Aeonium ‘Cyclops’

Aeonium ‘Cyclops’ is a stunning, architectural succulent for containers or mild gardens with good drainage. It forms a large, glossy rosette (up to 45cm across) of very dark reddish-purple, almost black, leaves with a distinctive, bright green centre—the “cyclops eye.” Growing up to 1 metre tall on thick stems, it creates a dramatic, shrub-like structure. It tolerates slightly lower temperatures than many Aeoniums but requires a well-draining, gritty compost and protection from hard frost and winter wet, ideally overwintering in a bright, cool, frost-free location like a conservatory or greenhouse. Water moderately during its main growing seasons (autumn and spring) and very little in summer dormancy.

Plant Type

Succulent

Aeonium ‘Cyclops’ is a succulent evergreen subshrub (a small shrub) with a branching habit, not a herbaceous perennial. It forms large, fleshy rosettes.

Mature Height

1.5m

The mature height of Aeonium ‘Cyclops’ is typically 4 to 5 feet tall (about 120 to 150 cm). This tall, evergreen succulent forms large, striking rosettes on branched, shrub-like stems. It also spreads 3 to 4 feet wide.

Light Requirements

Full sun to partial shade

Full sun exposure is key to improving the color of Aeonium ‘Cyclops’, which develops into deep reddish-bronze or purplish hues, and for reaching its large potential size of 1.2-1.5m (4-5 feet tall). If grown indoors, it needs bright, direct light near a south-facing window. Insufficient light can reduce the vibrant color.

Water Requirements

Moderate to frequent in growth period

The Aeonium ‘Cyclops’ requires deep, infrequent watering during its active growth in the cooler winter months, allowing the well-draining soil to completely dry between waterings. It enters dormancy in the hot, dry summer to survive the heat and drought, greatly reducing its water needs—it needs minimal to no water during this time to prevent root rot, as it ceases absorbing moisture and its leaves may curl or drop to conserve water.

Cold Hardiness

The ‘Aeonium Cyclops’ is a soft succulent with limited cold hardiness, best suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11.It can briefly tolerate temperatures as low as -4⁰C to -1⁰C, but only if kept extremely dry. Prolonged exposure to freezing or wet cold will cause the plant to rot. Winter Survival Tips: Bring Indoors: Grow in containers and move to a bright, frost-free location (e.g. a cool conservatory or south-facing window) before the first frost. Keep Dry: Significantly reduce or stop watering completely during cold periods to prevent fatal rot. Ensure Airflow: Good air circulation is vital, even indoors, to prevent dampness and fungal issues.