Dark Beauty: A Guide to Growing and Caring for Aeonium Carol Plants

Dark Beauty: A Guide to Growing and Caring for Aeonium Carol Plants
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An Introduction to Aeonium Carol

Aeonium Carol is a beautiful and unique succulent that is gaining popularity among plant enthusiasts and collectors. This aeonium features gorgeous dark burgundy foliage and a striking rose-like shape. With its dark colors and eye-catching form, it's no wonder Aeonium Carol has become such a coveted plant.

The Origins of Aeonium Carol

Aeonium Carol is a hybrid aeonium that was first developed in the 1990s by breeding Aeonium arboreum with Aeonium undulatum. Carol18650, a succulent nursery in Belgium, is credited with creating this hybrid aeonium variety. The "Carol" portion of the name comes from the breeding nursery while the "18650" refers to the individual plant that was selected from the hybrid crosses.

Since its debut on the plant market, Aeonium Carol has remained very rare and hard to find. It propagates slowly which limits availability. But its distinctive features have made it a stand-out aeonium variety that both amateur and expert succulent aficionados seek out.

The Appearance of Aeonium Carol

One of the most striking features of Aeonium Carol is its deep purple-black foliage. The leaves emerge with a burgundy red hue along the edges when young, maturing to a rich black purple. The older leaves near the base of the plant are generally the darkest.

The rosette shape of Aeonium Carol also garners attention. The loosely arranged leaves form a rose-like shape, mimicking flowers. The rosettes grow up to 12 inches wide. Younger rosettes may start out smaller in diameter before maturing.

During the winter and spring months, Aeonium Carol sends up flowering stalks. The small, star-shaped yellowish flowers emerge on branched panicles rising from the centers of the rosettes up to 20 inches tall.

How to Grow Aeonium Carol

While beautiful, Aeonium Carol does require some specific care in order to thrive. Following best practices for meeting its needs will lead to happy, healthy plants.

Sun and Temperature

Aeonium Carol thrives best in full sun. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. More sun exposure will bring out the richest coloration in the leaves. Aeonium Carol can tolerate high heat and intense sunlight once acclimated.

These plants also appreciate warm temperatures between 60-80°F on average. They can handle brief temperature dips to 30°F but extended cold snaps below freezing can damage the plant. Bring potted plants indoors if frost threatens your area.

Soil and Water

Well-draining soil is critical for Aeonium Carol. These succulents store water primarily in their leaves rather than their roots, so wet soil leads to rot. Sandy, gritty mixes work perfectly to mimic the rocky, porous soils of their native range.

Only water Aeonium Carol when the soil has fully dried out. The thinner leaves will exhibit some wrinkling as they lose moisture. Avoid watering on set schedules. Instead, check soil moisture before adding any additional water. Allow all excess moisture to fully percolate through the soil after watering to prevent soggy conditions.

Fertilizer

During the active growing season from spring through summer, you can fertilize Aeonium Carol every 2-3 weeks using a balanced diluted liquid fertilizer or a slow-release pelleted fertilizer. Avoid high nitrogen formulations. Discontinue fertilizer as growth slows by fall and winter.

Pruning

To keep Aeonium Carol looking tidy and encourage new growth, you can prune off any dried-out or damaged leaves as needed. Pruning cuts should be made close to the stem. Avoid removing more than 30% of the foliage at one time to prevent stress.

As lower leaves age, you can also cut rosette stems back to just above the live leaves to refresh the plant’s appearance. New offsets will often arise just beneath the cut.

How to Propagate Aeonium Carol

Propagating Aeonium Carol from stem cuttings is quite straightforward. Simply use a sterile, sharp knife to detach a rosette stem with several leaves attached. Allow the cut end to dry and callous over for a few days before potting up in appropriate succulent soil blend. New roots and small plantlets will emerge in several weeks.

Leaf cuttings are also possible but can be more challenging. Each individual leaf must include a small portion of attached stem. Not all leaves will readily root so start with several cuttings to improve success rate.

Offsets that arise around the base of the plant can also be gently removed and potted up once they reach a reasonable size. This allows you to expand your collection with genetically identical new Aeonium Carol plants.

Common Problems with Aeonium Carol

When provided with suitable growing conditions, Aeonium Carol proves hardy and vigorous. But the plant can struggle with a few potential issues to be aware of.

Poor Drainage and Overwatering

Excess moisture is the most common culprit leading to trouble. Soggy soil quickly causes root and stem rot which can kill Aeonium Carol. Only water when the top few inches become completely dry. Always use a fast-draining potting mix and never leave standing water in the saucer after watering.

Insufficient Sun Exposure

Without adequate sunlight, Aeonium Carol growth will become stretched and leggy. The unique dark leaves may also fade or lose color vibrancy. Ensure the plant receives at minimum 6 hours of direct sun every day.

Relocating potted plants seasonally can help guarantee sufficient sunlight, especially in winter. You may also employ supplemental grow lights to help illuminate your plants sufficiently during darker months.

Pest Problems

Typical houseplant pests including mealybugs, aphids, or fungus gnats may arise. Isolate and promptly treat any infected plants to prevent spreading issues. Employ gentle, natural control methods if possible to avoid damage to the delicate rosette leaves.

Tips for Displaying Aeonium Carol

This stunning plant deserves prominent display placement so its dramatic form and colors can shine. Consider positioning Aeonium Carol centrally as a focal point surrounded by other potted plants or incorporate multiple rosettes clustered within a succulent garden bed.

Pair Aeonium Carol with green-leafed aeonium or echeveria varieties for an eye-catching contrast. Blue-hued agave and senecio work nicely as well. For indoor settings, place pots atop plant pedestals or plant shelves to elevate the rosettes closer to eye view.

Aeonium Carol makes a statement solo as a potted plant or grouped together for greater visual impact. Just be sure to give this rare, exotic succulent sufficient space to show off its beautifully bold form and deep black-purple foliage.

FAQs

How often should I water Aeonium Carol?

Aeonium Carol should only be watered when the top few inches of soil have completely dried out. Check soil moisture before watering and avoid watering on set schedules. These succulents prefer a dry soil environment.

What type of soil should I use for Aeonium Carol?

A fast-draining cactus & succulent soil mix works best. You can make your own by mixing regular potting soil with sand, perlite, or gravel to improve drainage. Avoid standard potting mix alone as it retains too much moisture.

How much sunlight does Aeonium Carol need?

Aeonium Carol requires at least 6 hours of direct bright sunlight every day to thrive. Providing less light will result in leggy, weaker growth. Place or relocate plants as needed to receive sufficient sun exposure.

Should I fertilize my Aeonium Carol?

Yes, you can fertilize Aeonium Carol during the active growing season using a balanced diluted liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter as growth slows. Never fertilize stressed plants.

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