Aeonium lindleyi
Lindley's Aeonium
Aeonium lindleyi is a succulent shrub endemic to Tenerife, described in 1840 by Webb and Berthelot, growing mainly on dry rocky slopes and ravines at low to mid elevation. It is characterised by viscid (sticky) and pubescent leaves — a diagnostic feature distinguishing it from other Aeonium species on Tenerife. Two recognised subspecies exist: the nominal subsp. lindleyi and subsp. viscatum, differing slightly in indumentum density and leaf morphology. Like all Aeonium, it is a winter grower, active during autumn–winter and dormant in summer. A documented traditional use is the application of its leaves as a contact antidote against the irritating sap of Euphorbia.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Aeonium |
| Growth Habit | Low branching winter-growing succulent shrub with viscid, pubescent leaf rosettes |
| Conservation Status | Not formally assessed by IUCN; endemic to Tenerife with restricted distribution, though populations are considered stable in undisturbed habitats |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.0 |
| Type | Thin, very well-drained volcanic soil |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Obovate-spatulate, 2–5 cm long, viscid and tomentose (covered in glandular and non-glandular hairs), medium to dark green. The sticky texture is the most distinctive trait of this species.
ecoYellow, 7–9-petalled, arranged in terminal panicles 8–15 cm long. Flowering occurs in late winter or spring. The rosette that flowers dies after fruit maturation.
ecoShort, semi-woody, 0.5–1.5 cm in diameter, with numerous leaf scars. Produces several branches from the base, forming dense clumps up to 50 cm tall.
ecoFibrous and shallow, adapted to the thin volcanic soils of Tenerife. They penetrate rock crevices to anchor the plant on steep slopes.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Thin, very well-drained volcanic soil
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
Take cuttings at the start of autumn; avoid wetting leaves during rooting
Watering directly onto the rosette causes rot due to moisture retention in the indumentum
Every 2–3 years at the start of autumn
Diluted succulent fertilizer once a month from October to February; no fertilization in summer
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No documented toxicity for humans or common pets. The viscid leaves can trap small insects but are not actively insectivorous.
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Plant Health
Basal rot (Phytophthora spp., Fusarium spp.) — leaf indumentum retains moisture and increases risk if watering reaches the rosette
Mealybug (Planococcus citri) — hides under tomentose leaves; harder to detect than in other species
Grey mould (Botrytis cinerea) — favoured by viscid texture in high-humidity, poorly ventilated conditions
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"The viscid leaves of A. lindleyi likely serve a defense function against invertebrate herbivores; the species is unique among Tenerife Aeonium for this trait. The traditional use as an antidote against Euphorbia has not been scientifically validated but is documented ethnobotanically."
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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.