Origin
Derived from a mutation of Aeonium ‘Mardi Gras’.
Known names
‘Chang’E’ — also written ‘Chang’e’ or ‘Chang E’ — and 嫦娥 (Cháng’é).
Creation date / Creator
Appeared or began to be marketed in China in 2021; creator unknown. An announcement probably dated 30 July 2021 presented it as a new variety. The earliest explicitly dated public record found is a commercial post from 29 August 2021.
Botanical description
Aeonium ‘Chang’E’ is a variegated shrub-form mutation of ‘Mardi Gras’. Its leaves show a chlorophyll-rich central area surrounded by partially chlorophyll-free lateral bands, together with a distinctive seasonal colour development.
Remarkably stable foliage colours
In winter, the foliage has a green central band of variable width and cream-yellow lateral bands. With increasing light, the leaf margins gradually turn red, forming a strong contrast with the green centre. Unlike some related cultivars whose central band becomes almost black in summer, ‘Chang’E’ generally remains brighter and more balanced.
A recognisable aesthetic signature
Its identity lies less in a dramatic colour transformation than in its ability to retain a harmonious combination of deep green, cream yellow and red margins throughout the seasons. This helps distinguish it from other ‘Mardi Gras’ mutations that may appear similar in winter.
Cultivation and behaviour
‘Chang’E’ appears relatively easy to grow. Growth and offset production are normal, mutation stability seems good from early observations and no particular fragility has yet been noted. Protect it from frost and prolonged sub-zero temperatures, and manage intense summer heat during its natural slowdown or dormancy.
A ‘Mardi Gras’ Aeonium with its own identity
Its persistent red margin and luminous foliage make ‘Chang’E’ readily identifiable and particularly appealing to collectors of variegated Aeoniums.
WINTER PHOTOS
SUMMER PHOTOS
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