Orpine
hylotelephium maximum
Also known as: ["Live-forever","Sedum maximum"]
Overview
A hardy succulent perennial with fleshy leaves and clusters of pink or white flowers in late summer.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Hylotelephium |
| Botanical Name: | Hylotelephium maximum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or border fronts
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates bright indirect light indoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade in hot climates; indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water more during hot, dry periods.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 90°F (-34°C to 32°C); prefers cool to moderate temperatures during growth.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; do not over-fertilize to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a rooting hormone powder or gel.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bag or propagator.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; check for roots after 3 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors; disinfect tools before use.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or crossing stems; shape the plant; remove spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to once a month or less in fall and winter when growth slows.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold; frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Cold Stress
Leaves may become discolored or brittle; growth halts; risk of frost damage if not protected in hard freezes.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; move potted plants to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for protection in extreme cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat if watered improperly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use shade cloth or move to a cooler spot during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply once in early spring and once mid-summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHylotelephium maximum is not considered toxic to cats. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHylotelephium maximum is not considered toxic to dogs. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHylotelephium maximum is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Orpine toxic to pets?
A: No, Orpine is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Orpine?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Orpine attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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