Flat-topped aeonium facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Flat-topped aeonium |
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| Scientific classification | |
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Aeonium
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| Species: |
tabuliforme
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Aeonium tabuliforme, also known as the flat-topped aeonium or saucer plant, is a unique plant. It is a type of succulent plant, which means it has thick, fleshy parts that store water. This plant belongs to the Crassulaceae family.
It grows naturally only on Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands. This plant is quite short, usually about 5 cm tall. But its flat shape can spread out to 45 cm wide! It likes to grow on moist, north-facing cliffs and ledges near the coast.
Contents
What is the Flat-Topped Aeonium?
This plant gets its name, tabuliforme, from a Latin word meaning "table shaped." This describes its very flat, round shape. It has many fleshy, bright green leaves that grow in a flat circle, like a rosette. These rosettes grow on short stems, often on vertical rock surfaces.
Life Cycle and Flowers
The flat-topped aeonium is a short-lived plant. It usually lives for 3 to 4 years. After it flowers, the plant dies.
When it's ready to flower, it sends up a tall stalk. This stalk can grow 40 to 60 cm high! It is covered with many small, yellow flowers.
Growing and Caring for the Plant
People sometimes grow this plant in gardens, especially in places with cooler weather. It needs soil that drains water very well. This helps prevent its roots from getting too wet.
The leaves look their best when the plant gets lots of sunshine. This plant is usually healthy and doesn't get many diseases. However, tiny insects like aphids and mealybugs can sometimes bother it.
A special type of this plant, called 'Variegata', has darker green leaves. These leaves also have pretty white edges.
See also
In Spanish: Aeonium tabulaeforme para niños
Images for kids
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Three specimens, two with flower spikes
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Flowers
