Aeonium arboreum ‘Green’
Very tough winter growing succulent, perfect for the coast. Bright yellow blooms late spring through summer. Plant in well-drained soil. Needs no water once established in shade.
 Height | 2–3ft |
|---|---|
 Width | 1–2ft |
 Tolerates | Coast, Cool Summers, Drought, Fog, Gophers, Pots, Neglect, Salt, Wind |
 Water needs | Low |
Aeoniums are from the Mediterranean, making them a care-free plant for Bay Area gardeners. It is natural for aeonium heads to shed lower leaves during summer, becoming smaller and more compact. Once winter rains come the heads expand, adding many new leaves. This summer stress is a wonderful seasonal change in the Mediterranean garden. Once established, most aeoniums will survive in Bay Area gardens without additional water. Water your aeoniums at least once a month during summer and they will look more full and lush. Be sure to let the soil dry between watering or you risk root rot or aphids. | |
 Hardy to | 30°F |
 Exposure | Full Shade |
 Plant traits | Monocarpic, Sculptural, Succulent, Suckering |
 Indoor / outdoor | Outdoor |
 Drainage | In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Sandy Soil |
 Fertilizing | All Purpose, Low Needs |
 Origin | Canary Islands |
 California native | No |
 Sunset zones | 15–17, 20–24 |
Growing Notes
Most aeoniums are monocarpic, meaning that a head will die once it flowers, usually replaced by the lower suckers on clumping varieties. This can often be overcome by removing the flower (but leaving the stem that held it) once the flower is past peak bloom. It will take time, but with some luck you'll get new growth along that stem instead of having it die completely.
Aeoniums tend to be brittle, so they should be kept away from high traffic areas where physical damage is a possibility.
When over-fertilized, aeoniums grow lush and soft, attracting aphids.
Special Interest
This Aeonium is easily propagate from stem cuttings, just snap a stem halfway down in the fall and plant it half of the way into your soil. Wait a week to water.
We have seen this plant naturalize on the central coast of California, without being particularly aggressive.
The above information reflects the observations of Grubb and Nadler and our extended plant community. We always consider input from fellow horticulturists and welcome feedback from those with additional information on the culture of this plant.
© 2020–2026 Grubb and Nadler. All rights reserved.