Aeonium arboreum 'Schwarzkopf'
Aeonium arboreum 'Schwarzkopf'
A dramatic showstopper succulent featuring large rosettes of glossy, deep burgundy-black leaves that appear almost black in bright light. This tree-like aeonium develops a distinctive branching structure as it matures, creating a striking architectural presence that commands attention in any garden or collection. The contrast between its dark foliage and bright yellow flowers makes it one of the most sought-after succulents.
Harvest
N/Ad
Days to harvest
Sun
Partial sun to bright shade
Zones
9–11
USDA hardiness
Height
0-5 feet
Complete Growing Guide
Soil: Loam (Silt), Sand. Soil pH: Acid (<6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Occasionally Dry, Very Dry. Height: 0 ft. 3 in. - 5 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 0 ft. 6 in. - 5 ft. 0 in.. Spacing: Less than 12 inches, 12 inches-3 feet, 3 feet-6 feet. Growth rate: Slow. Maintenance: Aeonium arboreum, Aeonium canariense, Aeonium decorum (Green Pinwheel), Aeonium haworthii (Haworth's Aeonium), Aeonium tabulaeforme, Aeonium undulatum, 'Blushing Beauty', 'Carol', 'Cyclops', 'Emerald Ice', 'Jack Catlin', 'Lily Pad', 'Mardi Gras', 'Mint Saucer', 'Plum Purdy', 'Zwartkop' (Black Rose). Propagation: Division, Leaf Cutting, Seed, Stem Cutting.
Harvesting
Bloom time: Spring, Winter
History & Origin
Origin: Macaronesia, SW Morocco, NE & East Africa and to SW Arabia
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Deer, Drought, Heat, Humidity, Salt
- +Attracts: Colorful, Textural
- +Wildlife value: Attracts bees.
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Sedum varieties
Similar water and light requirements, creates attractive textural contrast
Echeveria
Complementary growth habits and matching drought tolerance
Lavender
Repels pests and thrives in same well-draining, low-water conditions
Rosemary
Aromatic oils deter insects while sharing similar Mediterranean growing needs
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Compatible watering schedule and provides structural contrast
Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum)
Ground-covering habit complements upright growth, same care requirements
Agave
Architectural complement with identical drought tolerance and sun exposure needs
Thyme
Low-growing aromatic herb that deters pests and requires minimal water
Keep Apart
Impatiens
Requires frequent watering which can cause root rot in succulents
Hostas
Needs shade and consistent moisture, opposite of succulent requirements
Ferns
High humidity and moisture needs conflict with succulent's dry conditions
Begonias
Regular watering schedule promotes fungal issues in drought-adapted succulents
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Good in proper conditions, sensitive to extreme heat and overwatering
Common Pests
Aphids, mealybugs, scale insects
Diseases
Root rot, crown rot from overwatering or poor air circulation