Semponium Diamond

x Semponium 'Diamond' is the result of a unique cross-breeding between an Aeonium and a Sempervivum. Both succulent plants that are characterised by their rosette foliage. 'Diamond' has a dense and conical habit, consisting of several rosettes with thick leaves. They are contrasting, a fairly light and vibrant green surrounded by red margins if the plant is exposed to the sun. Its hardiness is estimated at -5ºC until further tested.

x Semponium 'Diamond' belongs to the family of Crassulaceae. It is the first hybrid between two genera of succulent plants: Aeonium and Sempervivum or houseleeks. The former are mainly native to the Canary Islands, but also to Madeira, Morocco, and Ethiopia. Aeoniums are magnificent perennials with rosette foliage, astonishing colours, and multiple forms. Houseleeks, on the other hand, are found naturally in rocky meadows, on rocks and scree, especially in mountainous areas. They display beautiful rosettes of green, golden, bluish, or reddish-purple tinted leaves. 'Diamond' grows up to 40 cm high with an equivalent width and produces numerous offsets. The leaves are quite rounded and pointed. They are thick and overlapping, without petioles, like an artichoke.

x Semponium 'Diamond', like its parents, is an excellent plant for dry or alpine rock gardens, in mild climates. Plant this perennial in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. It also thrives very well in pots and can be brought indoors to a conservatory in winter to protect it from the cold. It looks stunning in a container thanks to its sculptural design and conical habit. You can also grow it in a rock garden with houseleeks of various colours, Sedums, or Lewisia cotyledon with pink flowers.