Origin:
Aeonium ‘Sir Robert Baden-Powell’ is a complex horticultural hybrid created in Portugal by Sofia Cardoso. According to information provided by its breeder, it combines four botanical species: Aeonium urbicum, Aeonium canariense, Aeonium volkeri, and Aeonium davidbramwellii.
The exact sequence of crosses that led to this selection has not been specified. This parentage should therefore be understood as the stated composition of the hybrid, not as a fully documented crossing formula.
Known names:
‘Sir Robert Baden-Powell’ is the only name currently identified for this cultivar and was given by Sofia Cardoso herself.
Creation date / breeder:
Sofia Cardoso (Portugal). She states that she selected this hybrid in spring 2021. Its existence is publicly documented at least as early as February 2023. This latter date corresponds to the earliest public trace found and not necessarily to the beginning of its distribution.
Botanical description
Aeonium ‘Sir Robert Baden-Powell’ is a compact, readily branching hybrid Aeonium. It forms regular rosettes composed of broad, thick, slightly spatulate leaves ending in a small point.
During active growth and under moderate light, the leaves are rich green to slightly blue-green. Their finely ciliate edges are outlined by a subtle red-to-pink margin that clearly defines the rosette.
As light levels and temperatures rise, pink to reddish tones intensify along the margins and outer portions of the leaves. Purple or pinkish-gray shades can then appear on the most exposed leaves, while the center generally remains a clearer green.
Its silhouette reflects its complex heritage: broad, rounded leaves form a dense rosette, while the plant also has a strong tendency to produce offsets. Over time, it can develop into a compact clump carrying several closely packed rosettes.
Growth appears fairly vigorous and branching is generous. No particular sensitivity specific to this cultivar is currently documented; as with any hybrid that is still not widely grown, these observations can be refined as more cultivation experience becomes available.
Origin of the name
Sofia Cardoso chose to name her creation ‘Sir Robert Baden-Powell’ after Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden-Powell (1857–1941), the British army officer, educator, and founder of the Scout movement. An advocate of learning through observation, self-reliance, and outdoor activities, he became a major international figure in youth education during the 20th century.
The personal reason Sofia Cardoso chose this particular name for her Aeonium is not currently known.
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