Aeonium urbicum (Saucer Plant)

Aeonium urbicum, commonly known as the “Saucer Plant,” or “Salad Bowl,” is an eye-catching succulent native to the Canary Islands. This beautiful plant boasts fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves that form rosettes and can display a pinkish hue under direct sunlight. In this post, I’ll guide you through caring for, propagating, and maintaining a healthy Aeonium urbicum.

How to Care for Aeonium urbicum

Watering Aeonium urbicum

Aeonium urbicum requires moderate watering, and it’s crucial to avoid over-watering, as this may cause root rot. Water your plant thoroughly and wait until the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry before watering again. Keep in mind that during the hotter months, the plant may need more frequent watering, while in winter, when it’s dormant, it will require less water.

Light

Aeonium urbicum “Salad Bowl” thrives in full sun to partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. If you’re growing it indoors, place the plant near a south or west-facing window for optimal light exposure. Too little light can cause the plant to become leggy and lose its compact growth habit.

Soil

Plant your Saucer plant in well-draining, sandy soil. A high-quality succulent or cactus mix works well, or you can create your own by combining equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand. Proper drainage is essential to prevent root rot and ensure a healthy plant.

Temperature

Urbicum can tolerate temperatures between 40-90°F (4-32°C). However, it’s not frost-tolerant, so if you live in an area with freezing temperatures, it’s best to grow your plant in a container and move it indoors during the winter months.

Summary

Care for Aeonium urbicum with moderate watering, 6 hours of sunlight, well-draining sandy soil, and temperatures between 40-90°F. Not frost-tolerant; move indoors in freezing conditions.

How to Propagate Aeonium urbicum

Cuttings

Propagating Aeonium urbicum is a straightforward process, and the easiest method is through stem cuttings. Remove a healthy, mature stem with a sharp, sterilized knife, and let the cutting dry for a few days to allow the wound to callous. Plant the cutting in well-draining, sandy soil, and keep it slightly moist until new roots develop. Ensure the cuttings receive bright, indirect light during the rooting process to prevent sunburn.

Offsets

Aeonium urbicum often produces offsets or “pups” around the base of the mother plant. To propagate using offsets, gently remove the pup from the mother plant with a clean, sharp knife, being careful not to damage the roots. Allow the offset to dry for a couple of days to form a callous, then plant it in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until the offset establishes a new root system.

Leaf Propagation

Although less common, Saucer plant can also be propagated from leaves. Gently twist off a healthy leaf from the mother plant, ensuring you remove the entire leaf without leaving any part attached to the stem. Allow the leaf to dry for a few days, then lay it on top of well-draining soil. Keep the soil slightly moist, and roots will eventually develop from the leaf’s base. Once the new plant starts to grow, you can transfer it to a pot of its own.

Fertilizing Your Aeonium urbicum

Aeonium urbicum doesn’t require frequent fertilization. Feed it with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength during the growing season, which typically spans spring to fall. Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant enters its dormant phase.

Common Pests and Diseases

Aeonium urbicum is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still fall prey to common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids. Regularly inspect your plant for signs of infestation, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed. To prevent fungal diseases, ensure your plant has proper air circulation and avoid over-watering.

Summary

Propagate Aeonium urbicum via stem cuttings, offsets, or leaf propagation. Fertilize sparingly during growing season. Monitor for pests and ensure proper air circulation and watering to prevent diseases.

Where to Buy

You can buy Aeonium urbicum at Mountain Crest Gardens