Stalked aeonium (Aeonium undulatum)
Discover Aeonium undulatum, the Stalked aeonium. A striking succulent for dry or medium soils. Grow in Zones 10-11.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Stalked aeonium, scientifically known as Aeonium undulatum, presents an architectural focal point in succulent and xeriscape gardens. This evergreen subshrub is prized for its sizable, glossy green rosettes whose leaves often display attractive wavy margins. Native to the Canary Islands, this species is relatively easy to cultivate, thriving in conditions that mimic its arid, rocky origins.
When mature, this succulent may produce tall stalks bearing star-shaped yellow flowers, though flowering is often infrequent, sometimes taking up to five years between blooms. While beautiful, gardeners should note that the rosette producing the bloom will die after flowering, making careful management important for single-headed specimens of Aeonium undulatum.
For gardeners in appropriate climates, the Stalked aeonium adds strong texture and structure year-round. These visually appealing plants combine well with other Mediterranean or desert-adapted species, offering low-water solutions for sunny borders and rockeries.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Crassulaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Native Range: Canary Islands
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 10-11
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 2-3 ft
- Spread: 1-2 ft
- Bloom Time: Seasonal bloomer
- Bloom Description: Yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Dry to medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Planting the Stalked aeonium is best achieved when conditions are stable, though potted specimens can be situated almost anytime. Ensure the chosen site offers excellent drainage, utilizing sandy or gritty mixes suitable for succulents. Aeonium undulatum prefers full sun but benefits from partial afternoon shade in the hottest climates to prevent scorching.
Care is straightforward, requiring dry to medium soil moisture. Allow the soil to become dry between deep waterings; overwatering is the fastest route to root rot. Fertilization is rarely necessary for established plants, but a diluted, balanced feed applied in spring may encourage robust growth. Pruning generally involves removing spent flower stalks or damaged foliage.
In cooler regions outside USDA Zone 10, treat the Stalked aeonium as an annual or a container plant. Plants grown in pots can be successfully overwintered indoors by moving them to a bright, sunny window when night temperatures approach threatening frost levels, keeping soil relatively dry during winter dormancy. Propagate easily using rosette cuttings taken from healthy stock.
Landscape Uses
The structure of Aeonium undulatum makes it an exceptional choice for specialized plantings like cactus or succulent gardens. Here, the large, sculptural rosettes contrast dramatically with the finer textures of aloes, agaves, and jade plants, creating year-round visual appeal with minimal water consumption. They also excel in rockeries where sharp drainage is guaranteed.
For northern gardeners, growing the Stalked aeonium in pots is highly recommended. Containers allow you to move this magnificent specimen—often called the saucer plant—to protect it from winter cold while showcasing its form on patios or sunny decks during the summer months. Use high-quality, fast-draining potting media for container culture.
Placement in sunny borders works well where other drought-tolerant perennials are featured. Ensure the area receives enough light to maintain compact rosette shape, remembering that the visual impact of the Stalked aeonium shines brightest when paired with contrasting foliage colors or shapes.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Aeonium undulatum, commonly known as saucer plant, is a succulent evergreen subshrub in the orpine family that typically grows to 2-3’ tall. It is native to the Canary Islands. This plant features large rosettes of fleshy, spoon-shaped, glossy green leaves (each leaf to 4-8” long). Leaves are often wavy-edged and sometimes have hair-fringed margins. Small, star-shaped, dark yellow flowers bloom in large terminal pyramidal panicles atop stems rising above the foliage rosettes to 1-2’ tall. Most plants do not flower every year (some take up to 5 years to flower).
Tolerances
No specific tolerance data provided.
Potential Problems
The primary threat to Aeonium undulatum culture is overly moist soil, which rapidly leads to root rot. Management centers on perfect drainage and careful watering practices, especially during dormant winter periods.
Pests commonly associated with succulents may target the foliage of the Stalked aeonium. Watch for infestations of aphids, mealybugs, mites, or scale insects. If pests are detected, treat immediately using horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, ensuring coverage reaches the tight spaces within the leaf rosettes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Stalked aeonium suitable for?
The Stalked aeonium performs best in USDA Hardiness Zones 10 through 11. It can tolerate brief periods of very light frost down to 28–30°F if kept dry.
How large does Stalked aeonium grow?
This plant typically matures to a height between 2 and 3 feet tall, with a corresponding spread of 1 to 2 feet wide.
What sun exposure does Aeonium undulatum need?
Aeonium undulatum prefers full sun but will tolerate light shade. Ensure it still receives several hours of direct light daily to maintain good form.
When does Stalked aeonium bloom?
It blooms seasonally, producing clusters of small, dark yellow, star-shaped flowers atop tall stems that rise above the rosette.
Conclusion
The Stalked aeonium (Aeonium undulatum) offers a superb combination of architectural form and drought tolerance, making it a reliable choice for low-maintenance succulent displays. By providing sharp drainage and appropriate sunlight, you can successfully incorporate this beautiful rosette-forming plant into your landscape or container garden. Always confirm your local USDA zone suitability before planting outdoors.
Companion Planting
When designing a garden featuring Aeonium undulatum, select other drought-tolerant succulents that share similar cultural needs. Consider pairing it with species of Agave or Aloe to maximize textural contrast; the bold, smooth leaves of the Stalked aeonium contrast nicely against spikier, fibrous neighbors. For arid-land borders, incorporate gravel mulches which help reflect heat and ensure the fast drainage that this plant requires.
Container Growing
Container cultivation is an excellent strategy for maximizing the aesthetic impact of the saucer plant while ensuring protection in cooler zones. Use a dedicated cactus and succulent potting mix, enhancing it further with extra perlite or pumice to improve aeration. Ensure pots have large drainage holes, as terracotta vessels are often preferred as they wick away excess moisture from the soil faster than plastic. Water only when the top few inches of soil are completely dry.
