Crassulaceae
Aeonium haworthii: Pinwheel Aeonium Care Guide
Aeonium haworthii
Give this succulent bright light, water only when the soil is fully dry, and plant it in a fast-draining cactus mix. It thrives outdoors in mild, frost-free climates and rests during the hottest summer weeks.
Every 14 days
Bright indirect
4° - 29°C
20% - 40%
Categories
What is Pinwheel Aeonium?
Pinwheel Aeonium (Aeonium haworthii) is a easy-care plant from the Crassulaceae family. Aeonium haworthii is a branching succulent shrub native to the Canary Islands, prized for its rosettes of blue-green leaves edged in red, arranged like the blades of a pinwheel. It grows into a low, multi-stemmed shrub and produces star-shaped white to pale yellow flowers in spring.
Pinwheel Aeonium grows up to 60cm, spread of 60cm, watering every 14 days, 4°C â 29°C, 20â40% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Pinwheel Aeonium tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Pinwheel Aeonium is safe to keep around pets. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 28 days.
How to Care for Pinwheel Aeonium?
TLDR: Pinwheel Aeonium needs Bright indirect, watering every 14 days, and temperatures between 4-29°C with 20-40% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Pinwheel Aeonium?
Water deeply, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Reduce watering further in winter dormancy - overwatering causes root rot.
How Much Light Does Pinwheel Aeonium Need?
Provide bright morning sun with light afternoon shade in hot climates; more light intensifies the red leaf edges, but harsh midday sun can scorch the rosettes.
What Is the Best Soil for Pinwheel Aeonium?
Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix amended with perlite or pumice to prevent soggy roots.
What Pot Should You Use for Pinwheel Aeonium?
Terracotta pot with drainage holes
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 60 days
Rotate
Every 14 days
What Is Pinwheel Aeonium and Where Does It Come From?
Aeonium haworthii is a branching succulent shrub native to the Canary Islands, prized for its rosettes of blue-green leaves edged in red, arranged like the blades of a pinwheel. It grows into a low, multi-stemmed shrub and produces star-shaped white to pale yellow flowers in spring.
How to Propagate Pinwheel Aeonium?
Stem cutting
Take cuttings in spring or fall when the plant is actively growing; cuttings taken during summer dormancy often fail to root.
- 1 Cut a 7-15 cm stem tip with a rosette using clean, sharp scissors.
- 2 Let the cut end callus over in a dry, shaded spot for 2-5 days.
- 3 Remove the lowest leaves and insert the calloused end into a fast-draining succulent mix.
- 4 Keep in bright indirect light and water lightly once new growth appears, in about 3-4 weeks.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Pinwheel Aeonium Grow?
TLDR: Pinwheel Aeonium can reach up to 60cm tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
60cm
Spread
60cm
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Pinwheel Aeonium?
TLDR: Pinwheel Aeonium is susceptible to 5 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, waxy, cottony material. They are common pests of houseplants and outdoor plants in mild climates. These sap-sucking insects feed on plant tissue, causing damage, stunted growth, and can lead to plant death if left untreated. They produce sticky honeydew which attracts sooty mold.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) that feed by sucking nutrient-rich sap from plants. They reproduce rapidly and can quickly weaken plants, causing distorted growth and transmitting plant viruses. Aphids come in various colors including green, black, red, yellow, brown, and gray. They secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold growth.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids (less than 1/20 inch long) related to spiders and ticks that feed on plant sap. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can cause significant damage to ornamental and vegetable plants. During severe infestations, crop losses can reach 14% or higher as these pests disrupt vital plant processes including photosynthesis, carbon dioxide absorption, and transpiration.
Meaning & Symbolism
The name Aeonium comes from the Greek word for "ageless," making this plant a symbol of longevity and enduring beauty.
Fun Facts
The genus name Aeonium comes from the Greek word for "ageless," referencing the evergreen rosettes of the plant.
Its rosettes are arranged like the blades of a pinwheel, giving rise to the common name Pinwheel Aeonium.
Unlike many succulents, Aeonium haworthii grows actively in cool seasons and rests during hot summer weather.
The popular 'Kiwi' cultivar shows green, cream, and pink variegation on the same rosette.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aeonium haworthii toxic to cats and dogs?
How often should I water Aeonium haworthii?
Why are the leaf edges turning red?
Why does my Aeonium haworthii look leggy in summer?
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | â |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | â |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | â |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | â |