Semponium Sienna

x Semponium 'Sienna' is the result of a unique intergeneric cross-breeding between Aeonium and Sempervivum, succulent plants characterised by their rosette foliage. 'Sienna' quickly forms a very dense cone of stunning colour that changes with the seasons: bright red from spring to autumn, green-purple from autumn to early winter, and dark burgundy red at the end of winter, with a bright green centre. It consists of a large rosette surrounded by an average of 12 smaller rosettes, with thick, sturdy, and glossy leaves. This plant is currently considered hardy up to -4ºC, but further testing is needed.

x Semponium 'Sienna' belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is the first hybrid between two genera of succulent plants: Aeonium and Sempervivum, also known as houseleeks. The former are mainly native to the Canary Islands, but also to Madeira, Morocco, and Ethiopia. Aeoniums are beautiful perennials with rosette foliage in astonishing colours, and various shapes. Houseleeks, on the other hand, are commonly found in rocky meadows, on rocks and scree, especially in mountainous areas. They display lovely rosettes of green, golden, bluish, or reddish leaves. 'Sienna' is a cross between Aeonium 'Ice Warrior' and Sempervivum 'Green Ice'. It grows up to 40 cm high with an equivalent width and produces numerous offsets. This perennial consists of a central rosette surrounded by smaller peripheral rosettes. The leaves are quite narrow, spoon-shaped at the tip, thick, and overlapping, without petioles.

x Semponium 'Sienna', like its parents, is an excellent plant for dry or alpine rock gardens, in mild climates in full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. It also thrives in containers and can be brought indoors to a conservatory in winter for protection from the cold. This Semponium is stunning in a pot thanks to its architectural design and conical habit. You can also combine it with various coloured houseleeks, Sedums, or Lewisia cotyledon with pink flowers for a harmonious rock garden.