Siebold's Stonecrop
hylotelephium sieboldii
Also known as: ["Siebold's Stonecrop","Orpine"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with rounded, fleshy leaves that turn reddish in autumn, native to Japan.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Hylotelephium |
| Botanical Name: | Hylotelephium sieboldii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (4–6 hours daily); tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid direct sun in winter if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water less in winter dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 40°F (4°C).
Protect from frost; avoid drafty areas; maintain moderate temperatures year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging, preferably in the morning.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing/browning) due to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection if outdoors; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHylotelephium sieboldii is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a risk of poisoning or irritation when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHylotelephium sieboldii is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHylotelephium sieboldii is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is a succulent plant with no known harmful effects when handled or ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Hylotelephium sieboldii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, though it appreciates some protection from intense afternoon sun.
Q: Is Hylotelephium sieboldii toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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