Aeonium smithii (Sims) Webb & Berthel.
Smith's aeonium
Aeonium smithii is a succulent endemic to Tenerife that grows in shaded ravines and humid rocky walls in laurel forest, at altitudes of 400–1,200 m. It is distinguished by its narrow, lanceolate leaves with reddish dentate-ciliate margins and its striking yellow flowers with red streaks. Unlike many aeoniums, it prefers shadier, cooler positions.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Aeonium |
| Growth Habit | Succulent subshrub with short, sparingly branched stems bearing one or few rosettes of long narrow leaves, 20–50 cm tall. |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable (VU) per IUCN Red List criteria due to its range restricted to Tenerife and pressure from invasive species on the laurel forest. |
| pH Target | 5.5 – 7.0 |
| Type | Rocky with organic matter, well-drained with some moisture retention |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Lanceolate to spatulate leaves, 5–12 cm long, mid-green with red-ciliate margins and a slightly sticky surface. The combination of red margins and green blade creates an attractive bicolour appearance.
ecoLarge cymose inflorescence, 15–30 cm, with numerous flowers of 9–11 yellow petals with longitudinal red streaks, highly ornamental. Flowers in spring (February–May). The flowering rosette may die after blooming.
ecoShort, rarely branched stems, 10–25 cm, with prominent leaf scars and a slightly woody base. Generally upright or somewhat inclined over rocky substrate.
ecoFibrous, shallow roots that anchor in rock cracks and fissures, exploiting the accumulation of moist organic matter characteristic of laurel forest.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Rocky with organic matter, well-drained with some moisture retention
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Cut a rosette with 3–5 cm of stem using sterilised scissors.
- 2 Allow the cut to dry for 12–24 hours (no longer, as it needs some moisture).
- 3 Plant in slightly moist perlite/compost mix (2:1).
- 4 Keep in bright shade at 15–20 °C.
- 5 Transplant when roots are visible (4–6 weeks).
Keep in a cool, shaded position; dry heat deteriorates leaves rapidly.
Exposing to full summer sun — scorches leaves and induces severe stress.
Every 2–3 years, in September–October at the start of growth.
Balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to 50%, once a month from October to April. No fertiliser in summer.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No known relevant toxic properties.
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Plant Health
Aphid (Aphis spp.) — can affect inflorescences in spring.
Root rot from Pythium in poorly aerated substrates or with excessive summer watering.
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"A. smithii is one of the most ornamental-flowered aeoniums in the Canarian archipelago. The species was originally described as Sempervivum smithii by John Sims in 1812 in honour of botanist James Edward Smith. Flowering rosettes may die, but the plant produces lateral offsets if the stem is robust enough."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.