Aichrizon loose indoor plants. Aichrizon - succulent shoots of the tree of love

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. It grows widely, thanks to which it can be grown as a 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, bad smell.

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

Many folk beliefs and signs are associated with the tree of love, 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 clear sign the fact 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 noted 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. Blooms 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 ground;
• 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, the foliage should be washed weekly under 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.

By temperature regime There are no special requirements for the love tree. 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 period for a tree of love, it is desirable to provide just such a temperature. 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 light-loving enough, but it does not tolerate long-term exposure to direct sunlight, especially in hot weather. 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

With 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 active growth plants. 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

A relative of the well-known money tree aichrizon is a plant belonging to the Crassulaceae family. This is a low succulent bush, reaching a height of 30 cm and a diameter of about 25 cm, with strongly branching stems that practically do not woody.

The second name of aichrizon is very romantic and beautiful - the people called the plant the tree of love. This is due to the fact that its puffy and lightly fluffy leaves are shaped like small green hearts. They are collected in a kind of outlet.

The birthplace of Aichrizon is the island of Madeira, located in Atlantic Ocean. Sometimes the tree of love is found in the Canaries or the Azores, in Portugal. Now it is grown by many lovers of indoor plants.

Popular types of love tree (aihrizona) and photos

The genus Aichrizon has about 15 various kinds plants. They differ from each other in the shape of the leaves, size, intensity of the edge. The main types of aichrizon that are grown by flower growers are as follows:

• stonecrop;
• home;
• winding;
• loose or prostrate;
• point.

- a shrub with short (no more than 15 mm) and wide leaves, resembling a club in shape, growing close to each other and forming rosettes with a diameter of up to 6 cm. Their color is yellowish-green or green. Sometimes reddish stripes can be seen on the leaves, which secrete a special sticky substance that covers the surface of the leaf. Shoots are straight. Aichrizon stonecrop blooms with yellow flowers collected in racemose inflorescences. The flowering period is up to 2 months. Plant height - up to 40 cm. In the winter season, it tends to drop leaves.

A photo. Aichrizon

- a modest shrub up to 30 cm high and with the same diameter. This is a hybrid obtained by crossing the dotted and sinuous aichrizons. The leaves are club-shaped, small, up to 2 cm long and up to 1 cm wide, collected in neat rosettes and covered with white hairs. Their color is deep green. The flowers are yellow, with a bright aroma. home aichrizon It can bloom for a very long time: this period sometimes reaches 6 months.

- a compact shrub with a shoot height of up to 30 cm. Light green leaves in the shape of rhombuses, thick, with a white edge, collected in rosettes. The size of one leaf blade is approximately 1 * 1.5 cm. The petiole is very short - this distinguishing feature sinuous aichrizon. The flowering period begins in spring and sometimes lasts up to 6 months.

- a shrub that visually resembles a cube in shape. Height up to 40 cm. The leaves are in the form of rhombuses, planted on a long petiole, have a white edge, collected in rosettes. The size of the leaf blade is 1 * 3 cm. Loose aichrizon blooms yellow flowers about 6 months, starting in spring. Feature of this plant - dropping leaves after the end of the flowering period.

- a compact plant up to 40 cm high. The shoots are brown-green with a white edge. This is a distinctive feature spot aichrizon: the hairs on the stems grow much thicker than on the leaves. Leaf blades are rhombus-shaped, slightly pubescent, planted on long petioles and collected in rosettes.

A place in the house for aichrizon flower

Position the aichrizon flower so that direct sunlight does not fall on it.

A place in the house for aichrizon is chosen where there is no nearby heating appliances and household appliances but still have good lighting. The light should be diffused - direct sunlight is detrimental to the plant. It's great if you manage to settle the aichrizon on the western or eastern window. If the plant has to stand on the windowsill on the south side, then it is important to provide it with shading, otherwise sunburn of the foliage cannot be avoided. A light shadow can be created using tulle or gauze.

The air temperature in the room should be within 20-25 degrees in spring and summer, and in winter the flower feels quite comfortable at just 10 degrees Celsius. If the room is hotter, the plant will begin to lose leaves.

Airizone care at home

Aichrizon is not a capricious plant and takes root well even in apartments where there are unfavorable conditions for growing. It is quite easy to take care of him.

Watering and humidity for a flower

Since Aichrizon is a succulent, it does not need abundant watering. The leaves will help determine that the plant needs water: if the leaf blades are elastic, dense, then it is not necessary to water the aichrizon. In winter, watering should be very rare. But in no case should aichrizon be watered abundantly - the roots of the plant can rot! It is best if he receives water often, but little by little.

Humidity is far from decisive factor environment that affects the plant. Aichrizon feels great in a room with dry air. Sometimes the plant can be bathed under a warm shower, with the exception of the wintering period.

Soil and top dressing for aichrizon plants

The soil for aichrizon should not be heavy or rough.

Since the roots of aichrizon are small and weak, it should not be planted in heavy rough soil or a tall pot - this is fraught with rotting of the root system. The best soil for this plant is prepared as follows: 1 part of peat soil is mixed with 1 part of sod, 1 part of coarse sand and 1 part of expanded clay or gravel. The mixture is poured into clay pots with a diameter of not more than 12 cm, good drainage material must be placed on the bottom. Aichrizon will be delighted with such an additive as pieces of birch charcoal.

In order for the plant to be lush and bushy well, in the spring and summer it will have to be fertilized often - about once every 2 weeks they bring it into the soil complex top dressing with low nitrogen content. In winter, feeding the plant is not required.

pruning

It is necessary for the formation of a beautiful rounded crown. Should be carefully pinched upper part young shoots, old and weak ones are simply removed. AT spring time be sure to prune too long shoots. Also, after flowering, it is necessary to cut off the obsolete flower stalks.

flower transplant

The procedure is carried out in the spring, if necessary. Here it is important to assess how the roots filled the pots. After transplanting, the plant is watered in small portions. Also, a transplant is necessary if you have just purchased aichrizon - it is better to replace store soil.

Aichrizon begins to bloom from two years

Aichrizons bloom at the age of about 2-3 years. The flowering period begins in spring and, depending on the species, can last up to six months. Sometimes, even upon reaching the required age, the plant refuses to bloom - this means that the necessary conditions have not been met. In order for Aichrizon to please you with its flowers, it is necessary to transplant it into a small pot, moderate watering, and the bush should winter in a cool room.

Aichrizon reproduces quite well at home. New plants can be obtained both from seeds and grown from cuttings.

To grow aichrizon from seeds from sand and leafy soil in a ratio of 1: 2, soil is prepared, into which the seed is poured. A container with future flowers is placed in a bright place and covered with a film or glass. It is very important to ventilate and periodically spray the soil. Young seedlings appear about 14 days after sowing.

The easiest way to propagate aichrizon is cuttings.

When young aichrizons grow up, they dive, while the "mother" soil is replaced in the box: mix sand, light soil and leafy soil in a ratio of 0.5:0.5:1. Then, when the plants get stronger, they are planted in separate pots with a diameter of about 7 cm and placed in a room with an air temperature of up to 18 degrees.

It is even easier to propagate aichrizon by cuttings. A cut shoot a couple of hours after detaching from the mother plant is dug into a mixture of vermiculite and sand or ready soil for succulents. Rooting occurs very quickly, after which the bushes are transplanted into pots up to 7 cm in diameter.

A cut shoot can also be placed in water until the roots form, but there is a risk that the branch will begin to rot.

Since the seeds of aichrizon quickly lose their germination, cuttings are the best option for propagating this plant.

Diseases, pests and plant care during this period

Aichrizon - a plant with strong immunity. With proper care, the disease is not terrible for him, and pests most often bypass him. In some cases, aichrizon can attack spider mites, nematodes, mealybugs. With excessive watering, the plant is prone to the development of rot.

Flower growers may be faced with the fact that Aichrizon's leaves begin to fall off. This is most often seen in autumn period when the plant is preparing for wintering. If the leaves begin to fall off in the summer, then the flower is most likely exposed to direct sunlight - it should be shaded. Also, the cause of leaf fall may be drying out of the soil or its excessive watering.

During the flowering period, aichrizon often loses most leaves - you should not be afraid of this.

Signs and beliefs

Aichrizon is considered the tree of happiness. Well, if before entering new house the family will acquire such a plant and take care of it. After all, if you believe the signs, where aichrizon grows, harmony, happiness and love reign. It is believed that the flower absorbs all negative energy, cleanses the aura and protects the house from troubles and adversities. Interestingly, only the inhabitants of Russia associate this plant with love.

The beautiful aichrizon is known to many gardeners as the "tree of love", having received such a nickname for unusual shape leaves that look like rounded hearts. The plant has a branched form with a lush crown that 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.

Types and varieties of the "tree of love"

When choosing aichrizon for your small greenhouse, you should know that the plant has several types. Here are the most popular of them:

1. Aichrizon home is the most common shrub variety, reaching up to 30 cm in height. The crown diameter is about the same. The plant is characterized by small dense foliage, with a small edge and a rich green color. This species is popular due to its flowering - you can admire flower stalks up to 20 cm in height.
2. Sinuous - a small-sized representative of the group, which grows up to 15–20 cm in height. Such a shrub is characterized by diamond-shaped leaves with a margin, as well as yellow star-shaped inflorescences. The plant can bloom up to 4-6 months in a row.
3. Aichrizon stonecrop is a larger shrub with a beautiful spreading crown. The branches of this variety are strongly branched, with dense rosettes up to 12 cm in diameter. Also, this type of tree does not have an edge on the foliage, they are completely smooth and have brown spots. Flowering reaches 8 cm and are distinguished by a rich yellow color, delighting the owners in spring period.
4. Point - a tree up to 40 cm high, which is characterized by densely pubescent green-brown shoots and diamond-shaped foliage. Rosettes are dense, have a carved border. Such a shrub produces small loose inflorescences of yellow color.
5. Aichrizon loose is also a very common type of shrub, which is distinguished by its large size and 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 flowers.

Aichrizon - beautiful decorative tree for home greenhouse

Reproduction at home

Aichrizon lends itself to reproduction well, mainly the process occurs through stems or cuttings. To do this, dry planting material in a darkened room and planted in the soil. The potting soil is unusual. The composition contains moistened sand and vermiculite. You can also use deciduous or sod land. All components are added in a 1:1 ratio. Further planting occurs after the appearance of roots, they must be transplanted into larger pot and grow aichrizon at 16°C-18°C.

Rarely propagated by seeds. As a rule, they are immediately placed in the ground, which also consists of river sand and leafy land. You can water the plant only by spraying.

Important! Before the first sprouts appear, the pots must be wrapped with plastic wrap.

After stable healthy shoots have formed, it is necessary to plant young shrubs in small pots, continuing to care for plants in the case of propagation by shoots.

Aichrizon easily tolerates reproduction and is unpretentious at a new landing site.

Growing difficulties

Novice flower growers often face problems when breeding aichrizon. It is not always possible to solve them without some experience, so we will give the most common difficulties below:

1. Strong fall of leaves. This phenomenon is not uncommon and there can be many reasons for the appearance. For example, you have over-moistened the earthen ball, kept the plant under intense sunlight, or dried out the soil in a pot. If the foliage falls off at the end of autumn, then this indicates an increase in the temperature inside the room. Take aichrizon 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.
2. Under conditions of "warm" wintering, the stems of aichrizon, as a rule, are exposed and stretched along, forming an irregular skeleton. If this happened to your plant, then the only thing you can do is root the tops, rejuvenating the tree. It is also allowed to pinch the apical bud along with pruning of the central stem.
3. Aichrizon is disease resistant. The same goes for pests. However, the plant is susceptible to the negative effects of rot, so you should not “fill in” the pot.

Aichrizon can hurt due to improper care

Aichrizon Care

Maintain optimal air temperature. In the period spring - summer, the plant should be in conditions of 20 ° C - 25 ° C. If it is stuffy in your home, then try to provide airflow to the aichrizon fresh air or take the pot into the garden, sheltering from rain and wind. The tree should overwinter at a temperature of 8-10 ° C.

Watch out for lighting - aichrizon needs diffused, but bright light. Try to close from direct sunlight, as this will create discomfort for the plant up to the appearance of burns. The best option- placing 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 aichrizon crown 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 usual care is suitable for the tree, as for any ornamental plant.

Be careful with watering aichrizon. This plant needs moderate soil moisture, an indicator of which is foliage turgor. Prevent rotting, so inspect outlets every week. If they spring, then the tree has enough moisture, and if lethargy appears, it is necessary to water. In summer and spring, increase the volume of water compared to the winter period.

To stimulate the growth of new leaves, you need to take a warm shower twice a month. You will need to take the pot of Aichrizon into the bathroom and spray it liberally with 30°C water. Then leave the plant there until the drops are completely dry so that it does not get burned in the sun. And only then return to your place. In the dormant period, it is not recommended to water the aichrizon at all.

Aichrizon is unpretentious in care, but needs constant attention.

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 a pot and it needs to be changed. Choose small containers as root system these plants are superficial. The composition of the soil should be as follows:

• leaf ground - 1 part;
• river sand - 1 part;
• turf - 2 parts;
• humus - 1 part.

Transplantation must be done every year so that the tree has a beautiful crown.

Top dressing and flowering tree

Complex compositions with a low nitrogen content are suitable for aichrizon fertilizer, otherwise the plant will not bloom. Fertilization is carried out in the spring - autumn period or from the moment of flowering until its completion, 1 time in 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 plant variety. If, upon reaching this age, the tree does not bloom, the conditions of its maintenance should be changed: transplant into a smaller pot, put in a cool, dark place and provide rare watering.

Important! When flowering, aichrizon loses up to 80% of its foliage, and the rosettes themselves die off. This is normal and is not an alarming sign of tree disease. After pruning, the plant will quickly restore the green mass.

Blooming aichrizon will decorate your home with amazing colors

Pruning and disease

The tree of love can be grown as a shrub or trunk. In order for the crown of the aichrizon to be thick and beautiful, it is necessary to regularly pinch the tops of the shoots, as well as remove crooked processes. If, due to the heat, the skeleton was twisted, you can cut off ugly shoots and re-root healthy cuttings.

As a rule, aichrizon is not too attractive to pests and is not affected by them. However, it 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.

Video: how to properly care for aichrizon

As you can see, growing aichrizon at home is a fairly hassle-free task, but as a result you will get an amazingly beautiful tree. In conditions of competent care, the plant will delight the owners with amazing flowering for 4-6 months in a row, while only a few simple rules must be followed.

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 dimensions the 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.

AT 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. Due to the original shape of the leaves, which are more like hearts, aichrizon acquired the 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. Moreover, they form a large number of branches naturally. 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 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 the 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 devices.

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 large quantity 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 recommended only during the period of 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 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. To receive 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 light, 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 soddy soil. 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 all the necessary conditions were created for the plant, then its flowers open already in April-May. Proper Care behind 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 much frequent watering lead to 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 a popular sign: 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 of leafy soil 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

Exist 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 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. Color green, sometimes with patches 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. AT summer season 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. In the summer, they periodically bathe under a warm shower to wash off the dust from 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 ordinary garden soil with the addition of sand. The addition of charcoal is welcome, a small amount 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.