Aichryson laxum flowers

Pretty blooms. Do you have a photo of the full plant by any chance?

Great banner Stefan!

You certainly introduce us to new, beautiful plants via the banner. Always looking forward to more.

pod said:Pretty blooms. Do you have a photo of the full plant by any chance?

Nope! I used to have one of these, didnt get to bloom. Turned all bonsai like. I didnt know there were so few photos on the db here.
But no photo this time.

That's unfortunate. What little I saw of the foliage looked interesting. Is it succulent?

What an interesting plant & excellent banner, Stefan.

I know I've seen it...maybe even have it.
But until you created this excellent banner, didn't know it's name or appreciate it's beauty.
Would make a nice Christmas present.

Aka 'Tree of Love'

More photos

Thank you Cal for those links. What a cool plant. I had a hint that it was succulent foliage from the banner photo. The foliage is beautiful!

The information offered in the link was most interesting and entertaining. Odd though, at one point they said

These plants are annual or biennial and they produce volunteer seedlings around themselves after they flower, allowing new plants to grow even if the old one dies.

Then

After flowering, the 'Tree of Love' plants die unless the inflorescence is removed.

I loved the romance of the Tree of Love aka Aichryson Laxum plant.

They almost made me think I needed to go shopping for this lovely plant when they said it loved heat and humidity. I thought, That's me! Till I read

'Tree of Love' plants are particularly vulnerable to spider mites, powdery mealybugs, and nematodes.

They talked me right out of it!

But it still is a lovely succulent. Thank you Stefan and thank you Cal!

...particularly vulnerable to spider mites, powdery mealybugs, and nematodes

Not a problem.....just spritz the plant occasionally with water for the mites, as they like it dry.

And when I find mealy bugs, I add a little detergent to break down the surface tension,
and smother them. Also insecticidal soap should work.

If nematodes are the problem, nuke the soil in the microwave before planting, or use
a commercial mix.

Maybe someone else has experience & tips for these pests.

But worth it, imho.

Thank you. I have bookmarked your post. Now to find one...

Unless I find it first!

Hope you are able! Then you can direct me to the source.

Very cool slice, Stefan. I was proud of myself when I could guess the tribe (Aeonieae) based on just a couple of flowers.

I had an Aichryson back in the day, and propagated it, but then the mother plant went to seed and that was the end of that. They are indeed lovely miniatures. The flowers are outsized compared to the leaves. Word to the wise: these are not long lived plants, more like something to appreciate while it lasts.

Neat plant and banner, Stefan. Interesting conversation and additional info, too. Thanks everyone!