Origin
A spontaneous mutation of Aeonium ‘Orion’.
Known names
‘Orion White’ (most commonly used name), ‘Orion Super White’, ‘Canariense White’ and ‘Canariense Super White’.
Creation date / Creator
A Chinese cultivar marketed from 2022. Creator unknown.
Botanical description
Aeonium ‘Orion White’ forms exceptionally broad, imposing rosettes on a plant that remains relatively compact. The thick, fleshy and rather rigid leaves can be more brittle than the thinner leaves of many Aeoniums.
Exceptionally bright white variegation
During winter growth, the leaves generally show a broad green centre surrounded by white-to-cream-white lateral areas. The plant usually retains enough chlorophyll for satisfactory growth, and the variegation remains notably stable through the seasons.
Subtle colour under strong light
Strong light may introduce faint pink tones at the leaf margins, but the cultivar’s appeal lies primarily in its clean green-and-white contrast. White tissue is more susceptible to scorching, so gradual acclimatisation is advisable.
Exceptionally large rosettes
In good conditions, rosettes may exceed 30 cm in diameter. They appear capable of becoming larger than those of ‘Orion’ and ‘Orion Yellow’, developing more in width than in height.
Growth and branching
Growth is moderate and spontaneous branching is relatively limited. Development is concentrated on one or a few very large rosettes rather than a dense bush of small heads.
Robustness and cultivation
Early feedback suggests a generally robust cultivar with no clearly identified special weakness. Use a very free-draining substrate, provide good airflow and protect it from frost.
Photographs
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