Plate No. 36
Sunburst Aeonium
Aeonium 'Sunburst'
"A pinwheel painted in cream and rose"
Native to
A garden hybrid of Canary Islands species

History
A brief account
Sunburst Aeonium is a showy variegated cultivar whose cream, green, and copper-pink stripes make it look almost like a miniature stained-glass window. Raised in California in the mid-20th century from Aeonium davidbramwellii, it quickly became prized for the way its foliage glows when backlit by the sun. The rosettes are compact and elegant, giving the plant a polished presence that feels both modern and slightly dramatic. It is a beautiful choice for bright interiors and sunny gardens where its colour can be fully appreciated.
How to care for
Place Sunburst Aeonium according to its light needs: Bright light with a few hours of gentle sun. Full harsh sun scorches the variegation. For watering, regularly in the cool growing months; dry in summer dormancy. For the potting medium, use loamy, fast-draining mix. Good drainage is essential: let surplus water escape freely and never leave the roots standing in a wet saucer.
5–25°C. Frost-tender. Check the compost before watering instead of following a rigid calendar, since light, temperature, pot size and season all affect how quickly it dries. During slower growth, reduce watering and wait longer between drinks.
How to propagate
Rosette cuttings root easily after a brief callous. Propagation is most reliable during the plant's active growing season, when warmth and good light help new roots establish. Start with clean tools and healthy material, and keep the new plant in conditions appropriate for the parent.
Where a cutting or division creates a wound, allow the surface to dry before planting unless the method calls for immediate rooting in water or moist mix. Once roots form and fresh growth appears, gradually move the young Sunburst Aeonium into its normal watering routine; excess moisture is especially risky while the root system is still small.
Cultivation
Quick tips for care & planting
- Light
- Bright light with a few hours of gentle sun. Full harsh sun scorches the variegation.
- Water
- Regularly in the cool growing months; dry in summer dormancy.
- Soil
- Loamy, fast-draining mix.
- Temperature
- 5–25°C. Frost-tender.
- Propagation
- Rosette cuttings root easily after a brief callous.