Troubleshooting
Aeonium Velour problems — and how to fix them
Aeonium Velour (Aeonium arboreum 'Velour') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Stretched, leggy rosettes
Etiolation from insufficient light. Leaves space out and stems elongate toward the window. Move to brighter light and rotate the pot regularly to keep rosettes flat and compact.
Rosettes closing up in summer
Normal summer dormancy, not a problem. The plant pulls its leaves inward to conserve water during heat. Reduce watering and resist the urge to overwater the apparently 'wilting' rosette.
Soft, blackened stem or rosette base
Root or stem rot from overwatering or poorly draining soil. Cut away affected tissue, let healthy stem callus, and replant in dry gritty mix; water sparingly until rooted.
Faded or green leaf edges
Loss of the dark velvety colour usually means too little light or excess nitrogen. Increase light exposure and stop high-nitrogen feeding to restore the deep pigmentation.
Prevent aeonium velour problems before they start
Most aeonium velour issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for aeonium velour in general rather than its problems? Read the full aeonium velour care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Aeonium Velour problems — FAQ
Why is my aeonium velour stretched, leggy rosettes?
Etiolation from insufficient light. Leaves space out and stems elongate toward the window. Move to brighter light and rotate the pot regularly to keep rosettes flat and compact.
Why is my aeonium velour rosettes closing up in summer?
Normal summer dormancy, not a problem. The plant pulls its leaves inward to conserve water during heat. Reduce watering and resist the urge to overwater the apparently 'wilting' rosette.
Why is my aeonium velour soft, blackened stem or rosette base?
Root or stem rot from overwatering or poorly draining soil. Cut away affected tissue, let healthy stem callus, and replant in dry gritty mix; water sparingly until rooted.
Why is my aeonium velour faded or green leaf edges?
Loss of the dark velvety colour usually means too little light or excess nitrogen. Increase light exposure and stop high-nitrogen feeding to restore the deep pigmentation.