Aeonium 'Velour'

Aeonium 'Velour' is a striking branching succulent prized for its velvety foliage and dramatic seasonal colour. Its rosettes can shift from fresh green and burgundy during active growth to rich mauve, purple and near-black tones as light levels and seasonal conditions change.

Origin & Related Cultivars

'Velour' was created by American hybridiser Jack Catlin from a cross between Aeonium canariense and Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'. The influence of A. canariense can be seen in the fine hairs on the foliage, which give younger leaves their characteristic soft, velvety texture.

Another seedling selected from the same cross became Aeonium 'Blushing Beauty'. Although the two can look surprisingly similar at certain times of year, 'Velour' generally develops considerably darker purple colouring, while 'Blushing Beauty' tends to remain greener.

'Velour' also became important in later Aeonium breeding. It was used as one parent of the spectacular variegated Aeonium 'Mardi Gras', giving collectors an interesting opportunity to grow both parent and descendant.

Colour & Growth Habit

'Velour' develops a well-branched, shrubby habit rather than simply producing long bare stems topped by rosettes. Mature plants can become impressive specimens, with numerous rosettes creating a broad architectural canopy.

Colour changes considerably through the year. Cooler-season growth can be predominantly green through the centre with darker outer foliage, while stronger light and seasonal stress can intensify burgundy, chocolate, mauve and deep purple tones. This natural transformation is one of the cultivar's most appealing characteristics.

Growing Conditions

Grow 'Velour' in a bright position with excellent drainage. Good light encourages compact growth and stronger colour, although some protection from intense Australian summer afternoon sun can be beneficial, particularly for plants that have not been gradually acclimatised.

Aeoniums are most actively growing during the cooler months and may slow considerably during hot summer weather. Water according to the plant's growth and conditions, allowing the growing medium to drain freely and avoiding prolonged waterlogging.

Garden & Container Use

With its dark foliage, branching structure and substantial rosettes, 'Velour' makes an excellent feature plant in a large container or succulent garden. Its deep purple tones provide particularly effective contrast with green, silver, yellow and variegated succulents.

Aeonium 'Velour' 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.