Aichryson pulchellum C.A.Mey.
Pretty aichryson
Annual or biennial plant whose specific epithet "pulchellum" (= pretty, beautiful) refers to the attractive regularity of its rosettes and the bright yellow of its star-shaped flowers. Distributed in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Madeira, it grows on rocky slopes and in ravines between 200 and 800 m altitude. Its compact, well-formed rosettes distinguish it from other more lax Aichryson.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Aichryson |
| Growth Habit | Compact annual or biennial rosette, low to medium habit |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern; present in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Madeira |
| pH Target | 5.8–7.0 |
| Type | General-purpose compost with sand, slightly acid to neutral |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Obovate to spatulate, 1.5–2.5 cm, with slightly ciliate margins; medium green with a sheen, densely covered in glandular trichomes.
ecoErect, 10–25 cm, with moderate branching that maintains the symmetry of the terminal rosettes.
ecoFlowers with 7–8 bright yellow petals, very showy; grouped in well-defined terminal cymes, blooming in winter and spring.
ecoFibrous roots of moderate depth; exploit the organic-rich surface horizons of ravines.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
General-purpose compost with sand, slightly acid to neutral
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Mix fine seeds with sand for even distribution when sowing.
- 2 Sow shallowly in moist peat-perlite substrate at 18–20 °C.
- 3 Cover the seed tray with transparent film to retain humidity; remove on germination.
- 4 Transplant when seedlings have 4–5 true leaves.
- 1 Cut the apical rosette with 3–4 cm of stem.
- 2 Allow the cut to dry for 24 hours in the shade.
- 3 Insert into slightly moist substrate and keep in partial shade.
- 4 Begin moderate watering when new leaves are observed emerging.
The yellow flowers last several weeks and are very attractive; do not remove them to enjoy fruiting.
Watering from above into the rosettes, leaving water pooled between leaves and causing rot.
Each year at the start of autumn; short-cycle plant
Balanced liquid fertilizer at half dose once every three weeks in spring
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No known toxicity.
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"The epithet "pulchellum" was assigned in the 19th century by C.A. Meyer, who noted that this species bore the most symmetrical and aesthetically striking rosettes in the genus."
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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.