RedCrocus Aeonium 'Zwartkopf' Live Succulent – Black Rose Aeonium with Near-Black Rosettes, Drought-Tolerant, Container & Landscape Plant 10" Terracotta Pot
RedCrocus Aeonium 'Zwartkopf' Live Succulent – Black Rose Aeonium with Near-Black Rosettes, Drought-Tolerant, Container & Landscape Plant 10" Terracotta Pot
SKU:ber230a-redcrocus
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Succulent- Aeonium Zwartkopf
Sculptural, near-black rosettes on branching stems—bold color for containers and water-wise landscapes.
Description
Aeonium ‘Zwartkopf’ (often sold as ‘Zwartkop’ or ‘Schwarzkopf’) is a striking succulent prized for its glossy, dark burgundy-to-black rosettes perched on sculptural, branching stems. Color deepens with strong light and cool-season temperatures, creating dramatic contrast against silver or green companions. Unlike many succulents, Aeoniums are winter–spring growers and tend to slow or lightly dorm in the heat of summer, making them superb for Mediterranean and coastal climates and as standout container specimens.
Suggested Uses
Plant Details
Botanical Name
Succulent- Aeonium Zwartkopf
Common Name
Succulent- Aeonium
Size & Growth
Typically 2–3 ft tall and 18–24 in wide; rosettes 6–8 in across; branching habit forms small shrub-like clumps.
Hardiness Zones
USDA 9–11 (best in 10–11). Protect from hard frost; brief dips near 30°F may be tolerated if dry.
Foliage Type
Evergreen succulent rosettes; spoon-shaped leaves turn deep burgundy to near-black in strong light, greener in shade.
Bloom Time
Late winter to spring; tall conical clusters of starry yellow flowers. Note: the blooming rosette is monocarpic and will die after flowering, but offsets continue the plant.
Growth Rate
Moderate during cool seasons; slows or lightly dorms in peak summer heat.
Light Requirements
Full sun to very bright light; 4–6+ hours of direct sun for best dark coloration. Provide afternoon shade in very hot climates.
Attracts Pollinators
Yes—spring blooms attract bees and other beneficial pollinators.
Indoor Friendly
Yes, with very bright light (south or west window) or supplemental grow lights; reduce watering indoors.
Container Friendly
Excellent—thrives in pots with sharp drainage; easy to reposition for seasonal light and protection.
Deer Resistant
Generally deer resistant; occasional tasting may occur where pressure is high.
Pet Warning
Considered non-toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion of any plant may cause mild stomach upset—discourage chewing.
Fragrant
Not noted for fragrance; grown for foliage color and form.
Cut Flower
Rosettes (with or without roots) are popular in arrangements and bouquets; last for weeks with minimal water.
Grows Well With
Echeveria, Sedum, Senecio/Curio, Aloe, Agave (compact forms), Kalanchoe, Graptopetalum, Lavender, Santolina, Blue Fescue.
Care Tips
Planting Instructions
Plant at the same depth as in the nursery pot; do not bury rosette. Choose a container with drainage; acclimate gradually to full sun over 7–10 days to prevent sunscald.
Soil Moisture
Water thoroughly, then allow 2/3 of the mix to dry. More frequent in cool season (active growth), very sparing in hot summer dormancy. Never leave standing in water.
Soil Type
Sharp-draining mix: cactus/succulent blend amended with 30–50% pumice, perlite, or coarse grit. pH near neutral is ideal.
Humidity
Prefers low humidity and good air circulation; avoid prolonged damp, cool conditions to prevent rot.
Pruning Instructions
Remove spent flower stalks and withered rosettes at the base. Tip-prune lightly to shape or to encourage branching; stem cuttings root readily.
Winter Care
Protect from frost; move containers indoors or under cover when temperatures approach 35–40°F. Provide bright light and water sparingly but don’t let the mix stay bone-dry for extended periods in active growth.
Planting Depth
Set the root crown level with the soil surface; in containers, keep the top of the root ball about 1/2 in below the rim for clean watering.
Fertilization
Light feeder—apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer at 1/4 strength once in early spring; avoid fertilizing during summer dormancy.
Special Care
Rotate pots monthly for even color and form. Watch for mealybugs and aphids; treat promptly with isopropyl swabs or insecticidal soap. Avoid overwatering in heat; provide afternoon shade in very hot regions.
Note: Aeoniums grow primarily in the cool season and may pause growth or partially close rosettes during hot, dry summer periods—this is normal.
