The Aeonium Kiwi plant, also known as Aeonium haworthii ‘Kiwi’ is a very beautiful and colorful succulent that makes home into the hearts of plant lovers around the globe. It comes adorned with rosettes that have green, yellow and red-finished leaves, this plant is one of the most loved indoor and outdoor plants.
If you are an expert gardener or a novice you need to learn how to care for Kiwi so that you can appreciate its beauty as well as make sure it flourishes in your collection. This all-inclusive article will cover everything there is to know about caring for Kiwi, including sunlight and water requirements, growing conditions, and where to buy one.
Understanding Aeonium Kiwi
What Is Aeonium Kiwi?
Ah yes, Aeonium Kiwi, a succulent in nature, and in appearance, it can only be referred to as having a burst of greenness in the middle and yellow in the peripheral parts. This Crassulaceae family member specifically belongs to the sulfur-monopowered subgenus and has colourful succulent foliage that formsekce bulbos,3 rosettes. Distributed throughout the pleasure of the Canary islands and bred probably for the decorative purposes and ease of growing plants.
Aeonium Kiwi Common Name
The plant is commonly referred to as either Aeonium ‘Kiwi’ or Costa Aeonium Kiwi Variegated, owing. It has distinctive and colorful foliage which is the common name given to it. The bright colors owe their origin in the yellow and green gradient colors common on the fruit and this is how the name came up.
Light Requirements for Costa Aeonium
Does Aeonium Like Full Sun or Shade?
Though Costa Aeonium makes out well under bright light but in an indirect shade. It can manage a few hours under sun especially in early or late afternoons. Yet too much sun, sunburns such leaves due to sun exposure on zenith angles. As for house plants, the best position would be where the plants are next to the window frames facing either the south or east direction.
How Light Affects Coloration
Costa Aeonium is best active in very bright light for proper development of the colors it has. The cherry red borders are seen to be more profound and the gold and green hues more intense. When there isn’t enough illumination, on the other hand, discoloration occurs and the plant elongates in a light hungry way.
Watering Your Costa Aeonium
How Often to Water
Costa aeonium has specific watering requirements in each of the seasons. It is active during the spring and fall hence requires water on more intervals. The top inch of the soil must be touched to know when to water the plant completely. Make sure excess water is allowed to drain out. Prevent the plant from being submerged in water as that causes the roots to rot.
Aeonium ‘Kiwi’ Watering During Dormancy
Container grown Costa Aeonium is likely to be a summer growing variety, where water is less during the summer months and almost nil in August. During this time, water supply is to a minimum to avoid extending the period of drought and causing root rots. Soil is to be allowed to become dry totally before rehydrating at this stage.
Soil and Potting for Aeonium Kiwi
Best Soil Mix
The best soil for Costa Aeonium is well-draining soil. A commercial cactus or succulent potting mixture is the most suitable as it provides the required amount of drainage and moisture retention. Alternatively, you can mix regular potting soil with perlite or pumice to improve aeration and prepare your own mixture.
Choosing the Right Pot
The kind of pot that you use is also of significant importance in controlling the moisture. It is important that the pot has drainage holes to allow the excess water to drain off after it is watered. Also, terracotta pots are advantageous; this is because they are porous and act to balance the moisture content in the soil.
Temperature and Humidity Needs
Ideal Temperature Range
Costa Aeonium does well in cooler temperatures and prefers temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) during the day and cooler temperatures at night. The plant can withstand temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C) but is not frost resistant and must be shielded from freeze conditions.
Humidity Levels
Kiwi does accomplish well under low to moderate humidity. High humidity leads to fungal problems; it is therefore advisable to keep the plant from areas of excessive humidity as well.
Fertilizing Costa Aeonium
When and How to Fertilize
Although fertilizing your Aeonium Kiwi is not a must, it can encourage the healthiest growth and the flamboyant tints that make the plant attractive. If you decide to fertilize, then a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at a half strength is recommended. This should be done once every 4 to 6 weeks during the period of active growth (spring and fall) and this should not be done during dormancy.
Potential Issues with Over-Fertilization
The plant can grow leggy and forfeit that compactness that is more desirable because of over fertilization. It should be clearly understood that the guidelines prescribed should be strictly adhered to and that top dressing should be done when the plants are dormant.
Propagation Techniques
Propagation Methods
It is fun to try out ‘propagation’ since this will always enlarge the size of your collection of Costa Aeonium. The two most popular these days are also stem cuttings and offsets (pups). For stem cuttings propagation, you should take a fresh rosette and cut the stem below it. After allowing the stem to ensure that the callus forms thoroughly, the cutting can then be placed in the medium which is well draining.
Timing and Care for New Plants
For maximum possible results, the Costa Aeonium species adopts an appropriate time to be propagated. Once settled, the plant requires minimal watering since the roots are not very developed and the cuttings should be set in a bright area that has indirect sunlight. The mother plant can be used and after there are slight movements, the offsets are planted by the same care protocol.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best care, Costa Aeonium may occasionally encounter issues that require attention. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
Yellowing or Drooping Leaves
Observe the leaves; if they are yellowing or wilting, this suggests overwatering. This succulent does prefer a period of dormancy in between the watering so be sure the soil isn’t soaking wet. Prune the affected leaves and change your watering patterns. At times, the plant could even lose the lower leaves which are natural in the blooming cycle but specifically more at the time of quiescence.
Leggy Growth
A leggy growth or stretched growth is a sign of inadequate lighting where the plant stretches and becomes thin and fragile. In this case, transfer your Costa Aeonium to a brighter area where it can get indirect sun. In a case where it is being grown indoors, position the pot close to a window whose perspective is southwards so that it can possibly get adequate light. However, where the leggy nature persists, you might want to consider cutting the plant back so that it grows in a more compact fashion.
Pest Infestations
On rare occasions, the Costa Aeonium might come under attack by some pests such as mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites. If you see such tiny insects or any webbing on your plant, it is advisable to respond immediately. Minor infestations can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil where you follow the instructions given on the product. In cases of infestation that is too severe, it may be necessary to remove the plant from the vicinity and apply different treatments that may be harsher.
Rotting Stems or Roots
Root or stem rot is mostly the consequence of underwatering or ineffective drainage. It is obvious that if the stems are turning mushy or that the plant wilts despite enough watering, the roots must be examined. Cut off the affected portions and move the Costa Aeonium to a new soil that is dry and well draining. Reinstate your irrigation to optimal volume and spacing.
Costa Aeonium Flowering
When and How Kiwi Flowers
Flowers on Aeonium Kiwi do usually appear but are seen sometimes in the months between the end of winter and early spring. A stalk is sent from the center of the rosette becoming well raised, with a few small yellow star shaped flowers. Definitely, this is a cause for disapointment to many and not all such plants would show much in flowering season annually.
Post-Flowering Care
Withering of the flowering rosette occurs soon after the rosette has had its flowers. But usually, there are new offsets that the plant will produce at the base which will continue growing. These new rosettes need attention as well to enhance the growth of your Costa Aeonium.
Purchasing Costa Aeonium
Aeonium Kiwi for Sale
Therefore, Kiwi plant can practically be found in every garden center or nursery as well as most online plant stores. Depending on the kind and size of the plant the prices may fluctuate. Smaller plants cost in the range of $10 to $20, while much bigger and more grown plants are more than $20 and even go up to $50 and even more.
Choosing a Healthy Plant
In the case of purchasing Costa Aeonium, it is advisable to buy an undamaged and healthy plant with attractive color and no history of infestation by insects or disease. In case of online purchases, make sure to engage a dealer with good reviews who will send you a good quality plant.
Seasonal Care Tips for Costa Aeonium
The care instructions for Costa Aeonium may be concerned in a different way for each season. This is because there are specific characteristics of the plant that alter with the weather and this will enable you design a practical model for keeping the plant in good shape all year round.
Spring and Fall Care
Whenever spring and fall arrive Costa Aeonium is at a period of active growth within the year. It is the right time to water the plant frequently, apply fertilizer, and even check on the plant if repotting is deemed necessary. When growing the plant, provide ample bright, indirect light in order to boost the intensity of color and encourage growth. People who want more plants may use this time to propagate as well.
Summer Dormancy
The period when Costa Aeonium is likely to remain inactive will be enjoyed in the summer. This is more common in warmer areas. Do this until the rainy season sets in, reducing the amount of moisture supplied to the plant, and positioning it in cooler, shaded areas. You should expect some plants to stagnate and some actually stop growing altogether which is totally fine. While the plant is in a dormant state, do not be tempted into fertilizing it. The plant is not going to use any nutrients so there is no point of adding more.
Winter Care
In the event you reside in an area where winters are very intense, care should be taken to avoid frost on your Costa Aeonium. In situations where the plant is grown outdoors, you may want to move it inside the house or to a place where the temperature does not drop below zero. When kept as houseplants, they can be put in a well-lit place but not sufficiently exposed to draughts or cold courtyard windows. In winter, the water supply to the plants should be restricted because very little growth is expected.
Styling and Displaying Aeonium Kiwi
Beyond its care, Aeonium Kiwi can be a stunning addition to various home décor styles. Here are some creative ideas for displaying your Costa Aeonium:
Indoor Displays
Costa Aeonium appears stunning in artistic ornamental containers placed onto the window sills, coffee tables or on plant stands. When choosing decor for the plant, keep in mind that it should not be clashing. Thus whichever pot you decide, terracotta or simply white ceramic pot would be good because they bring out more the brilliant hues of the leaves. Displaying Costa Aeonium together with the other succulents in dish garden can also serve as nice indoor decoration.
Outdoor Arrangements
For outdoor use, Costa Aeonium also serves its purpose in rock gardens, succulent beds or in container arrangements. Its color doesn’t blend or match the rest green plants which make it an interesting plant beside other plants. Grow it with other xeric perennials like aloes, agaves and such to enjoy the beauty of the garden without putting in much maintenance efforts.
FAQs About Aeonium Care
These are the most common questions that people ask when it comes to Aeonium care, with some quick answers out, in order to familiarise the reader with the relevant aspects concerning the maintenance of this succulent plant.
How do you care for Kiwi Aeonium?
Kiwi Aeonium care includes adequate exposure to the sunlight though indirect, well draining soils, and moderate watering. Water only when the first top soil feels dry, water less heavily during the dormancy, and shield the plant from frost during the cold months. Proper drainage is essential to avoid root rot, and feeding plants is necessary but should be done once in a while during the active growth.
How tall do Kiwi Aeoniums get?
The height for Kiwi Aeoniums is approximately between 12-18 inches (30–45 cm). They are somewhat compact in disposition and hence ideal for container gardening, as well as for confined garden spaces. But they can also spread out in due time and form a bushy colorful rosette.
Does Aeonium like full sun or shade?
Light shade or bright, indirect sun with some protection is the conditions under which Costa Aeonium grows best – some shallow shade is tolerated as well. Although some morning sunlight is tolerable, excessive afternoon sun will burn the leaves. If inside, it should be placed close to a window that has good overhead light, but no direct sunlight.
Is Costa Aeonium hardy?
Keep your Costa Aeonium in a warm location as it is not hardy to frost and does not tolerate temperatures below 40°F (4°C) C. For colder regions, it is preferable to plant it in pots and shift them indoors during winter or to some protected area outside.
Does Aeonium grow fast?
Costa Aeonium is of Intermediate growth rate. The active growth flushes in spring and fall will be fast growing while during the summer periods of dormancy, there will be slow growth. Provided it receives good care, one will witness a steady growth performance but the plant is not a fast growing succulent.
Would you like to read: Aeonium Haworthii Complete Indoor Care Guide
Final Thoughts
Caring for Aeonium Kiwi is pleasurable bringing colors and newness to your collection of plants. This succulent is simple to take care of and very beautiful making it ideal for novice and expert gardeners alike. You can also appreciate your Costa Aeonium for many years if you stick to the principles mentioned in this article.
Regardless of whether it’s grown indoors or outdoors, in a garden or in pots, Costa Aeonium is a beautiful and multipurpose plant that easily stands out. Based on weather conditions, alter your care regimen, be on the lookout for occurrences of stress or pests, and dont forget to have fun taking care of this wonderful and interesting succulent.