Aichryson dichotomum (DC.) Webb & Berthel.
Branching aichryson
Annual or biennial plant distributed across several Canary Islands, characterised by its dichotomous (forking) branching pattern from which its name derives. Forms loose rosettes at branch tips, with fleshy, sticky leaves ranging from pale green to yellowish. Inhabits laurel forest and humid ravines between 400 and 1000 m, often growing on mosses or in rock crevices.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Aichryson |
| Growth Habit | Annual or biennial rosette with erect, dichotomously branched stems |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern; widely distributed across several Canary Islands |
| pH Target | 5.5–6.8 |
| Type | Leaf mould, moist slightly acidic substrate |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Spatulate to obovate, 1–3 cm long, pale green to yellowish, with sticky glandular hairs that trap small insects.
ecoHerbaceous, erect, 10–30 cm tall, with repeated dichotomous branching that creates a candelabra-like structure.
ecoStar-shaped flowers with 7–9 yellow petals, grouped in dense terminal cymes; flowering from winter to spring.
ecoShallow fibrous roots adapted to grow on mosses, leaf mould, and rock crevices with limited soil volume.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Leaf mould, moist slightly acidic substrate
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Collect seeds when capsules turn brown and begin to open.
- 2 Sow shallowly on moist leaf mould and fine sand substrate.
- 3 Keep at 15–20 °C in partial shade with constant humidity.
- 4 Thin seedlings when 2–3 cm tall, keeping the most vigorous.
- 1 Cut branched tips of 3–5 cm bearing a well-formed rosette.
- 2 Allow to dry for 12 hours and plant in moist leaf mould.
- 3 Keep in partial shade and mist occasionally to maintain humidity.
- 4 Transplant to a permanent pot after 4–6 weeks.
Provide high ambient humidity similar to that of the Canarian laurel forest.
Insufficient watering causing premature drying of the annual plant.
Annual/biennial plant; replanted from seed each season
Balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to quarter strength, fortnightly in spring
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Not toxic to humans or domestic animals.
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"The dichotomous branching of A. dichotomum is morphologically unusual within the genus and aids field identification even outside the flowering season."
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Scientific Integrity
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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.