Origin:
Derived from a middle-type mutation of Aeonium ‘Neptune’, itself derived from a mutation of Aeonium ‘Madeira Rose’, also known as ‘Halloween’.
Known names:
‘Neptune Middle’ (the most commonly used name), ‘Sea Coral’, 海王中斑锦, 海珊瑚, ‘Aquaman Middle’.
Creation date / Breeder:
Originated in China. Commercially available since 2025.
Botanical description
Aeonium ‘Neptune Middle’ is a variegated, middle-type cultivar characterized by exceptionally bright central variegation. It belongs to the lineage of mutations derived from Aeonium ‘Madeira Rose’ (‘Halloween’), a family known for its intense colors and strong ornamental appeal.
In winter, when light levels are lower, the foliage displays a broad bright-yellow to golden-yellow central band framed by pale green lateral areas. This regular variegation highlights the geometry of the rosette and creates an elegant contrast from the beginning of the growing season.
An unusual color palette
As light, temperatures, and solar intensity increase, Aeonium ‘Neptune Middle’ develops a particularly distinctive color progression.
The leaf margins gradually take on delicate mauve to violet tones, while the yellow central band becomes tinged with pink to reddish hues. This combination of yellow, red, and mauve remains relatively rare among aeoniums and is one of this cultivar’s defining features.
In summer, intense heat and water stress tend to soften the mauve tones, which give way to browner shades, a phenomenon frequently observed in cultivars from this lineage.
Growing behavior
Aeonium ‘Neptune Middle’ shows steady growth and a branching capacity comparable to that of many cultivars derived from ‘Madeira Rose’.
Offset production is considered normal, allowing relatively easy propagation by cuttings.
Like several strongly variegated cultivars in the ‘Halloween’ family, it may be slightly more delicate than non-variegated forms, particularly during periods of intense summer heat. Bright light with protection from scorching afternoon sun, together with a very free-draining growing medium, will help preserve both vigor and color quality.
Because observations remain limited following its recent commercial introduction, this profile will be updated as more cultivation experience becomes available.
An original member of the ‘Halloween’ lineage
Aeonium ‘Neptune Middle’ clearly illustrates the diversity of middle-type mutations that have appeared in recent years within the ‘Madeira Rose’ lineage. Its unusual combination of golden yellow, red, and mauve makes it immediately recognizable and especially sought after by collectors.
Still new to the horticultural market, this cultivar will need to be observed over several seasons to better document the stability of its colors, its summer behavior, and its resilience in cultivation.
WINTER PHOTOGRAPHS
SUMMER PHOTOGRAPHS
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