Origin and Habitat: Aeoniums are native of Canary Islands (Atlantic Ocean) This cultivar seems to be a sport found in California (USA)

• Aeonium cv. Sunburst cristatum
• Aeonium decorum cv. Tricolor cristatum

Description: Aeonium cv. "SUNBURST" forma cristata is a branching succulent which produces nice crested stems and seems to to change in and out of its crested mode during the years. The fasciated rosettes have grey-green and cream white leaves edged in bright, pink-red that stand up on stalks to 30 cm, Width: 30-40 cm.

Cultivation and Propagation: It requires gritty well drained potting mix. Water deeply but infrequently. Plants are allowed to thoroughly dry in-between waterings. During the winter months restrict water to about once a month, or just enough to keep the foliage from shrivelling. Position in full to part sun in a sheltered spot, but the bright light enhances the rich hues of the darker Aeoniums, and the subtle blushes of the other colours, but prefers light shade to shade in summer. The plants tend to go dormant in the summer and look a little tired sometimes, but they perk up again in the fall. Summer is the natural dormant season for this species in its native land. Needs protection from severe winter frosts (Hardy to -2°C or a little less for short periods), over winter under glass in all but the mildest of gardens.
Crested growth: Unlike 'monstrose' varieties of plants, where the variation from normal growth is due to genetic mutation, crested growth can occur on normal plants. Sometimes it's due to variances in light intensity, or damage, but generally the causes are unknown. A crested plant may have some areas growing normally, and a cresting plant that looks like a brain, may revert to normal growth for no apparent reason. If you have any of the crested part left you need to remove the normal growth and leave the crested part behind this will need to be done regularly.
Propagation: It is easily propagated by cuttings in the spring. When the stem becomes too tall, just cut the top rosette with a piece of stem and plant it. It will soon take root, while the plant left with just the stem will soon grow new buds that can be in turn used for propagation. Time to take cuttings: April to July.