Description: Aeonium simsii is a very small species, rarely growing higher than 10 cm tall. Plants will offset freely producing lateral side shoots, eventually forming small clumps of tiny rosettes. Plants have long tapered leaves which are covered in very thin hair like structures along the leaf margins, which are a distinguishing characteristic of this species. You will also notice small green and red stipes on the upper and lower leaf surfaces. These are known as idioblast and are thought to be specialised plant cells used for water storage. Over summer the plants may develop shades of red and bronze.
Plant Care: Plants prefer a semi shaded environment, particularly during summer. Due to its small size it is probable best grown in a decorative pot unless a suitable garden situation can be provided. In nature the low growing side shoots will often re -root into the ground, forming very large colonies of hundred of plants. Provide good drainage and avoid overwatering in the summer when the plants are dormant.
Origins & Distribution: Canary Islands (Gran Canaria)
Comments: There is a commonly sold hybrid Aeonium x hybridum (Aeonium simsii x Aeonium spathulatum) which is often confused with Aeonium simsii. The main differences between the two are the size of the plants, and the hair like structures (cilia) on the leaf margins. The hybrid grows a lot taller and has very distinct rounded bead shaped hairs on the leaf margins, compared to A. simsii which is small and low growing, with very long and thin hair like structure. (Please see photo's)
Please view our blog to compare the differences between the two: Aeonium x hybridum
Please read carefully before purchasing:
- Plants for sale are displayed in 70mm pots. You will receive the same or similar plant as in this photo. Please use this as a guide to the size of the plants available for purchase.
- Please refer to the postage and handling guide for information on how orders are posted, weekly cut off times and postage costs.