Known for its colorful leaves and striking rosettes, Aeonium haworthii has long been a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts and house plant enthusiasts alike. We have not overlooked this amazing succulent either. In this article, we will describe the various characteristics of Haworth’s aeonium and provide a comprehensive guide to growing Aeonium Pinwheel. We will also discuss some popular varieties of Aeonium haworthii. Hopefully, this article is sure to give you valuable insights into the fascinating world of Haworth’s aeonium.
Classification and description of the species Aeonium haworthii
Synonyms: Sempervivum haworthii
Common name: Pinwheel Plant, Aeonium Pinwheel, Haworth’s Aeonium
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
genus: Aeonium
Aeonium haworthii was first described by the eminent British botanist Adrian Hardy Haworth in 1812. He named the species after himself, using the Latinized version of his surname (Haworthii). This plant species, like all members of the genus Aeonium, is native to the Canary Islands and North Africa.
It is a slow growing plant that may take several years to reach its full size. The succulent usually grows to 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall and 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) wide. However, under ideal growing conditions, Aeonium haworthii can reach larger sizes. Some specimens are known to grow up to 35 inches (90 cm) tall and 39 inches (1 meter) wide. It is worth understanding that the size of an adult plant depends on many factors, such as growing conditions, age and genetics.
Aeonium haworthii has a characteristic spiral pattern of leaves that form rosettes. The leaves are thick and fleshy, slightly pointed, and can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) long and 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) wide. They are arranged compactly and the rosette looks like a wheel, which gave the plant its common name.
Aeonium Pinwheel has light green leaves, the color of which changes depending on the amount of sunlight received. For example, leaves in direct sunlight may turn yellow or even change to brown at the tips, but under low light the leaves will be dark green. If the plant is under stress, reddish or purple hues may appear on the tips of the leaves of the plant.
In summer, Haworth’s aeonium produces bunches of small yellow flowers on tall flower stems. The flowers are star-shaped and grow in dense, conical bunches. The first flowering can be expected in the second or third year.
Growing Aeonium Haworthii or Pinwheel plant indoors
The Aeonium Pinwheel is a relatively easy plant to grow, even for beginners. If you have decided to get your hands on this plant, here are some tips to get you started.
Soil
Haworth’s Aeonium prefers well-drained soil that allows excess water to drain easily. Keep in mind that most Aeonium species naturally grow on the Canary Islands, where the soil is dominated by volcanic pumice. This must be taken into consideration. A good quality soil mixture for cacti or succulents is ideal for this plant because of its high drainage capacity. If you want to prepare the soil mixture yourself, use regular potting soil, add to it perlite, as well as pumice or coarse sand to improve drainage. The proportions of all ingredients should be equal.
Pot
The Pinwheel has a shallow but fairly extensive root system. The succulent requires a pot that will provide good drainage and air circulation around the roots. It is best to choose a pot that is slightly larger than the plant’s current root system. The pot should have drainage holes in the bottom to keep water from accumulating in the soil. It is best to use a terra cotta or ceramic pot, as they are both good options for succulent plants. Terracotta pots are porous and allow air and water movement, while ceramic pots are non-porous and retain moisture longer.
Whichever pot you choose, make sure it will provide adequate drainage and is large enough for the plant to grow.
Lighting
Aeonium haworthii needs bright, indirect light to grow well. Place the plant near an east- or west-facing window where it can get at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. A southern window will also work, but you will need to shade the plant on the hottest days of summer. If the plant gets too much direct sunlight, this can cause the leaves to burn or wilt. If the plant does not receive enough light, it may become sluggish or lose its shape. There is a balance to be struck here.
Temperature and Humidity
Haworth’s Aeonium prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate low humidity levels, but occasional misting of the leaves can help keep the plant healthy. During the hot months of summer, Aeoniums tend to hibernate and stop their growth.
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Water
The Pinwheel is drought-resistant and prefers dry soil. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. When watering, saturate the soil with moisture and let the excess water drain from the pot. Avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot and plant death.
It is generally recommended to water Aeonium haworthii once every two to three weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. The plant needs even less water during dormancy and the watering frequency can be reduced to once a month or even less.
It is important to avoid overwatering Haworth’s Aeonium, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.
Fertilizer
Aeonium haworthii is a slow-growing plant and does not require frequent fertilization. Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer). Stop feeding during the dormancy period. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, as over-fertilization can damage the succulent plant.
Dormancy period
Aeonium haworthii is native to the Canary Islands. For the most part, Aeoniums usually go into dormancy during periods of drought or lack of light. However, the exact timing of dormancy can vary depending on factors such as climate, growing conditions, and plant health.
In its natural habitat, Pinwheel Plant usually goes into dormancy during the hot, dry summer months. During this time, the plant may drop some of its leaves and slow its growth. However, if the plant is grown in a cooler or wetter environment, it may not go into complete dormancy.
If you grow Haworth’s Aeonium indoors, you may notice that the plant goes through a period of reduced growth during the winter months when light levels are lower. During this time, the plant does not need as much water and fertilizer as it does during the period of active growth.
Worth knowing. The onset of dormancy for Aeonium haworthii can depend on many factors, but it is most likely to occur during periods of low light or drought.
Pruning
You can trim Aeonium Pinwheel to control its size and shape. Use clean, sharp scissors to remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems. Pruning can also stimulate new growth and give the plant a fuller appearance. Avoid too much pruning, however, as it can cause stress and negatively affect the health of the plant.
Propagation Aeonium haworthii
The easiest way to propagate this succulent is with stem cuttings. Cut off the top of the stem and leave the cuttings to callus for a few days, then plant them in a well-drained soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and place the plant in bright, indirect light until it can take roots and begin new growth.
Problems when caring for Haworth’s Aeonium
What problems can a florist encounter when growing Aeonium haworthii?
- Root rot: This is a common problem with all succulents. Aeonium haworthii is a drought tolerant plant and does not need frequent watering. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. It is important to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and to ensure proper drainage in the pot.
- Poor soil or drainage: A well-drained soil is essential for the Aeonium Haworth to thrive. If the soil is too compacted and poorly drained, it can also lead to root rot and other problems. It is important to use a well-draining substrate and make sure the pot has enough drainage holes.
- Poor lighting: Aeonium havorta needs full sunlight to maintain healthy growth. If the plant doesn’t get enough light, the leaves may turn pale and the plant itself may become elongated or sluggish. It is important to place the plant in a sunny location or provide artificial light if necessary.
- Pests: Eonium haworta is susceptible to mealy bugs and spider mites, which can damage the plant and cause it to decline. It is important to inspect the plant regularly for signs of pests and to treat any infestation in a timely manner.
Varieties of Aeonium haworthii
There are several varieties of Haworth’s Aeonium, each with its own distinctive characteristics.
- Aeonium haworthii ‘Kiwi’: This variety has a rosette shape with bright green leaves with a pinkish red edge. The center of the rosette turns reddish pink in full sun or when stressed.
- Aeonium haworthii “Bicolor”: This variety is rosette shaped with green leaves with white mottled leaves. The edges of the leaves turn pinkish red in full sun or when stressed.
- Aeonium haworthii “Kiwi Verde”: This variety has a rosette shape with green leaves with a yellow edge. The center of the rosette turns reddish pink in full sun or when stressed.
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