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Black Rose Aeonium (Aeonium arboreum)

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Black Rose Aeonium

Intermediate

Aeonium arboreum

An impressive succulent with dark purple to black rosettes. Winter grower, dormant in summer.

Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
3〜35℃
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
30-100cm
Humidity
30〜50%
Watering
Moderate watering

About

Aeonium arboreum is a tree-forming succulent from the Canary Islands, best known through the cultivar 'Zwartkop' (Black Rose), which bears dramatically dark purple to near-black rosettes. The striking coloration is most intense in full sun; plants grown in shade develop a more greenish hue. Rosettes reach 10–20 cm across on branching stems that can grow 30–100 cm tall. As a winter-growing plant, A. arboreum is active from autumn through spring and enters dormancy in summer, when the leaves curl inward to reduce water loss. Watering should follow the growing season: regular in cool months, drastically reduced or ceased in summer. Excessive heat and humidity during dormancy are the main hazards. Propagation from stem cuttings, including detached rosettes, is reliable and fast.

Size of the Black Rose Aeonium

The Black Rose Aeonium grows to 30-100cm.

Temperature & humidity for the Black Rose Aeonium

Plants tolerate light frosts down to about 3–5°C.

Basic Info

Origin

Canary Islands

Lifespan

Perennial

Size

30-100cm

Temperature

3〜35℃

Humidity

30〜50%

Watering & Fertilizer

Moderate watering

Growing Tips

Light & Placement

The more direct sun it gets, the blacker the leaves; in shade they turn greenish. Give it full sun from autumn to spring.

Watering

Water thoroughly once the soil dries during the autumn-to-spring growing season. In summer withhold water or give only a tiny amount.

Temperature & Overwintering

Tolerates lows of about 3-5°C but must avoid frost. Overwinter under eaves or in a bright indoor spot.

Dormancy Care

A winter grower that closes its leaves and rests in summer. It dislikes rainy-season wetness and hot humid summers, so rest it in a cool, airy spot.

Propagation

Very easy from cuttings. Simply let a cut rosette dry, then insert it into soil and it will root.

Black RoseWinter growerBlack rosetteAeonium

Black Rose Aeonium FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Black Rose Aeonium?
A

Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.

QHow large does Black Rose Aeonium get?
A

The mature size of Black Rose Aeonium is 30-100cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Black Rose Aeonium?
A

Black Rose Aeonium: watering & fertilizer — Moderate watering. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Black Rose Aeonium?
A

The price of Black Rose Aeonium varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: August 31, 2026

Growing Specifications

Hardiness (RHS)
H1c

Sources: RHS Find a Plant

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Aeonium arboreum (L.) Webb & Berthel.

Synonyms: Sempervivum arboreum

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Sources: CITES Appendices — taxon not listed

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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