The Aeonium Plant or “Bejeque” is one of the most distinctive plants of the Canary Islands’ flora.
Its fleshy leaves and ability to grow in unlikely places make it a true symbol of resilience and natural beauty.
On La Palma, this succulent thrives on cliffs, sunlit slopes, and old stone walls.
It forms small green rosettes that seem to bloom directly from volcanic rock.
A Genus Full of Life and Color
The term “bejeque” refers to a broad group of plants of the Aeonium genus, belonging to the Crassulaceae family.
There are more than 30 species in the Canary archipelago, many of them endemic to a single island.
Some species also grow in Madeira and North Africa, but the Canary Islands host the greatest diversity.
On La Palma, several types of Aeonium can be found, some unique to the island and adapted to different altitudes and climates.
Their appearance varies greatly. Some form large compact rosettes, while others are small and delicate, with green, reddish, or purple tones depending on sunlight exposure.
Aeonium Species on La Palma
The island is home to several species, including native and endemic ones:
- Giant Bejeque (Aeonium nobile). Endemic to La Palma. Large rosettes over 50 cm wide, with spectacular red flowers that bloom from April to June. It grows mainly around Cumbre Nueva and the northern cliffs.
- Summit Bejeque (Aeonium davidbramwellii). Found in high, sunny areas. It withstands wind and cold with remarkable resilience.
- Green Bejeque (Aeonium palmense). Endemic to La Palma. It grows in humid ravines and eastern slopes covered with vegetation.
- Tree Bejeque (Aeonium arboreum). Common in gardens and inhabited areas. Not exclusive to the island but perfectly adapted to the local climate.
- Rosette Bejeque (Aeonium decorum). Forms small colonies on volcanic rocks. Its green leaves turn reddish under the sun.
A Perfect Natural Design
Aeonium are succulents that store water in their leaves and stems.
This allows them to survive long periods of drought in arid or poor soils.
Their rosettes act as natural funnels, capturing dew and rainwater to nourish the plant.
During flowering, they produce tall stems covered with tiny yellow, pink, or red blossoms.
These attract bees and butterflies, adding life to volcanic slopes.
After flowering, many species die but leave new offspring behind, continuing the cycle of renewal.
Where to See Bejeques on La Palma
“Bejeques” grow almost everywhere on the island, from sea level to mountain peaks.
- In the southern and western coastal areas, species like Aeonium nobile and A. decorum adapt to heat and drought.
- In the northern and eastern ravines, green bejeques flourish in humid and shaded environments.
- Along roads and volcanic trails, they appear on stone walls, especially between Los Llanos, El Paso, and Fuencaliente.
- Sometimes they even grow on the roofs of traditional rural houses.
If you love nature photography, aeonium are perfect subjects.
Their geometric shapes and shifting colors make them one of La Palma’s most photogenic plants.
Curious Facts About the Bejeque
- The name Aeonium comes from the Greek aionos, meaning “eternal”, reflecting its power of regeneration.
- Many bejeques are unique to one island, or even a single ravine, making them botanical treasures.
- In some parts of the Canary Islands, they are also known as verodes, especially when growing beside other succulents.
- They are highly valued in gardening for their beauty, resilience, and easy maintenance.
