Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’
Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’ is a beautiful and unique succulent that is perfect for adding a touch of color and interest to any garden. Native to the Canary Islands, this plant is characterized by its bright green leaves with yellow margins. Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’ is a relatively easy plant to care for, and with proper care, it can thrive for many years.
Quick Information:
- This succulent loves to be in full sun to partial shade.
- Typical water needs.
- It can grow up to 12″ (30.5 cm) tall and 36″ (91 cm) wide.
- Unfortunately, it’s not cold hardy.
- Grow in Zone 9a (Minimum 20° F | -6.7° C).
- You can propagate it by stem cuttings and leaves.
- It can be toxic to humans and animals.
- It’s also dormant in the summer.
History of Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’
Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’ is a hybrid cultivar that was created by crossing Aeonium haworthii and Aeonium decorum. It was first introduced to the public in the early 1990s by the California-based nursery, Sunset Western Garden Collection. Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’ is named after the festive Carnival season that is celebrated in many parts of the world.
The plant’s leaves are variegated with yellow, green, and purple colors, which resemble the colors of Mardi Gras. This cultivar is a fast-growing succulent that can reach up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall and 3 feet (90 cm) wide. It is a relatively drought-tolerant plant and can tolerate full sun to partial shade.
Physical Characteristics of Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’
Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’ is a hybrid succulent that was created by crossing Aeonium haworthii and Aeonium decorum. It is a relatively new plant, first being introduced in the early 2000s. The leaves of ‘Mardi Gras’ are variegated with green, yellow, and pink colors. The leaves are also slightly ruffled and have a waxy texture. The flowers of ‘Mardi Gras’ are small and yellow in color.
They typically bloom in the springtime. This plant is perfect for those who want to add a splash of color to their succulent collection. ‘Mardi Gras’ is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much water or sunlight. It is important to note that this plant is poisonous if ingested, so it should be kept away from pets and small children.
Care and Maintenance of Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’
Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’ is a beautiful and unique plant that is perfect for adding a touch of color to any garden. Though it is not the easiest plant to care for, with a little bit of knowledge and effort, any gardener can successfully grow and maintain an Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’ plant.
When it comes to watering, Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’ plants are very drought tolerant and only need to be watered every two to three weeks. However, during the hotter months of the year, they may need to be watered more frequently.
It is important to make sure that the soil is completely dry before watering again. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so be sure to err on the side of caution. Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’ plants prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. If they are grown in too much shade, they will become leggy and produce fewer flowers. These plants do best in well-drained soil that is high in organic matter. They are also quite tolerant of poor soil conditions.
Fertilizing is not necessary, but if you choose to do so, use a balanced fertilizer that is low in nitrogen. Too much nitrogen will cause the leaves to turn green instead of the desired red coloration. Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’ plants are heavy feeders and will benefit from being fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.
Pruning is not typically necessary, but if you find that your plant is getting too big or leggy, you can trim it back as needed. Be sure to use sharp
How to Propagate Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras'
To propagate Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’, first take a stem cutting that includes a leaf. It is best to take the cutting from new growth near the tips of the plant. Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long. Next, remove the bottom leaves of the cutting so that there are only 2-3 leaves remaining. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and then plant it in a well-draining potting mix.
Water the soil lightly and place the pot in a bright, warm location but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not wet and in about 4-6 weeks, roots should form and new growth will appear.
Conclusion
Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’ is a beautiful and unique plant that is perfect for adding a touch of color to any garden. With its bright colors and easy care, this plant is sure to be a favorite among gardeners of all levels of experience.
