Aichryson laxum (Haw.) Bramwell
Lax aichryson
Annual or biennial succulent adapted to drier and warmer habitats at low Canarian elevations — a distinguishing feature compared to most Aichryson, which prefer humid shade. Forms open, lax rosettes of greyish-green fleshy leaves on volcanic rocks and stony slopes. Its ability to colonise rock crevices under sparse rainfall sets it apart from the rest of the genus.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Aichryson |
| Growth Habit | Open and lax annual or biennial rosette, low to medium habit |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern; tolerates disturbed habitats and arid coastal zones |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.5 |
| Type | Sandy-volcanic with some organic matter |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Spatulate, 1.5–3 cm long, thicker and more succulent than other Aichryson; greyish-green with less dense glandular pubescence.
ecoErect to prostrate, 8–25 cm tall, often branched from the base; internodes longer than in other Aichryson, giving the lax appearance.
ecoFlowers with 6–7 narrow yellow petals in loose terminal cymes; flowering from winter to early spring.
ecoFibrous roots with greater drought tolerance than other Aichryson; able to grow in narrow basaltic rock crevices.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy-volcanic with some organic matter
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow in autumn in sandy substrate with 20% leaf mould, without covering seeds.
- 2 Keep at 16–22 °C with bright indirect light and fine waterings.
- 3 Thin seedlings to 3–4 cm spacing when the first leaf pair appears.
- 4 Transplant to final position after 6–8 weeks.
- 1 Detach lateral rosettes with a 2–3 cm stem.
- 2 Allow the cut to cure for 1–2 days in a cool, ventilated spot.
- 3 Plant in sandy substrate and withhold watering for the first 5 days.
- 4 Once rooted, move to a sunnier position.
Adapt watering to the season: more frequent in winter (active growth) and reduced in summer.
Overwatering in summer when the plant is semi-dormant.
Annual/biennial plant; generally propagated from seed each season
Diluted mineral fertilizer once a month during active growth period (autumn–spring)
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Not toxic to people or domestic animals.
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"A. laxum is the most ecologically plastic Aichryson in the genus, surviving in both arid coastal scrub and semi-arid mid-elevation environments, making it a candidate for degraded habitat restoration."
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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.