Rosette Succulent
Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'
A dramatic black rose succulent that forms stunning dark purple-black rosettes on branching stems. This architectural beauty creates incredible contrast in succulent arrangements and turns nearly black in bright light. The rosettes can reach impressive sizes and occasionally produce tall spikes of bright yellow flowers.
Sun
Bright light to partial sun
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
Lavender
Shares similar water requirements and repels pests while providing aromatic ground cover
Thyme
Drought-tolerant herb that complements succulents' water needs and deters harmful insects
Sedum
Similar growing conditions and creates attractive textural contrast while sharing minimal water requirements
Rosemary
Thrives in well-draining soil with infrequent watering, natural pest deterrent
Marigold
Repels nematodes and aphids while tolerating dry conditions between waterings
Aloe Vera
Identical care requirements and complementary growth habits create harmonious plantings
Ornamental Grasses
Provide structural contrast and wind protection while sharing drought tolerance
Sage
Mediterranean herb with similar water and soil requirements, natural insect repellent
Keep Apart
Impatiens
Requires frequent watering and high humidity which can cause root rot in succulents
Ferns
Need consistent moisture and shade, creating overly humid conditions detrimental to succulents
Hostas
Require regular watering and rich, moist soil that promotes fungal diseases in succulents
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Good disease resistance, sensitive to excess moisture
Common Pests
Aphids, mealybugs, scale insects
Diseases
Root rot, stem rot from overwatering or poor drainage