Maltese Clover
aichryson laxum
Also known as: ["Maltese Creeper","Saxifraga laxa"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with small, rounded leaves and bright yellow flowers, native to the Canary Islands.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Aichryson |
| Botanical Name: | Aichryson laxum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, partially shaded spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- 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: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense summer sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel if needed.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extreme cold or heat.
Protect from drafts; maintain moderate temps; avoid sudden changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; both methods are effective for Aichryson laxum.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Let them callus for a day.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.
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 soil.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove leggy or dead growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/leggy stems; shape the plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
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 mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting the foliage; allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
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 stunted growth in cold; scorching or yellowing in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
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; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAichryson laxum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of poisoning in felines from this plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAichryson laxum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of poisoning in canines from this plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAichryson laxum is not known to produce any toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Aichryson laxum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Aichryson laxum require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but protection from intense afternoon sun is recommended.
Q: Can Aichryson laxum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, but it prefers bright, indirect light and good air circulation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light or part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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