cactus succulent

Lava-field aeonium

Aeonium lancerottense

The Story

Plant Bio

Aeonium lancerottense is a densely branched succulent subshrub native to the volcanic soils of Lanzarote, forming a low, hemispherical mound of ascending stems. Fleshy, smooth, green to yellowish-green leaves with reddish margins are arranged in flat terminal rosettes that reach up to seven inches in diameter.

In summer, cone-shaped clusters of whitish flowers with distinctive pink median stripes rise on strong stalks up to two feet above the foliage. The plant undergoes a semi-dormancy period during the heat of summer, during which its water requirements drop significantly.

Uses & Benefits:

Forms architectural, symmetrical rosettes with striking reddish margins that provide year-round structure in mild climates or containers.

Highly drought-tolerant and salt-tolerant, making it an excellent low-maintenance choice for dry coastal gardens.

Provides nectar for small native bees and generalist insect pollinators during its summer blooming period.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Cactus Succulent

Height

24"

Width

35"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low to Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Canary Islands (Lanzarote)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site with full sun to partial shade, ensuring protection from intense, baking afternoon sun which can scorch the foliage.
Plant in exceptionally well-draining soil, such as a gritty sandy loam or a specialized cactus and succulent potting mix.
Water deeply but infrequently during the active winter and spring growth phases, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Withhold water almost entirely during the hot summer months when the plant enters its natural semi-dormancy.

Pro Tip

Do not mistake summer leaf curling for dehydration; this is a natural heat-defense mechanism, and watering during this semi-dormant period frequently causes fatal root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Ensure the planting medium has sharp, immediate drainage to prevent wet soil from rotting the root system.
Protect the plant from hard freezes, as it is tender and suffers damage below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Remove spent flower stalks and completely dried lower leaves to maintain a clean appearance.

Don't

Do not overwater during the summer dormancy period when the plant's metabolic activity slows.
Do not prune aggressively into old, leafless woody stems, as these areas often fail to produce new buds.
Do not apply heavy horticultural oils to treat pests, as these ruin the natural finish of the leaves.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Rock gardensCoastal gardensContainer specimensSucculent bedsDry borders

Companion Plants

Echeveria Dudleya Senecio mandraliscae Cotyledon orbiculata

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lava-field aeonium questions

What zones can Lava-field aeonium grow in?

Lava-field aeonium is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Lava-field aeonium deer resistant?

Yes — Lava-field aeonium is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Lava-field aeonium bloom?

Lava-field aeonium typically blooms in summer through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Lava-field aeonium need full sun?

Lava-field aeonium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Lava-field aeonium drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lava-field aeonium handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.