Aeonium Kiwi: Complete Guide To Planting, Growing, And Care
Proper light, soil, and watering bring out the tricolor vibrancy of this succulent.
How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Aeonium Kiwi (Aeonium haworthii âTricolorâ)
Aeonium kiwi, also known as Aeonium haworthii ‘Tricolor’, is a vibrant, multicolored succulent prized for its bright, spoon-shaped rosettes with green, yellow, and pink hues. Whether grown as a container centerpiece or in a sunny outdoor landscape, this eye-catching plant offers year-round beauty and relative ease for beginner and seasoned gardeners alike.
Aeonium Kiwi Overview
- Botanical Name: Aeonium haworthii âTricolorâ
- Common Names: Aeonium Kiwi, Dream Color, Tricolor Aeonium
- Native Region: Canary Islands, Northern Africa
- Plant Type: Perennial succulent
- Height: Up to 8â12 inches (20â30cm)
- Spread: 12â18 inches (30â46cm)
- Leaf Color: Green centers with yellow variegation and pink to red margins in sunlight
- Flowers: Star-shaped, yellow to golden, bloom in summer (on mature plants)
- USDA Hardiness: Zones 9â11 (frost-sensitive)
Plant Description and Unique Features
Aeonium kiwi forms tight rosettes of fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves. Young leaves are mostly lime green, developing yellow variegation toward the margins and pink to red trim when exposed to bright light. As the plant matures, the rosettes branch out, creating a compact, shrubby appearance.
- Leaf Rosettes: Grow 3â5 inches in diameter, with attractive color gradients.
- Stem: Thin, woody stems hold the rosettes above the soil line.
- Offsets: Produces pups or side rosettes that cluster around the base, giving a âmini-treeâ effect.
- Flowers: Mature plants can send up a cluster of yellow, star-shaped flowers from the center of mature rosettesâbut after blooming, those rosettes die back, making room for new ones.
Light Requirements
Aeonium kiwi thrives in bright, indirect sunlight with some direct morning sun. Outdoors, it enjoys dappled or filtered sunlight; indoors, place it close to a bright, south- or east-facing window.
- Too Little Sun: Rosettes become pale, elongated (leggy), and may lose vibrant color.
- Too Much Sun: Leaves can develop sunscald or faded patches; protect from harsh midday rays in hot climates.
- Ideal Spot: Bright shade, filtered light, or morning sun with afternoon protection.
Soil and Potting
This succulent needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Commercial cactus or succulent mix works well. If using standard potting soil, mix in perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to enhance drainage. Aim for a slightly acidic or neutral pH.
- Recommended Soil Mix:
- 2 parts cactus/succulent soil
- 1 part perlite or pumice
- Pots: Use containers with adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Terracotta pots are ideal for allowing soil to dry between waterings.
Watering Aeonium Kiwi
Aeonium kiwi prefers its soil to be slightly moist but never saturated. Its shallow roots call for lighter, more frequent watering than some other succulentsâespecially during the active growing period (fall to spring).
- Watering Frequency:
- Once per week in spring and winter (active growth periods)
- Every 2 weeks (or less) in summer during dormancy
- Allow the top 1â2 inches of soil to dry before watering again
- Summer Dormancy: Water sparingly; the plant rests and leaves may curl to conserve moisture.
- Signs of Overwatering: Soft, mushy, brown leaves and rotten roots.
- Signs of Underwatering: Wilting, droopy, or shriveled leaves.
What others are reading
Always err on the side of underwateringâavoid letting water sit in the rosette or around the base.
Temperature and Humidity
- Optimal Temperature: 65â75°F (18â24°C) during the day
- Cold Sensitivity: Protect from frost and freezing temperatures below 40°F (4°C). Aeonium kiwi is not frost-hardy.
- Move Indoors: In regions with cold winters, bring container plants inside before the first frost.
- Humidity: Prefers low to moderate humidity. Good air circulation helps prevent disease.
Fertilization
Fertilize Aeonium kiwi sparingly. While it doesnât require extra nutrients in rich garden soil, container-grown plants benefit from monthly feeding with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (fall to spring).
- Type: Use half-strength balanced fertilizer or a cactus/succulent formula.
- Frequency: Once per month during active growth (not during summer dormancy).
- Avoid over-fertilization or fertilizing when dormant.
Pruning and General Maintenance
- Pruning: Trim away dead or leggy stems to promote compact growth and more dense rosettes.
- Repotting: Every 2â3 years or when rootbound. Spring is the ideal time to repot. Choose a pot just larger than the previous one with good drainage.
- Rootbound Plants: Aeoniums donât mind being slightly rootbound.
- Cleaning: Remove fallen or unhealthy leaves to maintain airflow and prevent disease.
Propagation
Propagating Aeonium kiwi is remarkably simple via stem cuttings or offsets. Hereâs how:
- Using a clean, sharp knife or scissors, take a healthy 3â6 inch stem or side rosette (offset).
- Allow the cut end to callous (dry out) for 1â2 days in a cool, dry spot. This helps prevent rot when planted.
- Plant the cutting in well-draining succulent mix. Water lightly to moisten the soil.
- Place in bright, indirect light, keeping the soil slightly moist (but never soggy) until roots form (about 2â4 weeks).
- After rooting, gradually resume standard watering and transition to brighter conditions as needed.
- Offsets: Gently pull or cut side rosettes, let callous, and pot as above. Rooted tops will form new plants; be patient with the base, as it may produce new shoots as well.
Note: Aeoniums rarely propagate by leaf cuttings; always use stem or offset divisions for best results.
Common Problems: Pests & Diseases
Root Rot
- Most frequent issue, caused by excessive soil moisture.
- Symptoms: Mushy, discolored roots and base, collapsed foliage.
- Solution: Uproot plant, trim away rotted roots, allow to dry, replant in fresh, dry succulent soil. Water after 2â3 days.
- Prevention: Ensure excellent soil drainage, never let roots sit in water.
Mealybugs and Spider Mites
- Occasional sap-sucking pests that appear as white tufts or tiny webbing on leaves and stems.
- Treatment: Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or soapy water spray directly on affected areas. Remove infested leaves and improve air flow.
Other Issues
- Leggy or stretched plants: Not enough light; move to a brighter location.
- Faded color: Too little sunlight.
- Leaf shrinkage/curling: Normal in summer dormancy or mild dehydration.
Seasonality and Dormancy
- Growth Season: Fall to springâsucculent grows, produces offsets, and requires regular care.
- Dormancy: Summer. Growth slows or stops, leaves may curl to conserve water, and the plant uses less moisture.
- Water lightly during dormancy; do not fertilize or repot.
Landscape and Container Uses
Aeonium kiwi brings color and texture to many planting settings:
- Mixed Succulent Displays: Combines beautifully with Echeveria, Sedum, and Graptopetalum for dynamic container arrangements.
- Outdoor Borders: In mild climates, plants can line paths, borders, or rock gardens. Protect from frost or move containers indoors as needed.
- Drought-tolerant beds: Perfect for xeriscaping or Mediterranean gardens.
- Houseplant: Brightens indoor spaces with vibrant color. Ensure high light and good air circulation.
Toxicity
- Aeonium kiwi is non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for households with children and animals.
Troubleshooting and Quick Care Tips
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Drooping, limp leaves | Underwatering | Water thoroughly, allow excess to drain |
| Mushy stems/leaves | Overwatering, poor drainage | Reduce watering; repot in fast-draining mix |
| Browning tips/edges | Sunburn or fertilizer burn | Move to shadier spot, dilute fertilizer |
| Faded color, sparse growth | Insufficient sunlight | Increase light gradually |
| Stunted growth | Outgrown pot, rootbound | Repot to slightly larger container in spring |
| Pest infestation | Mealybugs, spider mites | Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do Aeonium Kiwi succulents flower?
A: Mature Aeonium kiwis can flower, typically in summer. They produce star-shaped yellow blooms from mature rosettes, after which those rosettes often die backâbut new ones grow from the base.
Q: Is Aeonium Kiwi cold-hardy?
A: No, it is frost sensitive. Temperatures below 40°F (4°C) can damage or kill the plant. Grow in containers if winters are cold so you can move them indoors.
Q: How big does Aeonium Kiwi get?
A: Rosettes typically reach 3â5 inches in diameter, with entire plants stretching 8â12 inches tall and up to 18 inches wide as they branch and offset.
Q: Are Aeonium Kiwi plants toxic to pets?
A: Aeoniums are not known to be toxic to cats, dogs, or humansâsafe to grow around children and pets.
Q: Can I grow Aeonium Kiwi indoors?
A: Absolutely. Provide as much bright light as possibleâa sunny window or under strong grow lights. Avoid dark corners, and rotate the pot for even growth. Moderate watering is key.
Q: Why are my Aeonium Kiwi leaves curling?
A: Curling leaves most often indicate heat or summer dormancy. This is a natural way for the plant to conserve moisture.
Final Growing Tips for Aeonium Kiwi
- Do: Use sharply draining soil, protect from scorching sun, and water modestly.
- Avoid: Overwatering, letting roots sit in wet soil, and repotting during summer dormancy.
- Enjoy these colorful, low-maintenance succulents indoors or outdoors, providing seasonal color and textural interest year-round.
With a little attention to watering and sunlight, your Aeonium kiwi will reward you with dazzling color combinations and joyful new rosettes for years to come.
References
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