About Aeonium 'White Wedding Dress'
Born from the sun-washed cliffs of the Canary Islands, 'White Wedding Dress' is a breathtaking variegated cultivar that elevates the classic Aeonium into pure artistry. Its sculptural form and delicate hues evoke the elegance of bridal lace, making it a living centerpiece for any plant collection. It forms striking, near-flat rosettes (6–10" wide) on sturdy, branching stems that mature into a graceful shrub-like form. Thick, spoon-shaped leaves boast creamy ivory centers dramatically edged in emerald green, with fine pink-rose margins emerging in cool weather. Each rosette resembles a layered floral bouquet. Mature rosettes send up conical clusters of tiny, star-shaped pale yellow flowers in late winter/spring. After blooming, that rosette completes its lifecycle, but lateral branches continue growing.
How to care for Aeonium 'White Wedding Dress'
Light: Aeonium 'White Wedding Dress' thrives in bright, filtered sunlight or gentle morning rays. Intense afternoon sun may scorch its creamy variegation, while too little light causes leggy growth. A sheltered east-facing patio or bright indoor spot near a window is perfect.
Watering: During active growth (fall to spring), water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry, ensuring deep drainage. In summer dormancy (when rosettes tighten), water sparingly—just enough to prevent root desiccation. Always avoid water pooling in the leaf crowns.
Temperature & Seasonal Response: Ideal Range: 50–75°F (10–24°C). Below 50°F (10°C), pink margins intensify dramatically. It tolerates brief frosts down to 25°F (–4°C) if kept bone-dry but benefits from winter protection. Above 85°F (30°C), rosettes close tightly and growth pauses. Provide shade and airflow during heatwaves.
Soil & Potting: Plant in a wide, stable pot (terracotta ideal) with drainage holes. Use gritty soil (50% cactus mix + 50% pumice/perlite) to support shallow roots. Repot every 2–3 years in autumn.
Fertilizing: Feed monthly in autumn and spring with diluted low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 2-4-4). Avoid summer feeding during dormancy. Excess nitrogen dulls variegation.
Pest Prevention: Excellent airflow deters mealybugs and aphids. Inspect stem joints regularly; treat infestations with neem oil. Avoid high humidity to prevent rot.
Propagation: Stem cuttings root most reliably. In autumn, cut a branch with a rosette, let it callous for 3–5 days, then plant in dry gritty mix. Seeds are rarely viable for cultivars.
More information
Primary color: Creamy Ivory (leaf centers)
Secondary color: Emerald Green (leaf edges with pink margins)
Bloom color: Pale Yellow
Product format: Rooted in 2" nursery pot
Cold hardiness: Zones 9b–11 (25°F / –4°C to 40°F / 4°C)
Suitability: Sheltered patios, bright conservatories, container gardens (frost-free), succulent displays
Propagation: Stem cuttings
Special characteristics:
Dramatic variegation: High-contrast "lace" pattern intensifies in cool seasons.
Sculptural growth: Mature plants form branching "tree" structures.
Seasonal metamorphosis: Rosettes close in summer heat, flatten in cool growth periods.
Rarity: Prized among collectors for its bridal elegance.