Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'
cactus succulent RHS Award

Black Rose Aeonium

Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Cactus Succulent

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9

Water

Low water needs

Humidity

Low humidity preferred

Lifespan

Many years with proper care

Native To

Canary Islands

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop' features striking dark purple to nearly black rosettes of fleshy leaves and can produce yellow flowers during blooming. This cultivar is particularly valued for its dramatic, near-black foliage which provides striking contrast in gardens and container arrangements.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesDramatic dark foliage provides striking visual interest in xeriscapes and rock gardens.
Practical UsesRequires minimal watering, making it ideal for water-wise gardening.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native pollinators when in bloom, and tolerates poor soils.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck cuttings into well-draining soil in late spring.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly daily until roots develop, about 2-3 weeks.
  3. Ensure the plant receives bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth.
  4. Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings.
  5. Fertilize with cactus or succulent fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
  6. Transplant to a larger pot when roots become crowded, typically after 1 year.

Pro Tip

Use a cactus-specific soil mix for excellent drainage and healthy roots.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide bright, indirect sunlight for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
  • Allow soil to dry completely between waterings ❌ overwatering can cause root rot
  • Use well-draining soil to prevent water retention
  • Apply cactus fertilizer during the active growing season
  • Protect from frost in colder zones

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in winter ❌ it can lead to root rot
  • Don’t expose to prolonged direct sunlight in extreme heat
  • Never use heavy clay soil that retains moisture
  • Don’t forget to bring indoors during frost periods
  • Avoid high humidity environments

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Propagate
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sculptural succulent centerpieceLow-maintenance rock garden accentDrought-tolerant container display

Companion Plants

Sedum Agave Echeveria Aloe Vera Crassula

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Black Rose Aeonium questions

What zones can Black Rose Aeonium grow in?

Black Rose 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 Black Rose Aeonium deer resistant?

Yes β€” Black Rose Aeonium is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Black Rose Aeonium bloom?

Black Rose Aeonium typically blooms in late winter to early spring through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Black Rose Aeonium need full sun?

Black Rose Aeonium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Black Rose Aeonium drought tolerant?

Yes β€” once established (usually after the first full season), Black Rose Aeonium handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Black Rose Aeonium with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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