Aeonium 'Short Black'
Aeonium 'Short Black' presents a mesmerizing display of deep burgundy to nearly black rosettes, perched atop sturdy, branching stems. As a compact form—reaching around 60 cm in both height and width—it offers a refined silhouette that’s both architectural and elegant.
This cultivar likely originated as a mutation of Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop' (the dramatic Black Rose), and may also be known internationally as Aeonium ‘Zwartkin’—a hybrid thought to combine A. tabuliforme with A. 'Zwartkop', bred by Jack Catlin in the U.S.
In winter and cooler growth periods, the foliage tends toward greenish tones before deepening into rich, dark shades through spring and summer—especially when exposed to strong sunlight. This seasonal color shift makes Aeonium 'Short Black' particularly effective as a focal point or contrast plant in container arrangements, succulent collections, rockeries, or borders.
As a succulent subshrub of the Crassulaceae family, it features fleshy, petal-like rosettes and follows the genus’s monocarpic habit—each rosette may eventually bloom with yellow, star-shaped flowers before dying, though offsets will continue the plant’s growth over seasons.
For care, plant in a free-draining, lightly gritty mix and situate where light ranges from full sun to partial shade to bring out the richest tones. Water sparingly—moderating moisture especially during cooler months to avoid root rot—and check regularly for mealybugs as temperatures warm.
Its compact size, dynamic colour changes, and architectural rosettes make Aeonium 'Short Black' a distinctive and rewarding choice for gardeners seeking structure and depth in their planting schemes.
Aeonium 'Short Black' plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.
All plants are shipped bare rooted unless otherwise stated. Orders are carefully packed and shipped via Express Post to NSW, VIC, QLD, SA and ACT. Orders are dispatched according to our weekly shipping schedule, available on our Shipping page, with tracking provided once your order has been lodged with Australia Post.
Succulents naturally change in colour, size and form throughout the year. Many develop richer colours and more compact growth during periods of seasonal stress, particularly through cooler months and brighter conditions, while warmer or lower-light conditions may produce greener, softer growth.
The plant you receive may therefore vary from the product images depending on the season, its stage of growth and current growing conditions. These natural variations are part of the character of living plants and do not affect their quality or health.
Pickup is available in Seville, Yarra Valley VIC by appointment. Order online as normal and any shipping charge will be automatically refunded after collection, unless you would prefer to receive an additional plant of similar value instead.
Important Plant Information
All plants are shipped bare rooted unless otherwise stated. This helps reduce shipping costs, improves plant safety during transit and allows plants to travel more reliably.
Plants are carefully packed for Express Post and may vary naturally in colour, size and form according to season, growth stage and growing conditions.
Please check the product description and images for information specific to the plant you are purchasing.
If you have any questions about your plant or order, please reach out to us. We’re always happy to help.