Native to Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, this evergreen herbaceous succulent is a charming low-growing ground cover. Its attractively oblong-shaped, slightly fuzzy narrow leaves form rosettes up to ten inches wide, which continually branch out from their base.

In winter, the succulent produces large pendant racemes of small, bright yellow flowers that attract bees. As A. simsii hails from a winter rainfall region, it benefits from bi-weekly watering when the soil is dry to promote flower production.

Although A. simsii can tolerate full sun, it dislikes extreme heat and may sustain significant damage if temperatures exceed 100°F (38°C) for extended periods. During such heatwaves, the plant benefits from shelter and bi-weekly watering. It thrives in sandy, well-drained soil that should always be allowed to dry out between waterings.

This charming perennial looks delightful as a ground cover in partially shaded rock gardens, particularly along borders or entryways. It also thrives as a container plant on patios or in well-lit indoor atriums.

Height: 8 inches
Width: 8 inches
Leaves: evergreen

Soil: light, well drained
pH: acid, alkaline, neutral
Exposure: sun or shade

Water: low water
Tolerance: drought tolerant, xeriscapic
Toxicity: not found

Cactus Jungle. (n.d.). Aeonium simsii. https://cactusjungle.com/plants/aeonium-simsii/

Plant Database. (n.d.). Aeonium simsii. https://garden.org/plants/view/117040/Aeonium-Aeonium-simsii/