Aichrizon tree of love. Aichrizon - succulent shoots of the tree of love

The indoor plant aichrizon has many distinctive properties, but its unusual name allows it to stand out from other plants. In the people, this flower is known as the "tree of love and happiness." This compact-sized shrub is usually attributed to the Crassulaceae family, which in adulthood have a diameter of 20-30 cm and a height of up to 30 cm.

IN vivo most often it can be found in rock crevices. Its habitual habitats are the Canary Islands, as well as the island of Madeira. One species each grows in Portugal and Morocco. However, in general, the genus Aichrizona includes approximately 15 species.

Description

The original form of aichrizon is given by the shape of its leaves. This part of the plant is succulent, has a fleshy structure of dark green color with signs of pubescence. They are covered with white short hairs resembling a fur coat. Because of original form leaflets that are more like hearts, aichrizon and acquired names - "Tree of Love" and "Tree of Happiness".

A feature of the venerable stems, which have a straight or slightly curved shape, is that even over time they do not woody. In addition, they form a large number of branches in a natural way. Therefore, it is not necessary to carry out special operations, for example, pinching. Small leaves of a round-ovate or fusiform shape, having a regular arrangement, with signs of pubescence, are presented in the form of rosettes growing on the tops of the stems.

Quite diverse is the color of the leaves, which includes all shades of green. interspersed with white, gray, red and yellow. Any damage done to leaf blades causes them to emit an unpleasant odor. Aichrizon is one of the popular indoor plants that blooms in April or May. The flowers have the form of a shield or panicle, which attract attention not only with a star-shaped shape, but also color design, including shades such as red, yellow and cream. At the first sign of completion of flowering, the rosette from which the peduncle was formed dies off.

Conditions for growing and caring for aichrizon

As with growing any houseplant, the love tree flower also needs to be given proper care in order for it to thank you with bright flowers.

Lighting

Favorable conditions for the development of an aichrizon flower can be created if bright diffused lighting is provided to it. This can be achieved by hanging gauze or a tulle curtain on the window. The flower itself is recommended to be kept on the western or eastern side of the house. The south window is not quite suitable, because here it bright sunlight can damage that can cause burns. Therefore, in order to avoid their appearance, artificial shading is necessary. In order for the bushes to grow evenly on all sides, it is necessary to turn the flower pot from time to time.

Temperature

Aichrizon is not too picky about temperature regime. In spring and summer, in the room where it grows, you need to maintain a temperature of 20-25 degrees. In autumn and winter, temperatures of 8-10 degrees are sufficient. With increased thermal mode the plant feels uncomfortable, which leads to stretching of shoots and falling leaves. To avoid such phenomena, it is recommended to keep the flower away from heating appliances.

Watering

So that this indoor plant does not experience a moisture deficit, you need to monitor the state of turgor of leaves and shoots. You can understand whether a plant needs watering if you lightly press on the crown with your palm. If the plate seems sluggish, then the plant needs watering. If the feeling is springy, then you can wait a little with the next irrigation.

If, with a long delay in watering, immediately saturate the substrate big amount moisture, it may lead to root rot th and grounds for escapes. To avoid such watering should be moderate: in the spring and summer they are carried out regularly, and reduced in cold weather. Seeing that the leaves have begun to wither and wrinkle, know that this is a clear sign of a lack of moisture.

Humidity

This factor is not decisive in the cultivation of aichrizon, since it can grow comfortably in dry air conditions. The flower responds positively to regular warm showers, which should be carried out periodically. However, this procedure is only recommended during active growth. When aichrizon is at rest, it is better to neglect such a measure.

top dressing

In the spring and summer, fertilizers are applied to the soil once every two weeks. During flowering, plants spend a lot of energy, so they need to replenish nutrients. It is best to carry out top dressing with complex fertilizers for succulents containing minimum amount of nitrogen.

pruning

To date, aichrizon can be grown in two main forms: bush or standard tree, which has previously removed branches on the trunk. For getting beautiful crown it is necessary to remove all weak branches and sprinkle the tops of young shoots. This procedure is carried out throughout the entire period of plant growth. If the winter turned out to be warm enough, then this also affects the development of this houseplant, which begins to stretch and deform. In such situations, he especially needs pruning. Although an alternative option is also possible - rooting cuttings.

Bloom

Samples at the age of 2-3 years begin to bloom only if the winter turned out to be cool and bright, and the plant itself is grown under conditions of rare watering in a cramped pot. Flowering lasts quite a long time approximately 6 months, and during it the flower can lose up to 80% of foliage. At the end of flowering, you need to prune the peduncles, and then increase the watering. If this houseplant has lost much more leaves, then pruning and old shoots may be required.

Transfer

Sometimes in the fall you have to transplant aichrizon, but for this you need to understand if there is a need for this. You can find out by whether there is just free space in the root pot. Since aichrizon has a shallow root system, it is advisable to transplant it into shallow containers or planters. A new container can be filled with soil of any composition. It can also be a mixture made from sand and sod land. It can also be replaced with a substrate for which the following components are used:

• sod land;
• leaf land;
• humus land;
• sand.

These components must be taken in a ratio of 4: 1: 1: 1. Also pieces of coal or brick chips will also be useful in the substrate.

Before planting, the bottom of the pot needs fill with good drainage. After transplantation, it is necessary to maintain a "dry mode" for four to five days. After that, they begin to carefully carry out watering. At first, you need to spend a small amount of water, trying to avoid rotting of the root system. The most suitable container for growing aichrizon are clay pots, which have a porous and breathable structure.

Aichrizon varieties may differ in flowering time. If during the season for the plant were created all the necessary conditions, then its flowers open in April-May. Proper care of the plant is a guarantee that for at least six months it will decorate the ground with red or yellow paniculate flowers. During the flowering time, more than half of the foliage volume falls off in aichrizon.

The main method of propagation of a houseplant love tree is cuttings. This is done in the spring, and the seedlings need a minimum of time to root when planted in loose earth. Too frequent watering leads to the fact that leaves shrivel and turn yellow. The roots, which rot over time, do not feel better either. To ensure uniform growth of leaves and flowers, it is necessary to periodically turn the container with the flower in all directions.

For aichrizon, bright lighting and moderate watering are very important. In this case, he will be able to maintain green foliage for many months. In this regard, it is appropriate to recall popular belief: the more leaves, the more love in the house.

Reproduction of aichrizon at home

For breeding a flower, you can use the method of sowing seeds and cuttings. Sowing seeds is carried out in shallow bowls, where you need to pour a mixture prepared from 1 part leaf ground and 0.5 parts of sand. At the stage of growing seedlings, it is necessary to carry out spraying and ventilation. Moreover, containers with crops should always be with closed glass.

As a rule, the seeds begin to germinate after two weeks. Seedling pick carried out in common boxes, where the seedlings are placed no closer than 1 cm from each other. Then the seedlings need to be placed as close as possible to the light source. During picking, a slightly different composition of planting soil is used, for which the following components are taken:

• light sod land (0.5 parts);
• leaf ground (1 part);
• sand (0.5 parts).

All components for the preparation of the soil mixture are taken in a ratio of 1: 1: 1.

Over time, when the seedlings get stronger, they are transplanted, placing one plant at a time, into compact pots with a diameter of 5-7 cm. After germination, caring for them requires maintaining a temperature of 16-18 degrees and regular watering.

If the love tree is bred by cuttings, then they are first kept in a dry, dark place for two to three hours so that they dry well. Cuttings root best in containers filled with damp sand, vermiculite, or a mixture of succulent substrate and sand. After the cuttings take root, they need transfer to separate containers with a diameter of 57 cm. For the soil, the same components are taken as for seedlings. Similar is the care of the tree of love.

Difficulties in growing aichrizon

Exists Group external signs , on the basis of which one can easily understand that the tree of love feels uncomfortable:

Conclusion

Aichrizon is quite rare exotic plant. However, even this fact does not prevent experienced flower growers from growing it at home. This plant provides certain features for growing at home, so first you need read the main terms and conditions, during the creation of which aichrizon will feel most comfortable.

Watering is especially important for the plant, which should be regular. If the plant remains without water for a long time, and then water the ground abundantly, this can lead to new problems - root rot.

Aichrizon is an undemanding evergreen with pretty flowers. Dense, as if carved from stone leaves invariably attract attention. It is not difficult to grow a succulent at home, even a novice grower can take care of it.

Description of the "tree of love"

Origin and appearance of aichrizon

Aichrizon is a typical representative of the Crassula family, extremely similar to the well-known crassula (aka "money tree"). The only uncharacteristic feature is the fragility of rather strong-looking stems. The name is formed by combining two Greek words: ai, meaning "always", "forever", and chrysos, which means "golden" in translation. Most likely, it is associated with a long and abundant flowering(flowers in most species of Aichrizon are sunny yellow). The genus is not numerous: fifteen of its representatives are currently known.

In nature, the habitat of the aichrizon is rather limited - it is the coast of North and North-West Africa (Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria), as well as the islands beyond the Strait of Gibraltar (Canary, Azores archipelago, Madeira). Some species are also found in Europe (on the coast of Portugal).

Succulents can be annual or perennial, herbaceous or semi-shrub.

The conditions in the historical homeland of Aichrizon are quite harsh. The soil is poor, rocky. Most of the year the plant is under the hot sun. Rainfall minimum. Therefore, aichrizon, like other succulents, stores water and nutrients in fleshy leaves (they look like stuffed pads) and stems.

In order for the "usable area" to be larger, the aichrizon branches intensively, its stems almost never woody. Bright green or lettuce leaves are collected in rosettes at the tops of the shoots. Olive, yellowish, reddish brown and whitish blotches fit into the norm. The leaves may be smooth or slightly hairy. Villi are another natural mechanism for regulating water balance. Broken leaves of the plant smell rather unpleasant.

In shape, the leaves of aichrizon are similar to hearts, hence the popular name - “tree of love”. But this is how the flower is called only in Russian-speaking countries. In the rest of the world, this nickname belongs to another houseplant - cersis (crimson).

The roots of aichrizon, like all succulents, are not too developed, thin. In nature, the plant is forced to cling to the smallest cracks in the rocks, hiding between them. This is the only way to find at least some shade.

Flowering only adds decorativeness. The buds are collected in rosettes or shields. The flowers are small, like stars. The petals are bright yellow and with shades of cream, vanilla, reddish. Flowering begins in April or May, lasts almost six months. At the end of it, the rosette that released the peduncle dries up.

Compactness is another advantage of the plant. Both in nature and at home, aichrizon rarely grows above 40 cm. The crown diameter is 25–30 cm.

According to signs, aichrizon is a guarantor of peace and prosperity in the house, the preservation of love. Therefore, the plant is often given to newlyweds, new settlers or spouses celebrating the next wedding anniversary. A reliable indicator of the “weather in the house” is the regularity and duration of flowering of aichrizon.

Species diversity of succulents

At home, of all the already small genus of aichrizons, only some perennials have taken root:

• The most popular plant among flower growers, a breeding hybrid. "Parents" - aichrizon is winding and dotted. The height of the plant approximately coincides with the diameter of the crown and ranges from 20 to 30 cm. The leaves are small (length - 1.5–2 cm, width - 0.8–1 cm), shaped like pinheads. The edge of short and sparse white hairs is characteristic. The length of the peduncle is 15–20 cm, the flowers are bright yellow. What is atypical for the species, they have a pronounced aroma. There is a variegated variety.
• Very intensively branching shrub, growing more up than sideways. At a height of 35–40 cm, the crown diameter rarely exceeds 15 cm. The leaves are slightly sticky to the touch, salad or yellowish in color. Under bright sun a pattern of thin reddish lines appears. Rosette diameter - about 8 cm, leaf length - up to 1.5 cm, width - up to 6 cm. Inflorescences are found in the form of a panicle or brush, golden yellow flowers. At home, it reacts most strongly to excessive watering. During the dormant period, it can become significantly bald. Flowering rarely lasts more than 2 months.
• BUT ichrizonloose or spread. The height of the shrub is up to 40 cm, the diameter of the crown is up to 30 cm. The leaves are shaped like rhombuses with rounded corners, located on long petioles. Leaf length - 2.5-3 cm, width - 1 cm. Flowering is very abundant - brushes can reach a length of 15-20 cm. Flowers are cream or yellowish. After flowering, the plant loses most of its green mass, but does not die.
• Creeping succulent. At a height of 15–20 cm, the crown reaches a diameter of 30–40 cm. The leaves are covered with short and sparse villi, petioles are practically absent. The length of the leaf is 1.5–2 cm, the width is 1 cm. Strong branching and compactness make it possible to form a bonsai from it. This species blooms earlier than the others.
• Height - 25–30 cm. Khaki shoots are densely covered with almost transparent long hairs. On the leaves, the edge is less, but also present. The petioles of the leaves are long, the edges are decorated with very small teeth.

Photo gallery: What are the aichrizons?

Aichrizon sedum is distinguished by an unusual color of the leaves.
Aichrizon loose during the flowering period looks very decorative Aichrizon sinuous forms a continuous mass of rosettes and shoots in a pot. Aichrizon dotted has bright, eye-pleasing leaves. Aichrizon homemade is the most famous breeding hybrid

Table: Microclimate for keeping a flower

At home, aichrizon learned to survive in extreme conditions. Therefore, "in captivity" he is very unpretentious. But flowering occurs only if the plant is provided with the right microclimate.

If it is not possible to place aichrizon in winter period on an unheated loggia, in a greenhouse, winter garden or other place with a suitable temperature, place it as close as possible to the window, placing some heat-insulating material under the pot (for example, a piece of foam). This will protect the roots from the heat coming from the batteries located under the windowsill.

How to repot a houseplant?

right time

IN optimal conditions Aichrizon grows quite quickly, so he needs a transplant every 2-3 years. During this time, the flower manages to tightly braid the roots of an earthen ball. The procedure is carried out in early spring, before the plant "wakes up" after winter rest.

Soil and pot selection

Since the root system is superficial and relatively undeveloped, a pot in the form of a bowl is suitable for an aichrizon. A very large container is not suitable, increase the diameter by a maximum of 5 cm, 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 stagnation of water and the development of rot.

Aichrizon is planted in the ground 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, large 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 earth, fertile turf, sand or fine expanded clay (2:2:2:1);
• soil from the garden the best way- 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 transplanting aichrizon:

1. Cover the bottom of the pot with expanded clay or other material with similar properties, creating a layer about 2 cm thick. Add the same amount of fresh substrate on top. Lightly moisten the soil.
2. Remove the plant from the pot, cut off dead rosettes and dried shoots with a sharp clean knife. Powder the slices activated carbon, crushed chalk, colloidal sulfur. Do the same with rotten and dried roots.
3. Leave aichrizon outdoors for 1-2 days.
4. Place the plant in a new pot, add soil. It is not necessary to crush it strongly, it is better to shake the container a couple of times so that the soil is evenly distributed and there are no voids left.
5. Remove the flower in partial shade. Water the plant for the first time 5-6 days after transplanting. Then return to its original place and resume watering carefully. During the first month, you need to moisten the earth moderately so as not to cause rot.

Succulent care at home

Watering

Starting from April, aichrizon is watered regularly, but not too plentifully. Between waterings, the soil should dry up to half the depth of the pot. In order not to delve into it every time, look at the leaves. Aichrizon needs moisture when they lose their tone, wrinkles appear on the surface, density and elasticity disappear. It is usually enough to water the flower once every 4-6 days, if it is not very hot outside.

Abundant and frequent watering is a sure way to ruin the plant. But the flower grower's forgetfulness will be transferred relatively painlessly.

To stimulate the growth of green mass, a warm shower (30–35 ° C) is shown. The procedure during the active growing season is carried out every 7-10 days. The plant is watered for 3-5 minutes. Then it must be left in the bath until the drops on the leaves are completely dry.

Succulents are very sensitive to the hardness of the liquid. If it is not possible to constantly water them with melt or rain water, add a few drops to the tap water. apple cider vinegar or crystals citric acid. This neutralizes chlorine, fluorine, calcium compounds that precipitate from grayish flakes.

Fertilization

During the active growing season, the flower is watered every 2-3 weeks with a solution of a special fertilizer for cacti and succulents. If you can not find such top dressing, it is better not to make anything at all. These products differ from universal fertilizers by a very low nitrogen content, which aichrizon, like other succulents, strongly dislikes.

rest period

The plant has a pronounced dormant period. The faded aichrizon is removed to a well-ventilated bright room, in which a constant temperature of 8-10 ° C is maintained. Top dressing is not applied, the shower is stopped, watering is replaced by spraying the soil every 10–12 days.

What to do when the plant begins to bloom?

Flowering in almost all types of aichrizon lasts about 6 months. Plants obtained from cuttings at home bloom in the second or third year after rooting.

Mandatory conditions for flowering:

• suitable in size, not too spacious pot;
• the right temperature and enough light in winter;
• rare watering.

If leaves fall after flowering (in some cases, the plant may lose up to 60–80% of its green mass), this is normal.

There is an opinion that after flowering, aichrizon will certainly die, but this is not so. Therefore, there is no need to cut flower stalks.

How to cut and pinch to form a crown?

In nature, aichrizon is a sprawling shrub. But regular pruning can turn it into a kind of tree. To do this, during intensive growth, the tops of newly formed shoots are pinched by 2-3 cm, and the weakest and unsuccessfully located branches are promptly disposed of.

If the plant has lost its shape after a period of rest in unsuitable conditions, it is better to cut and root the cuttings, and not waste time trying to restore its former decorative effect.

Table: Leaves turn yellow, shrink, fall off - typical grower mistakes

It is very difficult to ruin aichrizon, given the conditions to which the plant is accustomed to at home. But its decorativeness from inept actions can suffer significantly.

Video: How to grow aichrizon at home?

Table: Diseases and pests

Possible methods of reproduction

Growing succulents from seeds

Aichrizon seeds ripen with artificial cross-pollination of several simultaneously flowering bushes. At home, this rather time-consuming method of reproduction is rarely used.

1. Fill the containers with a 2:1 mixture of universal potting soil for flowering houseplants and sand, level the soil, lightly moisten the substrate.
2. Sow the seeds as evenly as possible. Do not cover with soil on top.
3. Cover the containers with glass or polyethylene film, provide a temperature of about 25 ° C and bright diffused light, ideally bottom heating. Ventilate the plantings daily, spray the dried substrate from the spray bottle.
4. 2–3 weeks after germination, plant seedlings in boxes filled with a mixture of leafy, soddy soil and sand (2:2:1), leaving 1–1.5 cm between plants and rows. Set up the containers so that the aichrizons receive as much light as possible.
5. After 2-3 months, once again transplant the plants into individual pots. The substrate is prepared from the same components, but combined in equal proportions. Remove for a week in a place with a temperature of 18-20 ° C, water very moderately every day. Carry out regular care afterward.

Aichrizon cuttings

Rooting cuttings - the most affordable way obtaining a new aichrizon at home. Planting material is taken only from perfectly healthy plants. The optimal cutting length is 7–8 cm (no more than 10 cm). It is advisable to cut upper part escape along with the socket.

1. Sprinkle the slices with crushed chalk, activated charcoal or colloidal sulfur. Let the cuttings lie down for 2-3 hours in a dark and dry cool place.
2. Fill small containers with a mixture of succulent soil and sand, perlite or vermiculite (1:1). Moisten the substrate. It is possible to root cuttings in water with the addition of a root formation stimulator or activated carbon powder (every 2-3 days the liquid is changed).
3. Create the same conditions for cuttings as for germinating seeds.
4. When the roots appear (usually after 20-30 days), plant the aichrizons in individual pots. The soil is a mixture of leafy, soddy soil and sand. Take care as usual.
5. Next spring, transplant the plants again into the substrate for adult flowers.

Cuttings are cut either immediately before the dormant period, or at its very end.

Video: How to root flower cuttings?

Aichrizon got its name for the original leaves that look like hearts. For flower lovers, it is a symbol of happiness and love, for true flower growers - interesting plant to complete the collection. Caring for aichrizon at home does not take much time - it is an easy-to-care, unpretentious flower.

perennial succulent evergreen. The bush is low, rounded. In height usually does not exceed 30 cm. The root system is superficial, branched. In nature, it prefers rocky terrain - it settles between stones, on cliffs.

The stems are flexible, bright green, strongly branched. Only very old, perennial shoots become woody. The leaves are small, plump, with pubescence. Grouped at the ends of the stems. The color is green, sometimes interspersed with different shades. The form depends on the type. When damaged, the leaves and stems secrete juice with an unpleasant odor.

Aichrizon blooms with small asterisk flowers collected in panicles. Peduncle middle length, branches. The flowers are yellow or cream, rarely red. Each flower consists of 6-12 petals. The formation of a peduncle and buds takes a lot of strength from the plant. Regardless of the quality of care, along with the peduncle, after the flowering phase, a partial death of the shoot occurs.

Important! The sap of the plant contains toxic substances. Ingestion can cause severe poisoning. It is not recommended to keep the flower in an apartment with small children and pets. As a last resort, remove the plant in a place inaccessible to them!

Common varieties

About 15 species are included in the genus. As a houseplant, aichrizon is represented by the following varieties.

• Aichrizon stonecrop. Differs in shortened shoots. The main part of the leaves is concentrated at their tips. The leaves grow closely, shaped like pointed grapes. The color is yellowish-green with a slight admixture of unexpressed red streaks. The surface is smooth and slightly sticky. The flowers are yellow, collected in large tassels.
• Aichrizon home. Compact, spherical bush. Strong branching of the shoots is characteristic. The leaves are dark in color, pubescent, going into beautiful rosettes. Peduncles are long, inflorescences many-flowered, different yellow shades. They have a pleasant smell.
  
• Aichrizon prostrate. The bush is wide, rather large. Shoots erect, covered with opposite leaves. The leaves are flattened, rhomboid, dark in color. Flowers are small, yellow.
  
• Aichrizon is sinuous. The bush is rounded, low. light leaves in the form of rhombuses sit on small petioles. Silvery pubescence of leaves is characteristic. Flowering begins in May, lasts up to six months. Flowers are delicate beige.
  
• Aichrizon spot. The stems are thin, reddish in color. The leaves are bright, pubescent, in the form of rhombuses. Flowering is plentiful.
  

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.

Features of cultivation and care

An unpretentious flower, grows well in conditions of minimal care. Complete care increases decorativeness, stimulates long-term, lush flowering.

• Site selection and lighting. Choose well-lit places, protected from the sun. The fleshy leaves are easy to get sunburn. It is recommended to give preference to the western or eastern side. For a uniform density of the bush, it is periodically substituted with the other side to the light. In winter, the need for lighting is higher.
• Temperature. In the summer season, it prefers heat - up to 25 ° C. Further increase is undesirable. In winter, move to cool - about 10 ° C. Warm wintering leads to stretching of shoots, leaf fall. Do not place near working batteries.
• Watering. In warm weather, in the phase of intensive growth and flowering, regular, moderate watering is adhered to. Control the condition of the soil - before the next watering, it should dry out by half. Excess water is harmful - the roots begin to rot. In winter, the need for moisture is lower. Water rarely, the need for watering is determined by the state of the plant. Lightly press on the crown of the plant with the palm of your hand - if it springs, there is still enough moisture.
• Humidity. Neutral plant in relation to air humidity. The flower is not sprayed. Bathe occasionally in the summer warm shower to wash the dust off the leaves. It is not recommended to do this during the cold season.
• The soil. Any general-purpose store-bought potting mix will work. You can take the usual garden soil with the addition of sand. The addition of coal is welcome, not a large number well-rotted humus.
• Transfer. Annual. Transplanted in the spring before the start of active growth. If the earth ball is not completely covered with roots, the transplant can be skipped. Pots are used low, a quarter filled with drainage. After transplantation, they refrain from watering for a week.
• Top dressing. In the growth phase twice a month. Use products for succulents. The main requirement is a minimum of nitrogen in the composition.

Advice! There are several ways to form an aichrizon. Amateur flower growers often leave it in the form of a compact bush. Experienced flower growers formed in the form of a small tree. To form an even tree, it is recommended to regularly pinch off weak shoots, cut the tops of young ones.

Reproduction methods

Aichrizon is propagated by sowing seeds and cuttings. Both methods give good results.

• Seeds. Seeds are sown in spring to a depth of 5 mm. Boxes are used as a container, soil is a mixture of peat or leafy soil with sand. Watering is replaced by spraying from a spray bottle. Germinate under film or glass at a temperature not lower than 16°C. Optimum temperature— 20°C. The greenhouse is ventilated daily, the film is removed only after the emergence of shoots. Moisturize as needed. Seed germination is good, the first sprouts appear by the end of the second week. Pick in separate pots at the stage of 3-4 true leaves. For the splendor of the bush, several seedlings are planted in one pot.
• cuttings. Optimal time for cuttings - March-April. Cut cuttings 8-9 cm long, dry for at least 24 hours. Rooted in two ways - in water or soil. For rooting in water, they take only boiled water, add crushed coal to it (1-2 tablets). After the roots appear, they are transplanted into the soil for succulents.

Advice! All parts of the plant are capable of rooting. If the plant is still too young to cut cuttings from it, break off a leaf and press it into the moist soil. Literally in 1-2 weeks, the formation of roots will begin.

The main difficulties of growing

The main problem of aichrizon is rot. They are caused by excessive moisture in the soil. Rot affects the base of the shoots and the root system. If the plant begins to rot, it is better to plant the cutting immediately in case the flower dies. A diseased plant is transplanted into new ground, after removing the affected parts. In addition to rot, you may encounter the following problems.

Aichrizon is a beautiful and fairly common plant. It looks good in the form of a bush and a tree, retains its decorative effect all year round.

There are very few indoor plants about which their beliefs and legends are composed. The love tree is one of them. It is believed that it will bring good luck in personal life under certain conditions. What? Find out right now.

Aichrizon is a houseplant, the succulent grows no more than 30-35 cm in height. Grows widely, thanks to which it can be grown as beautiful shrub. Belongs to the Tolstyankovye family.

An interesting feature of the stems- they are very dense, fleshy and at the same time they are never covered with a woody layer. Instead, they have a slight white pubescence - this creates a pleasant effect of a fur coat. The stems are most often straight or slightly curved.

The foliage is dense, leathery, small size. The color is very diverse: there are both light and dark green tones. Often there are patterned spots of brown, white, red or pale yellow. . The plant blooms with beautiful yellow or reddish flowers. It also drops a lot of leaves. Interestingly, if the surface of the sheet is damaged, an unpleasant odor will appear.

The homeland of the plant is a tropical area: Portugal, North Africa, the Azores and the Canaries. That is why the flower is rather thermophilic, very fond of light and sufficient humidity. At the same time, caring for him will not take much time.

Aichrizon - indoor plant, succulent grows no more than 30-35 cm in height

The tree of love in folk omens

Much is associated with the tree of love. popular beliefs and will accept, which are most common in our country and neighboring countries. Here are some of them:

1. It is believed that the flower very subtly feels what kind of psychological atmosphere reigns in the family. For example, if it develops rapidly and feels good, blooms beautifully, then there is complete harmony in the relationship, and the family lives well.
2. If leaves often fall from it, they quickly wither, and in general the tree grows slowly, which means that conflicts often occur at home, and negative energy also affects the plant. You should try to change the strategy of behavior, otherwise aichrizon may completely die for no apparent reason.
3. A love tree can be given to anyone, but this gift will be especially significant for newlyweds. It is believed that such a present will bring happiness and harmony in the relationship of the young to the family.
4. And if aichrizon bloomed in a bachelor's house, this is a clear sign that he will soon meet his soul mate, and this time the acquaintance will certainly turn into strong family relationships.
5. Finally, if a person has just started a relationship and the tree of love has blossomed, this again indicates that everything will work out, and this acquaintance can be confidently developed. If, on the contrary, aichrizon began to fade, this is a warning: perhaps you have chosen a candidate that is not quite suitable for yourself.

Gallery: tree of love (25 photos)

Features of growing a tree of love (video)

Description of the types of tree of love

Aichrizon gives more than 15 types of shrubs. They are annual, but often perennial. Several species are cultivated in culture, the most common are presented below.

Aichrichon sinuous

This is a small shrub that reaches approximately the same parameters in height and width - 20-30 cm. It has quite interesting leaves- in appearance they resemble rhombuses, fleshy, with a rich green color. They have a layer of white pubescence.

This species begins to bloom in mid-spring.; and flowering can last almost the entire warm season.

Aichrichon sinuous

Aichrizon loose

This type of tree of love is also called prostrate aichrizon. They have an interesting light green leaf color. If possible, then in the summer it is better to grow it on balcony plant loves fresh air, willow in such conditions begins to develop much faster than on the windowsill.

Inflorescences form a lot in the form of bunches. The leaves of this species are smooth or slightly pubescent.

Aichrizon loose

Aichrizon home

Shrub of typical size with interesting foliage coloration: a dark green heartwood with a pale yellow edging create a beautiful contrast. Leaves oblong, small size and look very elegant.

During the flowering period, it forms yellow flowers that exude a pleasant, unobtrusive aroma.

Aichrizon home

Aichrizon stonecrop

This is a very interesting shrub, which is characterized by thick, vigorous growth of leaves. The twigs grow quite high for this species - up to 40 cm. The leaves are thick, collected in rosettes. They are oblong in shape. It blooms with beautiful bright yellow flowers.

A distinctive feature of the species is that it does not have white pubescence on the stems. When growing stonecrop aichrizon, it should be taken into account that he especially does not like excess moisture - you need to carefully monitor the amount of watering.

Aichrizon stonecrop

Aichrizon spot

This type of love tree grows up to 40 cm in height. The leaves have a typical forest green color; in shape they resemble small rhombuses. At the same time, the shoots themselves are dark green shades with brown tones. It blooms with beautiful bright yellow flowers.

Aichrizon spot

Reproduction of aichrizon

The tree of love can be propagated by cuttings and leaves. . In both cases, the technology is approximately the same:

1. The stem or leaf is cut off sharp knife; the incision should have a maximum cross-sectional area (for this you need to make it at an acute angle).
2. The cut off part remains for half a day in darkness without soil and water - it needs to be dried a little.
3. Then it can be immediately planted in a new pot. Wet, fine-grained sand or special soil for succulents is selected, which also needs to be well moistened.
4. When 2-3 leaves appeared, the shoot is transplanted into the soil, consisting of leafy and soddy soil (in equal mass quantities), as well as sand, which is taken half as much.

Important! The first weeks after rooting, you need to provide good soil moisture and a lot of light. When the shoot finally grows (after 1 month), you can water and care for it as usual.

How to prune a love tree (video)

Planting and transplanting a love tree into a flower pot

Transplantation of the tree of love is done only in the warm period. It is done as needed. In the case of a young plant, the frequency can be once every 1-2 years; adult aichrizons are transplanted no more than once every 4 years.

Pots are always selected small and shallow, since the roots of the tree are located in the surface layer. The soil is chosen typical for succulents or compiled independently on the basis of equal quantities:

• peat;
• leaf land;
• sod land.

You can add a little fine-grained sand to the mixture, and it is advisable to drain the bottom with pebbles.

The tree of love can be propagated by cuttings

Airizone care at home

Caring for a love tree is not difficult. It is important to simply take into account a few rules regarding the microclimate, illumination and soil fertilization regime.

Humidity, temperature, lighting

In dry times, wash the foliage weekly under a warm shower.(The temperature should be comfortable for the hand). In winter and autumn, this cannot be done, since this can bring aichrizon out of hibernation and bring down the natural biorhythms of the plant. It is not necessary to spray the plant - it is better to just monitor watering and increase the frequency in dry times.

According to the temperature regime, the tree of love has no special requirements. The same temperature as a person is enough for him. In winter, the plant quite calmly tolerates even more low temperatures(12-15 o C). At the same time, in winter, it is desirable to provide just such a temperature for a tree of love. The only thing that is important to monitor is drafts and strong daily fluctuations, which have a detrimental effect on plant tissues.

The tree of love is quite light-loving, but it does not tolerate prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially on hot summer days. To combine these seemingly contradictory requirements, you can hang a light tulle or gauze on the window - then the rays will shine somewhat diffusely, and this is the best option for aichrizon.

Important! Periodically (once a week), the pot with the tree needs to be turned so that all the leaves get required amount Sveta. Also, this measure contributes to uniform growth in all directions.

The tree of love is quite light-loving, but it does not tolerate prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Watering and feeding the tree of love

Like many other succulents, Aichrizon is not very picky about temperature and humidity. He does not like too frequent moisturizing and tolerates well. prolonged absence soil water. The reason is in the dense shells of the leaves, which reliably retain almost all the moisture inside the plant.

You need to water in this mode:

• in summer once a week;
• in winter 1-2 times a month.

In general, you need to ensure that the soil is not cracked from dryness, but at the same time not too wet. If you flood the plant with water, then the roots will begin to rot, because of which the tree of love can get sick. It is easy to navigate by the state of the plant itself: if the leaves are elastic, in good shape, then it is better to skip the next watering.

The tree of love loves fertilizer only during the period when it is actively growing - this is spring and summer. Special feeding should be applied for succulents with low concentrations of organic nitrogen-containing substances. Feeding regimen - twice a month along with watering. In autumn and spring, when aichrizon is preparing for a quiet period, it is better not to disturb the plant.

Aichrizon is not very picky about temperature and humidity

Pinching and trimming

At proper care the tree begins to grow very quickly and give many new shoots, so without timely pruning not enough.

The pruning technology depends on the form in which you intend to grow your pet:

• in the form of a tree with a dense spherical crown;
• in the form of a lush shrub.

The first option will take longer - you need to constantly pinch the top shoots trying to keep them all on the same level. But the result is worth it - it turns out a beautiful, neat tree that fits perfectly into the design of the room.

In the second case, you need to remove weak leaves and shoots. cutting them off with a sharp knife.

Important! It is important to carry out all pruning procedures only during the period of active plant growth. Do not do this in autumn, winter, and also during flowering.

With proper care, the tree begins to grow very quickly and give many new shoots.

indoor plant flowering

The tree of love begins to bloom in mid-spring, when the length of daylight hours increases significantly. Its beautiful yellow or red flowers are located on inflorescences in the form of panicles or corymbs. The shape is reminiscent of small stars; look very elegant and romantic.

In order for flowering to occur, you need to take into account several important points:

1. Watering should be done as little as possible. Of course, it should be sufficient. You can navigate by the elastic state of the leaves.
2. Wintering of aichrizon should take place in a fairly cool and well-lit place (it is desirable that the temperature be from 12 to 15 ° C).
3. The pot must be small in size - in too spacious containers, the tree of love will not be able to pick up color. You need to navigate by the size of the roots, taking into account the fact that they do not grow too fast; mainly goes into growth above-ground part tree of love.

During the flowering phase, aichrizon sheds more than half of its leaves - this is normal, so you should not think that it is associated with poor care conditions and start actively watering or feeding the flower.

How the tree of love breeds (video)

After the flowers begin to noticeably fade, you should start restorative measures:

1. Cut off all semi-withered, weak leaves.
2. Increase watering, focusing on the elasticity of the foliage.
3. Feed the plant according to the scheme described above.
4. Loosen the soil so that air enters the roots - this will help the love tree begin a new phase of growth.

It is very easy to grow a love tree at home. As a typical succulent, Aichrizon does not have any special requirements. And he creates a rather beautiful view, and it will be very pleasant to receive such a flower for a loved one, friend or other relative.

Estimate

What does it look like. Aichrizon home or love tree is probably one of the most attractive ornamental foliage plants with large oval dark green leaves, densely pubescent on both sides. Its many slender, forked branches bear spoon-shaped leaves on short petioles. The leaves form rosettes at the ends of the stem. The inflorescences are branched, rising high above the foliage, star-shaped flowers appear in the center of the rosette of numerous pubescent buds, the petals are lemon yellow. The plant loses foliage and may even die after flowering. The color of the leaves varies depending on the exposure to sunlight. In the shade they are green, and in direct sunlight they become brownish green or khaki. There are variegated varieties with white stripes along the edge of the sheet.

Height. Up to 50 cm tall.

1. Aichrizon - home care

1.1. Reproduction

The plant remains ornamental only for 1 - 2 years, but produces abundant self-sowing after flowering. Propagation by cuttings is quite easy - rooting occurs within 2 to 4 weeks. Small cuttings take root in spring or summer, after preliminary drying of the cut site for several hours. Take shoots 8 - 10 cm long, cut off the lower leaves and plant them in slightly moist soil from equal parts peat, moss and coarse sand or perlite. Provide bright light and sufficient watering. Rooting will take three to four weeks. Seeds are sown in moist and nutritious soil under a glass cover - in the spring. The crops are aired daily and sprayed if necessary.

1.2.How to care, trim

A fast growing plant, but the lower part of the stem tends to become bare with age. This succulent is easy to care for. Timely removal of inflorescences will help prevent leaf fall and increase the lifespan of the plant. Regular pinching of young shoots causes the plant to branch profusely. Try not to place the plant near heating appliances during the winter months.

1.3.When it blooms

In spring - summer, the flowering period can last up to six months. How to make aichrizon bloom? Flowering can be caused by prolonged drying of the soil. A flowering succulent loses a lot of strength in this process, so flower stalks are often removed.

1.4.Ground

The planting substrate should be sandy, well-drained with mild acidity (6.1 - 6.5 pH). Drainage material should be 30 - 50 percent of the total volume. Aichrizon tolerates the poor well nutrients soils.

1.5.Aichrizon transplant

Since the bush has a small root system, it does not need large pots, it is enough to transplant into a pot with a diameter of 10 - 13 cm. If necessary, move the plants of the second year of life into pots one size larger in spring. The size of the pot for it directly affects the size of the plant itself - in cramped conditions, the bush often remains compact. Try to use transshipment - the plant does not like damage to the root system.

1.6. Diseases and pests

Leaves often fall off after flowering. If too many leaves fall off, move the plant to a cooler room in partial shade. Rotting occurs with too abundant watering and the constant presence of moisture in the pan. The bush does not bloom in the absence of a dormant period in coolness or insufficient lighting.

1.7. Watering

During active growth, water abundantly, completely soaking the earthen ball, but allowing the top half of the potting mix to dry out between waterings. With excessive watering, the plants are stretched. During the dormant period, if any, water rarely, only so that the soil does not dry out completely. It is advisable to use lower watering so that moisture does not linger in the pubescence of the plant.

1.8.How to spray

These plants will thrive in humid environments, but they are well adapted to dry environments. Abundant spraying, especially in cloudy weather, causes the plants to rot.

1.9. Fertilizers

If the succulent is given a winter dormant period, standard liquid fertilizers every two weeks only during the period of active growth. With year-round warm content, you can feed year-round with half-concentration fertilizer.

1.10 Temperature

The plant tolerates a wide range of temperatures well. Under normal room conditions, it grows continuously. If you keep the plant indoors where the temperature drops below 13 ° C and in the shade - it will fall into a dormant period and stop growing, but will bloom profusely next season.

1.11.Containment conditions - light

The plant prefers light partial shade during the daytime hours, however, in poorly lit places the plant does not bloom and becomes lanky and elongated. Provide the plant with direct sunlight in the morning and evening for 3 to 4 hours daily.

1.12. Purpose

A fairly rare species in cultivation, perhaps due to its potentially short lifespan. An attractive bonsai can be formed from the plant.

1.13. Note

The life expectancy of this species is 1 - 2 years, the succulent may die after flowering - but not always. The second name - "Tree of Love" is possibly given to the plant because of the shape of the heart-shaped leaves. Among the signs associated with these plants, there is a belief that couples who successfully grow the plant for a long time become happier.

2. Types of aichrizon:

2.1. Aizrizon prostrate - Aichryson laxum

A small succulent shrub with large, spoon-shaped, slightly concave dark green leaves. Semi-deciduous appearance. Flowering is long and abundant.

Aichryson tortuosum

A small perennial evergreen succulent shrub up to 20 cm high with winding stems. The stems are woody from below and covered with bark, and young shoots from above often have pubescence. The leaves are thick, juicy, covered with sparse and long pubescence, collected in rosettes. Leaf shades include light green with a bluish waxy coating, purple, pinkish, cream, brown.

2.3. Aichryson variegated - Aichryson x domesticum "Variegatum"

An evergreen shrubby succulent that forms leaf rosettes at the ends of branched shoots. Leaves have pink, cream or white stripes along the edge. sheet plates. Blooms with small yellow flowers.

2.4. Aichryson laxum - Aichryson laxum

It is a low succulent with numerous branched, fragile shoots.. The leaves are green or with a pinkish edge, small, rounded, covered with chic pubescence, the leaf blade is glossy. Branched inflorescences can carry up to 50 - 60 golden yellow flowers up to 1.5 cm in diameter. The flowers are small, yellow, collected in few-flowered inflorescences. Often plants of this species lose a lot of strength to bloom and die after flowering.

3. Summing up - 7 secrets of success:

1. Growing temperature: it is fashionable to keep the whole year at room temperature ranging from 18 to 24 ° C.
2. Lighting: daily sunbathing in the morning and evening hours for 3 - 4 hours.
3. Watering and humidity: regular watering with drying of the top layer of soil with a thickness of about 2 - 3 cm, any air humidity.
4. pruning: pinching young shoots for better branching and removing fading inflorescences.
5. Priming: Slightly acidic and well drained.
6. top dressing: Highly diluted fertilizer for succulent plants throughout the year.
7. reproduction: stem cuttings, fallen seeds often form self-seeding.