Aeonium - Hime Meikyou
Aeonium 'Hime Meikyou' is a charming and relatively small succulent cultivar celebrated for its compact rosettes of spoon-shaped leaves adorned with striking variegation. This delightful plant offers a delicate yet eye-catching aesthetic, making it a popular choice for succulent enthusiasts who appreciate intricate patterns and manageable sizes.
Key Features of Aeonium 'Hime Meikyou'
- Compact Rosettes: Forms small, tight rosettes of fleshy leaves.
- Spoon-Shaped Leaves: The leaves are typically spoon-shaped, widening towards the tip.
- Striking Variegation: The leaves exhibit beautiful variegation, often displaying a mix of creamy white or yellow and shades of green. The intensity and pattern of variegation can vary.
- Red or Pink Edges: The leaf margins often develop attractive red or pink hues, especially when exposed to more sunlight or cooler temperatures.
- Relatively Small Size: Remains a small and manageable succulent, ideal for small pots and arrangements.
- Clustering Habit: Can slowly form clusters of rosettes over time.
Care for Your Aeonium 'Hime Meikyou'
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its vibrant colors and compact form. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense afternoon sun should be avoided, especially during hot periods, as it can scorch the delicate variegated leaves.
- Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus and succulent mix is suitable.
- Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering should be avoided. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
- Temperature: Prefers mild temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions. It may appreciate slightly cooler temperatures during its dormant period.
- Humidity: Adapts to average humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
- Removing Dead Leaves: Gently remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosettes to maintain a clean appearance and prevent potential pest issues.
- Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot only slightly larger with good drainage. Spring is generally the best time for repotting.
- Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests such as aphids and mealybugs, which can sometimes be found nestled within the rosettes. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (typically spring and autumn in its natural cycle) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
- Offsets (Pups): The easiest method is by carefully separating the small offsets that grow around the base of the mother plant. Ensure the offsets have developed some roots before separating them and planting them in their own pots with well-draining soil.
- Stem Cuttings: Take healthy stem cuttings, allow the cut end to callus for a few days, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Aeonium 'Hime Meikyou' is a delightful and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent that brings a touch of intricate beauty with its variegated spoon-shaped leaves and compact rosettes. Its manageable size and attractive coloration make it a charming addition to any succulent collection or arrangement.
* 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.