Aeonium 'Zwartkop'

Evergreen succulent with an open habit growing up to 1m tall.

Dark purple rosettes of leaves provide a striking backdrop for the plant's yellow flowers in spring.

Prefers full sun and well-draining sandy soil. South or west-facing aspect is ideal.

Heavy clay soils are unsuitable, but conditions can be improved by adding plenty of course grit or pumice, or by creating raised beds filled with gritty soil. Always choose healthy, well-grown plants and plant after autumn rains. Before planting, ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball, press in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period.

Aeonium are great low-maintenance plants. After planting, it is advisable to mulch using crushed stone rather than bark, which will hold too much moisture in winter. Pot-grown succulents should be watered sparingly in winter; give just enough to prevent shriveling. Allow to dry out between waterings in summer. Generally, avoid using fertilisers around succulents, as this will lead to excessive soft growth and poor foliage colour. However, container-grown plants respond well to slow-release fertiliser.

Relatively pest and disease free.

Rock Garden