It looks like metal! I thought the first one I saw was actually a sculpture.

Aeonium, not sure exactly which.

Aeonium arboreum and one of the atropurpureum group like 'Black Rose' or 'Zwartcop'.

Thanks to you both! Any idea if this can be grown potted?

My daughter - who I'd give it to - is great at growing succulents: but of course back home in the Chicago area, it would have to come indoors for the winter like all the rest she grows.

Yes, it is a popular container plant, although will lose a lot of its coloring indoors if not provided with a strong enough light source.

They do not like hot or humid climates..and are not hardy below a 9b climate. I think outdoors,California is about it for the USA.

I hate them due to having to bringing them indoors for the winter. They get way out of shape due to low light conditions. Echevieria seems to be more forgiving.

Stush

I don't know about your light situation, but mine get really good looking if they are getting some light from supplemental lights. I have 3 different aoeniums, and it is same for each. They are not getting full light/prime spot, because of lack of the space (width-wise and height-wise too), but obviously enough. They are in a dark basement whole winter long, that is why the lights. Lights are on for 12hrs. Spring to fall, they are outside, in morning sun.

Thanks Rina. I have most of my space well used and most under lights. Just these get 2nd. rate treatment.

I've never grown them indoors, but I would be concerned about them getting too tall and falling over, but I think you could stake them up.

...or behead...