Aeonium ‘Velour’ is a striking, evergreen succulent that belongs to the Aeonium genus, known for its attractive rosettes of fleshy leaves and showy appearance. This easy-to-grow plant thrives in warm climates and adds a touch of elegance to any garden, particularly in coastal, gravel and rock, and Mediterranean-style gardens. With proper care, Aeonium ‘Velour’ can reach a height of 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) and a spread of 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm). In this article, we will explore the main caring considerations for this beautiful plant, including watering, light care, and soil care, as well as other important factors such as growing region, growth rate, and companion plants.
Main Caring Considerations
Watering
Aeonium ‘Velour’ requires low to average watering, as it is a drought-tolerant plant. During the hot summer months, water your Aeonium ‘Velour’ once every 7 to 10 days, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. In the cooler months, reduce the watering frequency to once every 3 to 4 weeks. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to be mindful of the plant’s watering needs.
Light Care
This succulent thrives in full sun exposure, which means it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If you are growing Aeonium ‘Velour’ in a container, be sure to place it in a sunny spot, preferably outdoors. If you must grow it indoors, place it near a south-facing window to ensure it receives adequate sunlight.
Soil Care
Aeonium ‘Velour’ prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic, alkaline, or neutral pH. A mixture of loam and sand is ideal for this plant, as it provides the necessary drainage while also retaining some moisture. Be sure to use a well-draining potting mix if growing Aeonium ‘Velour’ in a container.
Growing Region
This succulent is best suited to USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9, which encompass a wide variety of climates. Aeonium ‘Velour’ is tolerant of salt and can be grown in coastal regions, making it an excellent choice for seaside gardens.
Growth Rate, Height, Size, and Spread
Aeonium ‘Velour’ has a moderate growth rate, and with proper care, it can reach a height of 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) and a spread of 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm). Its attractive rosettes of leaves can grow up to 30 inches (75 cm) in diameter.
Season and Temperature
This evergreen succulent can be grown year-round in suitable climates, and it is hardy to temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C). However, it is important to protect Aeonium ‘Velour’ from frost, as extreme cold can damage the plant.
Pruning
Aeonium ‘Velour’ requires minimal pruning. Simply remove any dead or damaged leaves as they appear to maintain the plant’s health and appearance.
Flowering
When properly cared for, Aeonium ‘Velour’ produces showy, yellow flowers in the spring and summer months. These flowers attract pollinators, adding an extra layer of beauty to your garden.
Pests
Aeonium ‘Velour’ is relatively pest-resistant, but it can occasionally be affected by common succulent pests such as mealybugs and aphids. If you notice any pests on your plant, treat them with an insecticidal soap or neem oil to keep them under control.
Attracts
This plant is deer-resistant, making it an excellent choice for gardens where deer are a common problem. It is also drought and salt-tolerant, making it a versatile addition to various garden styles.
Garden Styles
Aeonium ‘Velour’ is well-suited to coastal gardens, gravel and rock gardens, and Mediterranean gardens. It can also be grown in beds and borders, as well as in patio containers, allowing for a wide range of gardening styles and applications.
Companion Plants
When planning your garden, consider pairing Aeonium ‘Velour’ with other drought-tolerant plants such as Agave, Echeveria, and Sedum, which share similar growth requirements and will complement the appearance of your Aeonium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aeonium ‘Velour’ toxic to pets?
Aeonium ‘Velour’ is not considered toxic to pets, making it a safe addition to gardens with dogs or cats.
Can I propagate Aeonium ‘Velour’ from cuttings?
Yes, Aeonium ‘Velour’ can be easily propagated from cuttings. Simply remove a healthy rosette, allow it to dry for a few days, and then plant it in well-draining soil.
Conclusion
Aeonium ‘Velour’ is a stunning, evergreen succulent that is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your garden or patio. With proper care, including appropriate watering, light exposure, and soil composition, your Aeonium ‘Velour’ will thrive and bring beauty to your outdoor space for years to come.
