has other rosettes to continue growing).
Care for Your Aeonium haworthii 'Kiwi'
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its vibrant variegation. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch the delicate leaves. Insufficient light can lead to duller colors and leggy growth.
- Soil: Requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus and succulent mix is suitable.
- Watering: Water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch, especially during the active growing season (spring and fall). Reduce watering significantly during the summer dormancy and cooler winter months.
- Temperature: Prefers mild temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions. While it can tolerate some heat, it may go somewhat dormant in very hot summer conditions.
- Humidity: Adapts to average humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
- Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosettes and along the stems to maintain a clean appearance and prevent potential pest issues.
- Pruning: Pruning can be done to shape the plant or to remove any leggy growth. It is best done during the active growing season. Cuttings can be easily rooted.
- Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot only slightly larger with good drainage. Spring or early fall are good times for repotting.
- Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests such as aphids and mealybugs. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
- Stem Cuttings: A very easy and reliable method. Take healthy stem cuttings a few inches long, allow the cut ends to callus over for a few days, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
- Offsets (Branch Cuttings): As 'Kiwi' branches readily, individual rosettes with a portion of stem can be removed and treated as stem cuttings.
- Leaf Cuttings: While possible with Aeoniums, leaf propagation is generally less reliable and slower than stem cuttings.
Aeonium haworthii 'Kiwi' is a delightful and relatively easy-to-grow succulent that brings a burst of cheerful color and interesting branching patterns to any collection. Its vibrant variegated rosettes make it a popular choice for adding visual interest to indoor and outdoor succulent displays.
* 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.