Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop', commonly known as Black Rose, is a striking succulent shrub that features large rosettes of deep purple to almost black leaves at the ends of its branches. It was discovered in a nursery in Leiden, Netherlands. With its dark foliage, it creates a bold architectural contrast in gardens and containers, especially when adorned with large conical clusters of bright yellow flowers in winter.
Taxonomy of Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'
Scientific Name
Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'
Synonym(s)
Aeonium arboreum 'Schwarzkopf', Aeonium arboreum 'Blackhead', Aeonium 'Zwartkop'
Common Name(s)
Black Aeonium, Black Beauty, Black Head, Black Rose, Black Tree Aeonium
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aeonium
Etymology
The generic name "Aeonium" (pronounced "ee-OH-nee-um") means "long-lasting" and refers to the enduring, perennial nature of the plants in this genus.
The specific epithet "arboreum" (pronounced "ar-BOR-ee-um") means "tree-like" and refers to the growth habit of this species.
The cultivar epithet 'Zwartkop' means "black head" in Dutch. This cultivar is also known by its German cultivar epithet 'Schwarzkopf', which means the same.
Forms and Hybrids of Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'
- Aeonium 'Blushing Beauty'
- Aeonium 'Cyclops'
- Aeonium 'Firecracker'
- Aeonium 'Garnet'
- Aeonium 'Jack Catlin'
- Aeonium 'Plum Purdy'
- Aeonium 'Short Black'
- Aeonium simsii × arboreum 'Zwartkop'
- Aeonium 'Velour'
- Aeonium 'Zwartkin'
Origin of Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'
Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop' is a cultivar of Aeonium arboreum. Although the exact origin of this cultivar is unknown, it was first discovered in a nursery in Leiden, the Netherlands. It was named and described by B. K. Boom in the Dutch Cactus Society journal, Succulenta, in 1959.
Description of Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'
Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop', also known as Aeonium 'Zwartkop', is a beautiful succulent shrub with long, bare branches ending in large, terminal rosettes of very dark purple, almost black leaves. It can grow up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall, while the rosettes can reach a diameter of 8 inches (20 cm).
In spring, the yellow, star-shaped flowers appear in large conical clusters on stalks that rise from the center of rosettes on mature plants. After blooming, the branches bearing flowers die back to a stem or the ground.
How to Grow and Care for Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'
Light: Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop' thrives in full sun to partial shade. However, during the summer months, especially in the hotter afternoon hours, it may benefit from light shade. If growing indoors, ensure the plant receives plenty of bright, indirect light to prevent it from becoming leggy and stretched.
Soil: Unlike most succulents, this plant requires sandy loam or regular potting soil amended with perlite. Avoid using pre-made soil mixes designed for succulents, as they typically provide less moisture than this plant needs.
Temperature: Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop' does not like hot or dry weather, so it may go dormant in summer. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 25°F to 50°F (-3.9°C to 10°C).
Watering: Water the plant thoroughly in the spring and fall, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During the winter, reduce watering. Although this plant requires more water than most succulents, excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Stop watering during summer dormancy, except in arid conditions.
Fertilizing: During the growing season, apply a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength to stimulate growth and enhance the plant's appearance.
Repotting: If you're growing Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop' in a container, repot it every 2 to 3 years in the spring. Always choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot.
Propagation: This plant is easy to propagate by stem cuttings. Take cuttings during the growing season and allow the cut ends to dry for several days before planting.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aeonium.
Toxicity of Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'
Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop' is considered non-toxic, making it safe for children and pets to grow around.
Photo Gallery
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Aeonium.
- Explore all plants within the family Crassulaceae.