Aichryson tortuosum (Aiton) Webb & Berthel.
Twisted aichryson
The most widespread and ecologically versatile Aichryson in the genus, present across all major Canary Islands over a very wide altitudinal range (0–1200 m) and in habitats as different as arid coastal scrub, ravines, and laurel forest. Its name "tortuosum" refers to the somewhat twisted habit of its stems. Annual or biennial, it forms branched clusters of rosettes with the characteristic sticky leaves of the genus. Its great ecological plasticity makes it the best-known representative of Aichryson in the Canaries.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Aichryson |
| Growth Habit | Annual or biennial rosette with slightly twisted erect stems and moderate branching |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern; most common in the genus with wide distribution across the Canarian archipelago |
| pH Target | 5.5–7.5 |
| Type | Wide tolerance; prefers well-aerated mineral-organic substrate |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Spatulate to obovate, 1.5–3 cm long; green to yellowish-green, with dense sticky glandular hairiness; margins slightly wavy.
ecoErect, 10–35 cm tall, with a tendency towards slight twisting (tortuosity) at the internodes; branches from mid-height.
ecoStar-shaped flowers with 7–9 deep yellow petals; form abundant terminal cymes covering the branched plant tip.
ecoFibrous root system of variable depth depending on substrate; wide tolerance of poor, rocky, low-nutrient soils.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Wide tolerance; prefers well-aerated mineral-organic substrate
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow shallowly on slightly moist substrate in autumn.
- 2 Keep at 16–22 °C with bright indirect light.
- 3 Thin seedlings when 1 cm tall, retaining the most vigorous.
- 4 Transplant to the final location after 6–8 weeks.
- 1 Cut stems of 4–8 cm bearing at least one well-formed apical rosette.
- 2 Allow to dry in shade for 1–2 days.
- 3 Plant in sandy substrate; water lightly after 5–7 days.
- 4 Move to more light once rooting is confirmed.
The easiest species in the genus to cultivate; ideal for beginners in Macaronesian flora.
Overwatering in summer causing stem-base rot.
Annual/biennial plant; propagate by seed or cutting each season
Balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks in autumn and spring
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Not toxic to humans or domestic animals.
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"A. tortuosum shows the greatest ecological plasticity in the genus and serves as a study model for understanding how annual and biennial Aichryson adapt to the climatic gradients of the Canarian archipelago, from the arid coast to the humid laurel forest."
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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.