Flat-topped Aeonium
Aeonium tabuliforme
tabuliforme
About this plant
Aeonium tabuliforme is a unique succulent known for its perfectly flat, circular rosette of shiny green leaves that lie close to the ground. It grows slowly and forms a striking, plate-like shape, making it popular for rock gardens and succulent collections. Native to the Canary Islands, it is admired for its architectural form and low water needs.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Aeonium
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Saxifragales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Canary Islands
- Distribution
- Native to the Canary Islands; cultivated worldwide as an ornamental succulent.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Watering. Water thoroughly but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) about once a month. Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant is dormant.
Aeonium tabuliforme is a succulent that prefers bright light and well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant but should be watered moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot. It requires minimal maintenance and is fairly easy to care for once its watering needs are understood.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Flat, circular rosette of bright green leaves; star-shaped yellow flowers in spring.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets. Safe to keep around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Aeonium tabuliforme is generally safe and unlikely to cause allergies. However, people sensitive to plant sap might experience mild skin irritation if they touch the leaves or cut the plant. To reduce risk, avoid direct contact with the sap and wash hands after handling.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot and leaf drop. Insufficient light may cause the plant to stretch and lose its compact shape. Pests like aphids or mealybugs can occasionally appear.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its unique flat rosette shape and drought tolerance. Suitable for rock gardens, containers, and indoor succulent collections.
Notes
Prune dead leaves to keep the plant tidy. Repot only when necessary, as Aeonium tabuliforme prefers to be slightly root-bound. Protect from frost and excessive moisture.