Aeonium ‘Cyclops’
Aeonium ‘Cyclops’ is actually a superb crossbreed. It is a gorgeous succulent that forms rosettes of dark reddish-bronze leaves on stems that grow up to 4 feet (1.2 m) high. The rosettes depend on 18 inches (45 centimeters) in size. Often referred to by the typical name gigantic red aeonium with a lively electrical green “eye”. The newest emerging leaves are green, which provides the rosettes a “green eye”. It grows rapidly and also creates small, yellow, star-shaped blossoms on racemes from late wintertime via very early springtime. The blossom stems emerge from the center of the rosettes.
Characteristics
Aeonium ‘Cyclops’ is a striking hybrid Aeonium, known for its large, colorful rosettes and robust growth. It’s a cross between Aeonium undulatum and Aeonium arboreum ‘Zwartkop’, combining the best features of both parents.
- Appearance: This succulent features large, fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette pattern atop thick, woody stems. The plant can become quite tall and branchy, resembling a small tree.
- Color: The leaves are a dramatic dark burgundy or reddish-bronze, with a green center. The color intensifies with more sun exposure, creating a stunning contrast.
- Size: The rosettes can grow quite large, often exceeding 12 inches in diameter. The plant itself can reach several feet in height, especially when it is about to bloom.
- Flowers: Aeonium ‘Cyclops’ produces tall spikes of bright yellow flowers, which contrast beautifully against the dark foliage. The flowering typically occurs in late winter to early spring.
Cultivation and Propagation
Aeonium ‘Cyclops’ requires similar care to other large Aeoniums but with some additional considerations due to its size and color.
- Light Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Adequate sunlight is crucial for maintaining the dark coloration of the leaves. Too little light can result in greener foliage.
- Soil: Needs well-draining soil, ideally a mix designed for succulents and cacti.
- Watering: Water thoroughly but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Over-watering can lead to root rot.
- Temperature: It prefers mild climates and is not frost-tolerant. In colder regions, it is advisable to grow it in containers that can be brought indoors during winter.
- Propagation: Can be propagated through stem cuttings or offsets. Cut a stem, let it dry and callous for a few days, then plant in well-draining soil.
Aeonium ‘Cyclops’, with its large, dramatic rosettes and striking color, makes a bold statement in succulent gardens, large containers, or as a standalone feature.
Aeonium Cyclops Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Aeonium Cyclops does well in full sun to partial sun
Aeonium Cyclops can grow up to 4 feet tall
Aeonium Cyclops can grow up to 18 inches wide
No Aeonium Cyclops is not cold hardy
Aeonium Cyclops can be propagated by cuttings, leaves, offsets or seeds
Aeonium Cyclops is generally non-toxic to humans or animals
The plant hardiness zone for Aeonium Cyclops is Zone 9 to Zone 11
The Aeonium Cyclops heat zones range from Zone 4 to Zone 9
Aeonium Cyclops requires well drained soil
Aeonium Cyclops is a low maintenance succulent plant
Other Types of Aeonium
- Aeonium Kiwi
- Aeonium Nobile
- Aeonium Arboreum cv ‘Zwartkop’
- Aeonium Arboreum ‘Luteovariegatum’
- Aeonium decorum
- Aeonium hierrense
- Crested Aeonium Sunburst
- Aeonium lancerottense
- Aeonium goochiae
- Aeonium haworthii
- Aeonium arboreum var atropurpureum
- Aeonium Castello-Paivae
- Aeonium lindleyi
- Aeonium Cuneatum
- Aeonium canariense
- Aeonium undulatum
- Aeonium urbicum
- Aeonium gomerense
- Aeonium leucoblepharum
- Aeonium tabuliforme ‘Dinner Plate Aeonium’
- Aeonium ‘Jack Catlin’
- Aeonium ‘Starburst’
- Aeonium ‘Sunburst’
- Aeonium Mascaense