Aichrizon (Aichryson) is also referred to as "love tree". It is directly related to the genus of succulent plants, which are part of the bastard family. Such a plant prefers to grow in cracks in rocks. In nature, it can be found in the Canary and Azores Islands, Madeira, Portugal and Morocco. This genus unites 15 species, among which there are herbaceous perennial and annual plants and shrubs. The name of such a flower is formed from 2 Greek words, namely: ai - "always" and chrysos - "golden". Aichrizon bears a clear resemblance to its closely related money tree.
Shoots at aichrizon are partly branched and hardly lignified. Opposite fleecy leaves have a rounded-ovoid shape, while they are collected in leaf rosettes. The color of the leaf plate is dark green or green, sometimes there are blotches of yellow, white, gray and red. A not very pleasant smell emanates from the damaged leaf plate. The leaves are heart-shaped, which is why such a plant is called the “tree of love”. Paniculate or corymbose inflorescences consist of small star-shaped flowers that can be white, red or cream in color. Flowering is observed in April or May. After the plant has faded, its leaf rosette, which gave the peduncle, dies off. At home, aichrizon is grown as a standard tree or a simple bush.
How to care for a flower aichrizon
Aichrizon tree of happiness planting and care at home photo
Aichrizon is not a capricious plant and takes root well even in apartments where there are unfavorable growing conditions. It's easy enough to look after him.
Choosing a place for a flower aichrizon
Avoid direct sunlight, heating effects from batteries, household appliances. The best place is the west or east window; on the south side, you need to create a light shadow using gauze or tulle. The temperature regime for spring and summer is 20-25 ° C, in winter 10 ° C is enough, at elevated temperatures leaves fall.
Watering and moisture for a flower
Aichrizon is a succulent that does not need strong watering. When the leaves are elastic, dense, there is enough moisture. Water often, but a little, abundant watering will lead to decay of the roots, extremely rare watering is needed in winter.
Air humidity is not a decisive factor in care, the plant tolerates dry room air well. Occasionally, a warm shower will not hurt, but not in winter.
Soil and fertilizers for aichrizon
Since the Aichrizon root system is small and weak, you should not use heavy soil and a tall pot, in which case the roots may rot. An ideal mixture for a plant: combine one part of peat, sod land, coarse sand, expanded clay or gravel, pour into clay pots with a diameter of up to 12 cm with the addition of good drainage material to the bottom, pieces of birch coal will also come in handy.
For splendor and a good look of the bush in the spring-summer period, it is necessary to often fertilize: complex fertilizers with a low nitrogen content are introduced every two weeks, fertilization is not required in winter.
Pruning
To form a nice rounded crown, pinch the tops of young shoots, underdeveloped and old ones - remove completely. In the spring, it is necessary to prune especially long shoots; also cut off faded peduncles.
How to transplant a tree of love
If the roots have filled the pot too much, a transplant should be carried out in the spring, then water in small portions. You also need a transplant when buying a flower from a store, it is better to replace this soil.
Flowering aichrizona
2-3-year-old plants begin to bloom. Blooming in spring, almost all species can delight with flowering for about six months. When the age is reached, but flowering does not come, perhaps the conditions of care were not met - transplant it into a small pot, water it moderately, leave it in a cool place for the winter.
Description
One of the features of Aichrizon is that by its appearance, you can tell exactly what state the plant is in and what it lacks:
- If the leaves are shriveled, then this signals a lack of moisture.
- If the stems stretch too far, the plant does not have enough light.
- If leaves fall, you need to check the soil: it may be too dry or too wet. Another likely reason is that the plant was in direct sunlight.
- In autumn or winter, the cause of leaf fall may be too warm air, since the love tree needs coolness for a comfortable winter.
Already prepared soil for cacti and succulents is perfect for Aichrizon.
Also, the recommended soil composition for aichrizon: sod soil - 4 parts, humus 1 part, cleaned sand or small brick chips - 1 part, soil - 1 part. At the bottom of the pot, be sure to put a drainage of small stones. Water the plant after transplanting only after five days.
Aichryson
The roots of the plant are small, so the pot is matched exactly to it and is replaced only as it grows. Of course, after purchase, the plant needs to be transplanted. It is simply carefully transferred along with an earthen lump to another pot and filled with soil. The container for aichrizon should be a couple of centimeters wider and five - deeper than the one from which it is transplanted. This feature is due to the fact that in nature the plant lives in rocks, where there is little room for roots.
Love tree indoor flower tolerates drought well, loves warmth, light, but not direct sunlight. Blooms from early spring to late autumn. The flowers are medium-sized, yellow.
Aichrizon is a plant that loves diffused, but at the same time bright light.
How to propagate Aichrizon
New flowers are obtained by propagation by cuttings and seeds, but the seeds do not germinate for a long time, therefore cuttings are preferred.
Growing from seeds
To grow aichrizone from seeds, prepare a mixture of leafy earth and sand in a ratio of 1 to 2. Sow the seeds, build a greenhouse, cover with glass or film, place in a bright place, periodically ventilate and irrigate the soil. Seedlings will appear in a couple of weeks. The grown flowers dive, change the original soil to a mixture of sand, light soil and leafy earth in a ratio of 0.5 + 0.5 + 1. Plant the hardened plants in separate pots with a diameter of about 7 cm, provide an air temperature of 18 ° C.
Aichrizon cuttings
Reproduction of aichrizon by cuttings photo
Cutting is even easier: cut off the shoot, a couple of hours after cutting off from the main plant, dig it into the soil for succulents or a mixture of sand and vermiculite. Plant the rooted bushes in pots with a diameter of up to 7 cm. For the formation of roots, the cutting can also be placed in water, but it can simply rot.
Reproduction
Aichrizon can be propagated by seeds and cuttings.
Reproduction by seeds. The seeds are placed in soil consisting of leafy soil (1 part) and clean sand (½ part). Close with glass. The room temperature should be 16-18 ° C.Crops are regularly watered and aired.
After two weeks, the sprouts are transplanted into another soil (light soil - ½ part, sand - ½ part, leafy ground - 1 part) at a distance of 10 mm from each other. They need regular watering and light to grow. Then the sprouts are transplanted into small pots.
Mature tree
Propagation by cuttings. The size of cuttings for growing is 8-10 centimeters. Cut cuttings should be put in a dark, dry place for a couple of hours to dry. And then plant it in a container with wet sand, verminculite (a layered mineral containing water) or soil for succulents mixed with sand. Roots appear three to four weeks after planting. High humidity is not recommended, otherwise the cuttings may rot. After rooting, plant in pots with a diameter of 5-7 centimeters.
You can put the cuttings in the water for rooting, but you must make sure that they do not rot. Plant as soon as roots appear. A young tree begins to bloom two to three years after planting.
Diseases and pests of the tree of love
Aichrizone has strong immunity. Observing proper care, diseases will not appear, and harm will most likely be bypassed. Occasionally they can be attacked by nematodes, spider mites, mealybugs. Excessive watering threatens the appearance of rot. Falling leaves in autumn is quite normal, because the plant is preparing to winter, but when faced with this summer, check if the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight. Excessive watering or drying out of the soil can also provoke leaf fall.
Formation
Aichrizon love tree looks beautiful and exotic in the room. Caring for him includes the obligatory formation of a bush. Without such a procedure, fragile overgrown branches with an asymmetrical crown can break under the weight of their branches and leaves.
As noted above, this plant is great for making bonsai. It can be shaped like a miniature tree, a ball and bizarre silhouettes can be created from it. In addition, pruning stimulates the growth of new young branches. This procedure should be carried out several times a year. Florists should not be scared by the gradual fall of the leaves after they dry. This is a completely normal phenomenon that occurs during the growth of the bush and during the flowering period.
Under natural conditions of growth, aichrizon is a spreading dwarf shrub. Regular pruning can make it look like a miniature tree when it is kept at home.
How it's done? During the period of intensive plant growth, the tops of the newly forming shoots should be pinched by about 2-3 cm. It is necessary to get rid of poorly located (protruding) and weak branches in a timely manner. And after a period of rest of the plant, if it loses its good shape, it is best to re-root the cuttings cut from it. You should not waste time on any attempts to return the decorative effect to the old plant. The new tree will grow pretty quickly.
Types of indoor aichrizon with photos and descriptions
Popular types of love tree: there are about 15 types of plants, differing in the shape of the leaves, the size of the bush, the density of the edge.
Aichryson sedifolium
A semi-shrub about 40 cm high, with straight shoots, short leaves - about 15 mm, wide, club-like, growing close to each other, forming a rosette up to 6 cm in diameter. They can be yellow-green, green, sometimes with reddish stripes that give off a sticky substance that covers the surface of the leaf. Flowering - yellow flowers forming racemose inflorescences, blooms for about two months. In winter, it is prone to shedding foliage.
Domestic aichryson aichryson x domesticum
Home Aichryson aichryson x domesticum photo
A hybrid form of the tree of love.A compact bush up to 30 cm in height and in diameter, with small leaves in the form of a club, up to 2 cm in length and 1 cm in width, collected in miniature rosettes covered with white fibers. Leaves are bright green, inflorescences are yellow, fragrant, can bloom up to six months.
Read also: Hydrangea planting and care in the Leningrad region
Aichryson tortuous Aichryson tortuosum
Aichryson tortuous Aichryson tortuosum
A neat bush, about 30 cm high with light green thick diamond-shaped leaves, covered with edging, collected in rosettes, the leaf area is about 1.5 cm. A feature is a short petiole, flowering reaches six months.
Loose or spread Aichryson Aichryson laxum
Loose or spread Aichryson Aichryson laxum photo
A shrub in the form of a cube, about 40 cm high. Leaves-rhomboids, with white pubescence, 1-3 cm in size, placed on a long petiole, form rosettes. Yellow flowers bloom in early spring and can bloom for about 6 months, foliage shedding after flowering is characteristic.
Aichryson punctatum
Aichryson punctatum Aichryson punctatum photo
Reaches a height of 40 cm. Brown-green shoots have a dense white edge, and rhomboid leaves are poorly pubescent, located on long petioles, collected in rosettes.
The beautiful aichrizon is known to many gardeners as the "tree of love", having received such a nickname for the unusual shape of the leaves, which outwardly resemble rounded hearts. The plant has a branched shape with a lush crown, which blooms once a year - in summer. Depending on the species, you can admire both red and golden inflorescences. However, in order for the tree to grow well and be healthy, you need to know about the basic care of Aichrizon at home.
Name
The scientific name is Aichryson. Translated from Greek - "forever golden". This plant is a succulent and belongs to the jumbo family and has 15 species.
The tree of love is a short shrub (depending on the species it grows from 15 to 40 centimeters) with a dense thick trunk and fleshy dark green leaves with a fringe. The leaves are a bit like hearts in shape, which is probably the reason for the name. It blooms from spring to autumn with bright yellow flowers.
Indoor plant Love tree photo:
Love tree
Types and varieties of the "tree of love"
When choosing aichrizon for your small greenhouse, you should know that the plant has several species. Here are the most popular ones:
- Aichrizon homemade is the most common variety of shrubs, reaching up to 30 cm in height. The crown diameter is about the same. The plant is characterized by small, dense foliage, with a shallow edge and rich green color. This species is popular due to its flowering - you can admire peduncles up to 20 cm in height.
- Sinuous is a small-sized representative of the group, which grows up to 15–20 cm in height. Such a shrub is characterized by rhomboid leaves with an edge, as well as yellow stellate inflorescences. The plant can bloom for up to 4-6 months in a row.
- Aichrizon sedum-leaved is a larger shrub with a beautiful spreading crown. Branches of this variety are highly branched, with dense rosettes up to 12 cm in diameter. Also, this type of tree has no edge on the foliage, they are completely smooth and have brown spots. Flowering reaches 8 cm and is distinguished by a rich yellow color, delighting the owners in the spring.
- Spot - a tree up to 40 cm high, which is characterized by densely pubescent green-brown shoots and diamond-shaped foliage. The rosettes are dense and have a carved border. Such a shrub produces small loose inflorescences of yellow color.
- Aichrizon loose is also a very common type of shrub, which is large in size and has a square crown up to 40 cm.The leaves are dense, diamond-shaped, slightly pubescent and are located closer to the end of the petioles. Produces large yellow inflorescences.
Aichrizon is an excellent decorative tree for a home greenhouse
Botanical dossier
Aichrizon flower is a low herbaceous bush with practically non-lignified, well-branched shoots.
A healthy plant has a dense crown, multiple heart-shaped leaves are located opposite, forming dense or loose rosettes in various types.
The leaf blades are pubescent, deep green in color, in some forms they have small light, reddish, yellow specks. If the leaf is damaged, an unpleasant odor appears.
In May or at the end of April, peduncles are formed on the tops of some rosettes, bearing curly paniculate or corymbose inflorescences of small stellate flowers of a sun-yellow, coral or creamy white color.
After the wilting of the inflorescences, the leaf rosette dries out.
Reproduction at home
Aichrizon lends itself well to reproduction, basically the process takes place through stems or cuttings. To do this, it is necessary to dry the planting material in a darkened room and plant it in the soil. The potted soil is unusual. The composition contains moist sand and vermiculite. You can also use deciduous or sod land. All components are brought in in a 1: 1 ratio. Further planting occurs after the roots appear, they must be transplanted into a larger pot and aichrizon grown at a temperature of 16 ° C-18 ° C.
Reproduction is carried out less often by means of seeds. As a rule, they are immediately placed in the soil, which also consists of river sand and deciduous soil. The plant can only be watered by spraying.
Important! Before the first sprouts appear, the pots must be wrapped in plastic wrap.
After stable, healthy shoots have formed, it is necessary to plant young shrubs in small pots, continuing to care for plants in case of propagation by shoots.
Aichrizon easily tolerates reproduction and is unpretentious at a new landing site
How to transplant a houseplant correctly?
The right time
Under optimal conditions, aichrizon grows rather quickly, so it needs a transplant every 2-3 years. During this time, the flower has time to tightly braid the roots of an earthen lump. The procedure is carried out in early spring, before the plant "wakes up" after winter rest.
Selection of soil and pot
Since the root system is superficial and relatively undeveloped, a pot in the form of a bowl is suitable for aichrizon. A very large container is not suitable, increase the diameter by a maximum of 5 cm, and the depth by 2–3 cm. It is advisable to choose ceramic pots - they are heavier, which means they are more stable, and air passes through the pores, which prevents water stagnation and the development of rot.
Aichrizon is planted in the soil for succulents and cacti. It meets all the needs of the plant. The substrate is prepared independently according to the following recipes:
- fertile sod land, universal soil for indoor plants, leaf humus, coarse river sand (4: 1: 1: 1). A useful additive is small pieces of coal or old red bricks crushed into crumbs (5-10% of the total volume);
- leafy soil, fertile turf, sand or fine expanded clay (2: 2: 2: 1);
- soil from the garden (the best option is light loam) and any "baking powder" - sand, perlite, vermiculite, pieces of pumice, lava, brick chips (3: 1).
Step-by-step instruction
There is nothing complicated in the Aichrizon transplant:
- Cover the bottom of the pot with expanded clay or another material with similar properties, creating a layer about 2 cm thick. Add the same amount of fresh substrate on top. Moisten the soil slightly.
- Remove the plant from the pot, cut off dead rosettes and dried shoots with a sharp, clean knife. Sprinkle the sections with activated carbon powder, crushed chalk, colloidal sulfur. Do the same with rotten and dried out roots.
- Leave aichrizone outdoors for 1–2 days.
- Place the plant in a new pot, add soil. It is not necessary to strongly crush it, it is better to shake the container a couple of times so that the soil is evenly distributed and there are no voids left.
- Remove the flower in partial shade. Water the plant for the first time 5-6 days after transplanting. Then return to its original location and resume watering carefully. During the first month, you need to moisten the soil moderately so as not to cause rot.
Growing difficulties
Novice growers often face problems when breeding aichrizone. It is not always possible to solve them without some experience, so we will give the most common difficulties below:
- Strong fall of foliage. This phenomenon is not uncommon and there can be many reasons for the appearance. For example, you have too waterlogged an earthen ball, kept the plant in intense sunlight, or overdried the soil in a pot. If the foliage falls off at the end of autumn, then this indicates an increase in indoor temperature. Take aichrizone to a cool place, where it will be no more than 8 ° C-10 ° C. Also, do not be afraid if leaf fall occurs at the end of flowering - this is normal.
- In conditions of "warm" wintering, the stems of aichrizon, as a rule, become bare and stretch along, forming an irregular skeleton. If this happens to your plant, then the only thing you can do is root the tops, rejuvenating the tree. Pinching of the apical bud is also allowed along with pruning of the central stem.
- Aichrizon is resistant to diseases. The same goes for pests. However, the plant is susceptible to the negative effects of rot, so you should not "fill" the pot.
Aichrizon can be sick due to improper care
Pests, diseases
The love tree is fairly resistant to most plant diseases. And pests that attack most indoor plants are not afraid of him. The only danger for him is rot, the appearance of which indicates improper care of the plant (usually excessive watering). If the plant is not severely rotted, it can still be saved.
There are special drugs (apinin, trichodermin, discor) with which the plant can be cured.
Aichrizon care
Maintain optimal air temperature. During the spring-summer period, the plant should be kept at 20 ° C - 25 ° C. If it is stuffy in your home, then try to provide the aichrizona with an influx of fresh air or take the pot out into the garden, sheltering it from rain and wind. The tree should overwinter at a temperature of 8-10 ° C.
Watch out for lighting - aichrizone needs diffused, but bright light. Try to close it from direct sunlight, as this will create discomfort for the plant, up to the appearance of burns. The best option is to place the pot on the windowsill on the west side. If the windows face south, shade the place where the plant stands with a white sheet of A4 paper or a curtain.
Important! In order for the crown of the aichrizon to be thick and regular in shape, it is necessary to periodically turn the pot with the opposite side to the light.
There are no special requirements regarding air humidity, so the tree will be suitable for normal care like any ornamental plant.
Read also: What kind of oil to pour into the cultivator
Be careful with watering aichrizon. This plant needs moderate soil moisture, which is indicated by the turgor of the foliage. Avoid rotting, so inspect the outlets every week. If they are springy, it means that the tree has enough moisture, and if lethargy appears, it is necessary to water it. Increase the water volume in summer and spring compared to winter.
To stimulate the growth of new leaves, you need to take a warm shower twice a month. You will need to take the Aichrizone pot to the bathroom and spray generously with 30 ° C water. Then leave the plant in the same place until the drops are completely dry so that it does not get burned in the sun.And only then return to your place. During the dormant period, it is not recommended to water aichrizon at all.
Aichrizon is unpretentious in care, but needs constant attention
Location
The best place for aichrizon is a bright, warm room, but so that the flower does not fall into direct sunlight.
Do not put it next to heating and household appliances.
Windows are suitable for the tree of love, but if the side is south, then in the spring - in the summer you need to do a little shading. It can be secured with a lightweight cloth or paper screen. Also, if the light source is on one side, then it is recommended to regularly rotate the plant so that all its branches receive enough light.
You can place the tree of love on a closed balcony or loggia.
Aichrizon on the balcony
If the climate permits, then you can plant aichrizon in the garden. The area should be slightly shaded. The best thing is to create conditions for the plant that are close to natural, those in which it usually grows. Make a hill of stones, and plant a tree of love between them.
Or you can simply lay drainage in the ground, right under the roots, just like when growing in a pot - small stones. If the temperature drops below 5-6 ° C in winter, the plant can be covered.
It is possible to move the Aichrizon to a garden or balcony in the summer, but at the same time make sure that it is protected from direct sunlight, rain and wind.
Watering aichrizon is necessary as the soil in the pot dries up. Since aichrizon accumulates ox in the trunk and leaves, it can safely survive a period of drought, but still do not forget about watering. In the summer, it is recommended to regularly spray it with water to remove dust from the leaves. In winter, you can spray once a month.
It is not recommended to place the flower so that it gets air from the air conditioner.
The optimum temperature is 20-25 ° C. In late autumn and winter, 10 ° C is enough for the love tree. For him, this is a period of rest and accumulation of strength for flowering, therefore, watering is moderate. Water for irrigation must be defended, and with increased hardness, add a little (literally a drop per liter or two of water) of apple cider vinegar.
Transfer
Caring for a plant at home involves an annual transplant in the spring. Coming out of hibernation, the rhizomes of aichrizon tightly braid the soil in the pot and it needs to be changed. Choose shallow containers as the root system of these plants is shallow. The composition of the soil should be as follows:
- sheet land - 1 part;
- river sand - 1 part;
- turf - 2 parts;
- humus - 1 part.
Transplanting must be done every year so that the tree has a beautiful crown.
general information
It is not really a tree. Most of the species are herbaceous plants. There are many shrubs among them.
The connection of this plant with love is quite clearly traced. Many signs about him endow him with the ability to predict important changes regarding the relationship between lovers. This plant is often called both the "tree of happiness" and the "money tree".
This low, highly branching succulent, belonging to the Fat family, is unpretentious in care and growing conditions, decorative, multiplies easily and grows quickly. This unusual plant makes wonderful bonsai, as it is not difficult to form.
This article provides information about the Aichrizone tree of love: signs, reviews. Also here you can learn about the features of caring for this amazing plant.
Top dressing and flowering trees
Complex formulations with a low nitrogen content are suitable for fertilizing aichrizon, otherwise the plant will not bloom. Fertilization is carried out in the spring - autumn period, or from the moment of flowering to its completion, once every 2 weeks.
Growing aichrizon at home, flowering usually occurs at the age of 2-3 years in the spring and can last up to 6 months, depending on the type of plant. If at this age the tree does not bloom, the conditions of its maintenance should be changed: transplant it into a smaller pot, put it in a cool, dark place and provide rare watering.
Important! During flowering, aichrizon loses up to 80% of its foliage, and the rosettes themselves die off. This is normal and not a warning sign of tree disease. After pruning, the plant will quickly regain its green mass.
Blooming aichrizon will decorate your home with amazing colors
Growing conditions
This plant is easy to care for at home. The aichrizon tree of love is unpretentious and prefers moderation in everything. And it is picky about growing conditions. A bright place is suitable for him, but without direct sunlight. This condition is necessary in order to avoid the appearance of burns on the leaves. However, even when in the sun, the tree will live, but shrink a little. In a heavily shaded place, it will lose its compactness and become loose.
Flower containers for aichrizon should not be selected "for growth" due to the fact that it has a meager root system. It is necessary to provide for the presence of drainage at the bottom of the pot. Feels great on light nutritious soil (preferably neutral). You can add crushed brick or coarse sand to the ground. Suitable for this plant and potting mix intended for cacti.
Aichrizon grows well indoors throughout the year. Ideal conditions are warm summers (temperature + 21-25 ° C) and cool winters (+ 8-12 ° C). Subject to this regime, the plant will be able to rest in the fall, and bloom in the spring.
With regard to watering, moderation should also be taken into account: in summer this procedure should be carried out as needed, and rarely in winter. This succulent is able to calmly endure a temporary drought. For this plant, the moisture inherent in ordinary apartments is sufficient.
Pruning and disease
The love tree can be grown with a shrub or a trunk. In order for the crown of aichrizon to be thick and beautiful, it is necessary to regularly pinch the tops of the shoots, as well as remove the crooked shoots. If, due to the heat, the skeleton was bent, you can cut off the ugly shoots and re-root healthy cuttings.
As a rule, Aichrizone is not very attractive to pests and is not affected by them. However, he is susceptible to diseases caused by improper care. For example, the decay of an earthen coma due to high humidity, abundant watering leads to leaf fall and weakening.
Signs
The aichrizon tree of love, according to some beliefs, will bloom only in the house where mutual understanding and harmony are present. The flower does not feel well in an atmosphere of enmity. Flowering in such an environment stops, the leaves wither and begin to dry and fall off. It is important to notice the deterioration of the plant's condition in time and try to prevent the deterioration of the situation and establish normal relations.
According to superstition, only the restoration of good relationships on all levels (emotional, spiritual and sexual) will help restore the plant to its former fragrant appearance. The blooming of his flowers will indicate that the marriage is no longer in danger.
There are signs that interpret the flowering of aichrizon indoor not as an indicator of the situation in the family, but as a way to strengthen relationships. We can say that even if this tree is simply in the house, then it will always contribute to peace and harmony in the family.
Video: how to properly care for aichrizon
As you can see, growing aichrizon at home is a rather hassle-free activity, but as a result you will get an amazingly beautiful tree.With proper care, the plant will delight its owners with amazing flowering for 4-6 months in a row, while only a few simple rules must be followed.
Aichrizon (Aichryson) is also referred to as "love tree". It is directly related to the genus of succulent plants, which are part of the bastard family. Such a plant prefers to grow in cracks in rocks. In nature, it can be found in the Canary and Azores Islands, Madeira, Portugal and Morocco. This genus unites 15 species, among which there are herbaceous perennial and annual plants and shrubs. The name of such a flower is formed from 2 Greek words, namely: ai - "always" and chrysos - "golden". Aichrizon bears a clear resemblance to its closely related money tree.
Shoots at aichrizon are partly branched and hardly lignified. Opposite fleecy leaves have a rounded-ovoid shape, while they are collected in leaf rosettes. The color of the leaf plate is dark green or green, sometimes there are blotches of yellow, white, gray and red. A not very pleasant smell emanates from the damaged leaf plate. The leaves are heart-shaped, which is why such a plant is called the “tree of love”. Paniculate or corymbose inflorescences consist of small star-shaped flowers that can be white, red or cream in color. Flowering is observed in April or May. After the plant has faded, its leaf rosette, which gave the peduncle, dies off. At home, aichrizon is grown as a standard tree or a simple bush.
Origin
The love tree is a fairly popular houseplant due to its beauty and unpretentiousness. Several beliefs are associated with it, but for some reason only in Russia. It is believed that this plant brings love and happiness to the house. In a house where the plant is well looked after, it blooms, and in turn responds to kind owners.
A photo of an indoor flower Love tree can be found in the encyclopedia of house plants.
The homeland of this plant is the island of Madeira.
It can also be seen in Portugal, the Canary Islands and the Azores archipelago and Morocco. The name of the genus is translated from Greek as "always golden", which fully describes the unusual beauty of this succulent
Homeland of the Tree of Love
Caring for the tree of love at home
Caring for such a plant will not be difficult.
Illumination
Aichrizon needs a lot of light, but it should be borne in mind that it must be necessarily diffused (you can use a curtain or gauze). To place such a flower, it is recommended to choose a window of western or eastern orientation. In order for the branches and leaves of the bush to grow and develop evenly, experts advise that you regularly rotate the pot around its axis.
Temperature regime
In the warm season, this plant needs a normal room temperature. With the onset of the winter period, it is recommended to lower the temperature to 8-10 degrees. If at this time it will be warm in the room where the plant is located, then its stems may stretch out and leaves fall off.
How to water
In order to properly water aichrizon, you need to pay attention to the condition of its leaf plates. So, if they are elastic and dense, then the plant does not need watering. It is necessary to water it when the leaves begin to lose turgor. This is usually seen after the soil in the flowerpot has dried to half its height.
Watering is done relatively often, and not very much water is used. And that's all, because rare, but abundant watering can cause rotting of the root system. It should be borne in mind that in the spring-summer period, watering should be more frequent than in the autumn-winter.
Air humidity
It is not necessary to maintain high humidity.But at the same time, in the summer, a warm shower must be arranged for the plant. In winter, such water procedures cannot be carried out.
Read also: Do-it-yourself fireplaces in the country photo
Pruning
In order to form a standard tree or a neat crown, pruning is required for aichrizona. At the same time, they try to cut off weak stems, and in order for the bush to be more lush, it is necessary to pinch the tops of young shoots. In spring, pruning of elongated stems is carried out.
Top dressing
Top dressing is carried out during intensive growth (in the spring-summer period) once every 2 weeks. For this, a complex fertilizer for succulents with a low nitrogen content is used.
Flowering features
As a rule, flowering occurs in the summer. However, in order for the plant to bloom, you need to follow some rules. So, the flower requires a fairly tight pot, it does not need to be watered very often, and in winter it should be kept in a cool place. There is nothing super complicated in these rules, and if you follow them, then aichrizon will delight with its flowering for 6 months. After flowering is over, the flower sheds most of its foliage. At this time, all faded flower stalks and weakened stems should be removed. Watering needs to be increased. Gradually, Aichrizon will be able to fully recover.
Transplant features
Such a plant requires an annual transplant, and a cramped flower pot should be chosen for it. Each new pot should only be slightly larger than the previous one. To prepare a suitable soil mixture, it is necessary to combine leaf and turf soil, cleaned sand and humus, which should be taken in a ratio of 1: 4: 1: 1. Do not forget to make a good drainage layer at the bottom of the pot before planting (it is recommended to use expanded clay).
Reproduction methods
You can propagate by seeds and cuttings, while this is done quite simply and easily.
Sowing of seeds is carried out in a mixture consisting of refined sand and leafy soil (1: 2). The container with the seeds must be covered with glass and placed in a bright place. Crops must be systematically ventilated and moistened from a sprayer. After about half a month, the first shoots should appear, which should be transplanted into boxes, while there should be a centimeter distance between the seedlings. The boxes should be filled with a mixture of leaf earth and light earth and clean sand, taken in a 2: 1: 1 ratio. After the seedlings grow up, they are seated in separate small (about 7 centimeters in diameter) pots. They are grown at a temperature of 16 to 18 degrees, while the plants need to be watered every day.
After pruning, you should have a lot of cuttings that you can root if you want. To do this, they must be put in a dry, dark place for drying for 2 hours. Then they can be planted in a low pot filled with a mixture of sand and vermiculite or a soil mixture for succulents, into which you need to add some sand. Rooting occurs relatively quickly. Rooted cuttings are planted in separate small (7 centimeters in diameter) pots. For rooting, you can use a glass of water, into which you should add charcoal.
Diseases and pests
If you organize proper care for the plant, then there should be no problems when growing it. So, you should ensure: the correct watering regime, bright, but diffused light, as well as a cool wintering (you can take it out to the insulated loggia). If the rules of care are violated, scale insects, nematodes, spider mites, as well as mealybugs can settle on aichrizone. If the watering regime is violated, then rot may appear on the plant.
A common problem when growing such a flower is foliage shedding.In the event that this occurs in the spring-summer period, the reason for this may be exposure to direct rays of the sun, complete dryness of the soil, or stagnation of water in the substrate. In the event that this occurs in the autumn-winter period, the plant must be transferred to a well-lit and sufficiently cool place for wintering. Also, foliage can die off during the flowering period.
Reproduction methods
The plant is easily propagated by sowing seeds and cuttings. Breeding conditions are slightly different from the generally accepted cultivation of planting material for other succulents.
Seeds
It is advisable to use planting material collected no more than a year ago. For planting, a soil mixture is prepared, consisting of 2 parts of leaf humus and 1 part of coarse-grained river sand.
The seeds are buried shallowly into the ground, the containers are covered with glass or plastic wrap on top and placed in a well-lit, moderately warm place. Ventilate regularly by raising the shelter and moisten with a spray bottle.
Seedlings are shown in 2 weeks. When 3-4 true leaves are formed, the plant dives into another container filled with a mixture of leafy earth, light garden soil and sand, mixed in a 2: 1: 1 ratio.
The distance between the seedlings is maintained from 2 to 5 cm. In separate pots they are seated already well-grown and grown.
Cuttings
After spring pruning, there are always many cuttings suitable for rooting. They are dried for several hours, and then buried in a substrate made up of vermiculite and sand, taken in equal quantities, or in an ordinary commercial mortar for succulents, into which a little sand is mixed.
Usually, there is no particular difficulty with the formation of roots in the cutting. With the appearance of young leaves on its top, it becomes clear that rooting has been successful, and the young plant can already be transplanted into a separate flower container.
It is permissible to root the cuttings in ordinary water, but in order to avoid decay, pieces of activated or charcoal are added to it.
Attention!
Aichrizon reproduces even with the help of a leaf blade, one-third buried in the substrate for rooting cuttings.
Main types
Below are the most popular types of flower growers.
Aichryson punctatum
This is not a very large succulent plant, which can reach a height of 15-40 centimeters. On the surface of the brownish-green stems, there is a pubescence consisting of whitish hairs. Dlinnochereshkovye weakly pubescent leaves have a rhomboid shape. They are collected in sheet sockets.
Aichryson tortuosum
This not very tall shrub in width and height reaches 15-30 centimeters. On the surface of the fleshy rhomboid leaves, there is pubescence, consisting of whitish hairs. They are also collected in sheet sockets. The leaves are short petiolate in length reaching 1.5 centimeters, and in width - 1 centimeter. Flowering is observed in the spring.
Aichryson laxum
This shrub in height can reach from 30 to 40 centimeters, and in diameter ― from 20 to 40 centimeters. The diamond-shaped leaves have long petioles, and their surface is covered with short whitish hairs. In length they reach from 1.5 to 3 centimeters, and in width - 1 centimeter. Inflorescences are large, racemose in length reaching 30 centimeters. Consist of golden yellow flowers.
Aichryson sedifolium
This bushy succulent is a shrub. It reaches a height of 15–40 centimeters, and ―13 centimeters in diameter. Has straight branches. On the surface of the fleshy clavate leaves there is a sticky coating. They reach 1.5 centimeters in length. Form leaf rosettes up to 6 centimeters in diameter.The leaves are colored greenish-yellow or green, and there are red stripes on their surface. Inflorescences reach 7 centimeters in length. They are composed of golden yellow flowers.
Aichryson homemade (Aichryson x domesticum)
This is a hybrid plant created by crossing aichrizona point and aichrizona sinuous. This succulent shrub has a width and height of 15-30 centimeters. Fleshy, clavate-shaped leaves have pubescence, consisting of short whitish hairs. In length, such leaves reach from 1.5 to 2 centimeters, and in width - 1 centimeter. They form leaf rosettes. The fragrant flowers are yellow in color. There is a variegated form with variegated foliage - Aichryson x domesticum "Variegatum".
Such a plant is called the "tree of love", due to the fact that its leaves have a heart-shaped shape. However, in reality it is a "tree of happiness". The fact is that in a house where there is such a plant there is always harmony and harmony, which was noted by a huge number of people.
Origin and distribution
Under natural conditions, small herbaceous dwarf shrubs grow in Morocco, Madeira, the Azores, one type of succulent is found in Portugal.
The homeland of most of them is considered to be the Canary Islands, especially Palma, which is home to more than half of the aichrizone species known today.
Among them there are many endemics that do not grow anywhere else in the world, except for the Canary Islands.
As a houseplant, the flower is very popular among flower growers of the former CIS countries, partly due to its popular name.
In other countries, the name “tree of love” is not associated with aichrizon.
"Magical" properties
If you believe superstitions and omens, then this tree of love has the following properties.
- It can create an aura of happiness and peace, as well as provide a romantic atmosphere in the room in which it is located.
- Adds strength.
- Neutralizes the impact of negative energy in the house.
- Protects housing and its owners from harm.
- Strengthens mutual desire.
- Establishes a good relationship and understanding between people who are in the room.
- They improve relationships between people, and also contribute to the strengthening of the marriage union.
It is believed that the presence of aichrizone in the house contributes to mutual understanding, love between people
Important! At the same time, the manifestation of the magical properties of a tree is observed only if proper care is organized for it.
Top dressing
Like any indoor flower, aichrizon, the "tree of love", also needs feeding. How to grow a full-fledged plant at home, what fertilizers should be used in order not to harm it? In these matters, it is best to listen to the opinion of experienced florists.
Mineral fertilizers are applied not only in order to be able to admire the abundant and long flowering. Many of them are also used for crown formation. During the flowering period, the plant is fed at intervals of 2 weeks, using special complex fertilizers intended for succulents. They usually contain phosphorus, potassium and small amounts of nitrogen.
Care errors and their elimination
It is difficult to destroy aichrizons. But if you systematically ignore the rules of care, the following problems may arise:
Problem | The reasons | Decision |
Falling leaves | High temperature during dormancy, drying out of the soil or waterlogging | In winter, keep the flower at a temperature of + 8-10 degrees, water as needed |
Pulling out shoots, pallor and shallowness of leaves | Lack of lighting | Put the flowerpot in a brighter place |
Yellowing of leaves | Being under the scorching sun, violation of the irrigation regime | Provide diffused light, control soil moisture |
Lethargy and wrinkled leaves | Lack of moisture | Water after half of the soil has dried |
What difficulties may arise in leaving?
In the process of growing aichrizon, various difficulties can arise. For example, a flower may be susceptible to disease or attacked by a parasite. The table below shows the possible difficulties that may arise when caring for a flower, as well as ways to eliminate them.
Problem | Cause | What to do? |
A damp spot on foliage that has an olive-gray color. Over time, it actively spreads along the buds and stems | Gray rot is a disease | To eliminate the disease, you will need to remove all damaged areas of the color, as well as transplant the plant into a sterile pot using new soil. Additionally, it is recommended to treat the flower with healing solutions of copper sulfate for 2-3 weeks. |
A black spot on the shoots of a flower, dying off and falling off of leaves | Root rot is a disease | In this case, you should also cut off the affected areas and transplant aichrizone into a new pot. Before transplanting, it is necessary to soak the root system in a mixture of water and Previkura. It is recommended to soak for 3-5 minutes. |
The growths on the stems are gray or brown. Change in soil color to an unnatural black | Scabbard - a parasite | It is necessary to destroy the pest with the help of alcohol, lubricating the stems and other affected areas of the plant. Also, if necessary, you can use the solutions of Metaphos and Actellik. |
Threads between stems, yellowing of leaves | Spider mite - pest | To eliminate the parasite, apply a thick foam to the flower and hold it for 20 minutes. After that, you need to rinse the mixture under a warm shower. If the stems, leaves or other parts of the plant are severely damaged, then it is recommended to use ethyl alcohol. |
Shriveled and dried leaves | Lack of necessary moisture | The watering regime should be adjusted by increasing the amount of moisture entering the flower. |
Yellowing of leaves and decay of the root system | Excess moisture | It is necessary, as in the previous case, to correct the irrigation regime by reducing the amount of incoming moisture. Additionally, you should transplant the flower into a new pot and remove the affected areas. |
Often, aichrizon is affected by parasites or various diseases, which need to be eliminated with the help of special drugs or folk remedies.
General information about the plant
The representative of the Tolstyankov family belongs to succulents, which makes it akin to a cactus. Wild Aichrizona species can be found in their natural habitat in rock crevices. The "tree of love" comes from countries with warm, even hot climates (Morocco, Madeira, Portugal) and exotic islands (Azores and Canary Islands). Outwardly, the plant is quite attractive: it is undersized (it does not even reach half a meter in height), has straight stems with some branching, decorated with opposite fleecy leaves in the shape of hearts.
Vegetable diet for weight loss
Aichrizon is a flourishing culture. Her reproductive organs are collected in inflorescences: scutes or panicles - and are miniature stars of yellow and scarlet shades. Aichrizon bloom depends on belonging to a particular species, but for the most part this process occurs in summer or spring.
Flowering features
The period of the beginning of flowering of aichrizon falls in the middle - end of spring, while only at the age of three the tree is able to bloom. Many growers choose either a leafy green tree or a flowering aichrizon, since, in most cases, one excludes the other. With abundant flowering, the plant spends a lot of energy, to preserve its lush color, the bush sheds foliage, some branches may dry out.
Aichrizon is capable of blooming for almost six months, as a result of which many growers do not allow the development of peduncles in order to preserve the appearance of the plant.
Features of seasonal care and wintering
Aichrizon undergoes several stages of its life cycle throughout the year. In the spring-summer period there is a period of active growth. At this time, the plant needs warmth, moderate watering, and regular feeding.
Culture has a pronounced dormant period. It begins in the fall after the end of flowering. The faded aichrizon is moved to a cool room with good ventilation. Top dressing for the winter is stopped, watering is reduced, bathing is prohibited. Instead of watering, it is preferable to use soil spraying once every 10-12 days.
Aichrizon: signs and superstitions
According to the most common belief, the tree of love blooms only where absolute love and understanding reigns.
But his death is a very bad sign. She promises an early parting with a loved one and, possibly, illness. It is popularly believed that if a couple manages to restore relations, the plant will begin to come to life and will soon bloom.
Another of the signs says that if aichrizon has picked up color in the house of a lonely person, then he will soon meet his soul mate.
By the tree of love, you can also judge the strength of a relationship that has just begun. If the plant feels great and produces flower stalks, then the partners are perfect for each other.
Aichrizona photo
- Aspidistra - tips for planting, care, reproduction and use in the interior (110 photos and videos)
Washingtonia: species with photos and names, a brief description of the cultivation, useful properties. Detailed instructions on how to care at home
Azalea: description, types and varieties, breeding methods, planting. Rules of care, watering, plant formation, feeding. Diseases and pests. 70 photos of blooming azaleas
Did you like the article? Please share with your friends
0
Write a comment
New design
Provence curtains - design ideas and an overview of the ideal combinations of curtains in a rustic style (110 photos and videos)
Minimalism in the apartment - interior ideas and design options. Tips for applying different styles (100 photos)
Kitchen-living room 20 sq. m. - design ideas, interior design options and an overview of the most stylish combinations (110 photos)
Living room decoration - tips for choosing colors and materials. An overview of the most beautiful living room design ideas (90 photos + video)
Care
Watering aichrizon is necessary as the soil in the pot dries up. Since aichrizon accumulates ox in the trunk and leaves, it can safely survive a period of drought, but still do not forget about watering. In the summer, it is recommended to regularly spray it with water to remove dust from the leaves. In winter, you can spray once a month.
It is not recommended to place the flower so that it gets air from the air conditioner.
The optimum temperature is 20-25 ° C. In late autumn and winter, 10 ° C is enough for the love tree. For him, this is a period of rest and accumulation of strength for flowering, therefore, watering is moderate. Water for irrigation needs to be defended, and with increased hardness, add a little (literally a drop per liter or two of water) of apple cider vinegar.
Aichrizon at home
In order for aichrizon to bloom, in the warm season it needs to be fed. Most common succulent fertilizers are suitable for the love tree. The only limitation is that feeding should be low in nitrogen., otherwise aichrizon will put all its strength into the growth of stems and leaves, but it will not bloom.
Aichrizon has rather heavy stems and sometimes they break under their own weight. To prevent this from happening, as well as to update the branches, it is better to prune. You can also give the crown of aichrizon various shapes.
Transplant and care
It is not difficult to properly care for the Aichrizon flower at home - this succulent is very unpretentious and prefers moderation in all manifestations of caring for it.
Transfer
Immediately after the purchase of the plant, a replacement of the storey soil is usually required.It is easy to transplant Aichrizon, usually it is done by the transshipment method, simply by rearranging the earthen lump into another container, where fresh soil is then poured. If there are doubts about what kind of pot is needed for Aichrizon, you can use the rule common to all succulents - the new container should be no more than two to three centimeters wider in diameter and no more than five more in depth. The fact is that in the wild, these plants are often crowded into rocks with a small amount of land, and therefore are most adapted to precisely such conditions. These succulents also take root well in small pots of an unusual shape: angular designer pots, glass vases with sand and colored stones, shallow trays in composition with other unpretentious plants. Cactus soil is best suited for this plant, preferably with the addition of small pebbles or chipped bricks.
Lighting
In the process of finding a suitable window sill for installing a pot with a plant, it is worth remembering that Aichrizon grows best in conditions of bright, but diffused light, with reliable protection from direct sunlight. Therefore, windows facing west and east are perfect for growing it. For a beautiful and even development of the crown, along with the formation, sometimes it is necessary to turn the plant in different directions.
Temperature
Optimal for keeping Aichrizon varies depending on the season. From March to early September, the thermometer should remain at a level of 20 to 25 ° C, that is, be moderate. In the case of hotter summer days, the plant needs to provide good access to fresh air, or even put it on a loggia or veranda in the garden, placing it in a place protected from wind and precipitation.
Wintering
In autumn and winter, in case of a lack of artificial lighting and the absence of phytolamps, it is better for Aichrizon to arrange a dormant period, reducing the temperature to 8 - 10 ° C. Such a measure avoids the loss of crown decorativeness due to disproportionate growth of stems and loss of leaves, and also, influencing the natural rhythms of the plant itself, contributes to a more lush and bright flowering in the next warm season.
Watering
Its frequency is closely related to the temperature of the surrounding air - the hotter it is around, the more frequent watering is needed. The easiest way to determine the right time for soil moisture is with a wooden stick placed in the ground: if the stick is dry to a length of 2 - 3 cm from the surface, then the plant should be watered.
Withered leaves that have lost their former elasticity and beauty can also speak of a strong lack of moisture. If the plant continues to live without watering, they will dry out, wrinkle and fall off, because Aichrizon, despite its unpretentiousness, is still not a cactus and does not approve of dry content. However, under conditions of summer humidity and temperature typical for the middle zone, the soil may not dry out to a critical degree for several weeks. It is also undesirable to flood the plant, because in this case the roots may begin to rot, and behind them the juicy stems themselves.
Humidity
Aichrizon does not need a high concentration of moisture in the air - the "tree of love" easily tolerates a dry room atmosphere and does not need additional spraying with water. The crown of the tree can occasionally be washed from dust and dirt under a warm shower, the main thing before such a procedure is to protect the soil in the pot from being washed out by water.
Crown formation
Succulents of Aichrizone species can grow in the form of a round or square bush. And it is also possible to get a miniature tree on the window. And in fact, and in another case, you have to do formative pruning. Maintaining the created outlines of the bush is not much easier. A trunk is planned for the future tree and cleaned of unnecessary shoots.
Maintaining any figure needs:
- The shoot growth point is in the tuft.
- Timely cleaning of weakened and old processes.
- Shortening branches knocked out along the length.
These works will have to be done throughout the growing season.
Common varieties
The genus includes about 15 species. As a houseplant, aichrizon is represented by the following varieties.
- Aichrizon is purified. Differs in shortened shoots. Most of the leaves are concentrated at their tips. The leaves grow closely, resembling pointed grapes in shape. The color is yellowish-green with a slight admixture of unexpressed red streaks. The surface is smooth, slightly sticky. Flowers are yellow, collected in large tassels.
- Aichrizon is home. Compact, spherical bush. Strong branching of shoots is characteristic. The leaves are dark in color, pubescent, gather in beautiful rosettes. Peduncles are long, multi-flowered inflorescences, different yellow shades. They have a pleasant smell.
- Aichrizon is prostrate. The bush is wide, rather large. Shoots are erect, covered with opposite leaves. The leaves are flattened, diamond-shaped, dark in color. Flowers are small, yellow.
- Aichrizon is meandering. The bush is round, low. Light leaves in the form of rhombuses sit on small petioles. Silvery leaf pubescence is characteristic. Flowering begins in May and lasts up to six months. The flowers are delicate beige.
- Aichrizon point. Stems are thin, reddish in color. The leaves are bright, pubescent, in the form of rhombuses. Abundant flowering.
Sign about aichrizon! It is believed that the flower attracts not only love, but also prosperity to the house. But giving a flower is not recommended - the donor may have financial problems. If you are given aichrizon, be sure to give a yellow coin in return.
Signs associated with the tree of love
- "The tree of love" Aichrizon is called because of the leaves, which resemble hearts. Although most of the light guides know it as a tree of happiness. It is believed that along with the launch of a cat, this plant is introduced into a new home. Signs indicate the presence of love and harmony in the place of good growth of this succulent.
- The bush is credited with the ability to pass through itself the negative energy present in the house. Protection from adversity and purification of the aura of the house are concentrated on it.
- On the other hand, the flower works as an indicator of the presence of well-being and happiness in the house. The more lush and spread out the branches, the longer the abundant flowering, the more positive emotions pass through this room, filling it with harmony and love.
Aichrizon wishes you happiness and love!
Temperature regime
In the summer period, the ambient air temperature for aichrizon is not of fundamental importance. It is preferable that it be within + 20-25 ⁰С. But in winter and autumn, the plant needs coolness. The air temperature at this time should be only + 8-10 ⁰С. In the conditions of a city apartment, a closed loggia can become a suitable room for this period. In its absence, the flower is placed on the windowsill, placing a piece of foam under the pot to reduce heating. If the room is too warm, aichrizon ("tree of love") takes on an elongated shape, becomes thin and begins to completely shed the foliage. Therefore, it is not recommended to place the flower very close to heating devices.
Description of the plant
A perennial plant from the Tolstyankovye family, in its natural environment it prefers the rocky terrain of the Mediterranean coast. Most often found on rocky slopes and in rock crevices. The root system is superficial, branched. Aichrizon flower is an evergreen succulent shrub up to 30 cm high.
A branchy, flexible, juicy, slightly curved stem is covered with a delicate greenish skin, it becomes woody only after many years. Sometimes the houseplant Aichrizon is used as a bonsai formation.
At the top of the stem and branches, a "crown" of leaves is formed, giving the bush a dome-shaped, spherical appearance. Bright green, emerald, gray-green, fleshy, fleecy leaves are collected in rosettes in pairs or in groups at the top of the branches. The shape of the leaves is varied - heart-shaped, triangular, rounded. Due to the similarity of the leaves to the heart, the plant is called the "tree of love". Often there are representatives with various color blotches in the leaf plate - white, red, yellow.
The flowering period is mid - late spring, and the home aichrizon is able to delight with flowers much longer, almost six months. Flowers are formed in groups on long branched peduncles (up to 20 cm). In shape, the flowers resemble a pointed chamomile or a star; color - golden or various shades of yellow. A star-shaped flower, up to 2 cm in diameter, has 6-12 pointed petals.
According to signs, aichrizon is able to bring happiness to its owner only if all the conditions for maintaining a compact bush are met. With insufficient care, due to damage to the leaf plate or trunk, the plant emits a clear liquid with a very unpleasant odor.
Since the plant is poisonous, if swallowed, it can cause a reaction in the body that resembles poisoning. In the apartment, you should choose a place for the plant that is inaccessible to children and pets.
Bloom
This action begins when Aichrizon reaches the age of two to three years, usually in spring, and can last up to six months or even longer. During this period, many leaves may fall off, an obsolete peduncle at the end also dies off. If Aichrizon, which has grown to such years, does not bloom, it is possible to keep it in more stringent conditions in the next period of winter dormancy by transplanting it into a closer container for a relatively cold and light wintering, observing a rare watering regime.
Aichrizon or Eonium?
In culture, a flower called aeonium is grown, which looks very much like aichrizon. These plants, belonging to the Fat family, are very often confused. And some growers even believe that these are names that mean the same thing. Indeed, aeonium and aichrizon are quite similar. But if you take a closer look, the difference between them is obvious.
Not only a professional botanist, but also an amateur florist can distinguish aichrizon (pictured on the left) from aeonium (pictured on the right)
Table: how to distinguish aichrizon from aeonium
Sign | Aichrizon | Aeonium |
Leaf blades | Arranged alternately. A dense edge is characteristic. | The color ranges from lime to almost black. Leaves are smooth, sessile (without petioles), collected in a dense flat or concave rosette, arranged in a spiral. |
Bloom | It blooms easily and abundantly at home. | "In captivity" rarely blooms. |
Stem | The stem is highly branched. Pubescent shoot. | The stem is lignified, rough, slightly branched, and in some species it is shortened. |
Bush formation
To enhance branching and create a pleasant-looking crown, Aichrizon is pruned. Like bonsai, with the help of pruning and patience, you can create almost any shape: a lush bush, a small tree, or just a green ball. In addition, pruning is used for medicinal purposes to return the flower to its natural beauty, for example, after a too warm winter, when the shoots can stretch too much, or after the loss of a large number of leaves. With this treatment, the shoots are shortened, and very thin and non-viable branches are also cut out.
Partners
Aichrizon quietly coexists with any houseplants. The only thing to consider is that it itself takes up quite a lot of space, therefore, space must be left between it and another plant so that they do not interfere with each other. In addition, if you put small plants nearby, the love tree can block its light.
The tree of love is a beautiful and not capricious plant, so it is not difficult to grow it. Aichrizon will perfectly decorate any room and will delight the owners with its dense foliage and bright flowers. And maybe it really will bring happiness to the house. Who knows?
Watch also a video on the topic: