Oyster Plant
phedimus aizoon
Also known as: ["Oyster Plant","Stonecrop"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent plant with fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers, native to Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Phedimus |
| Botanical Name: | Phedimus aizoon |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- 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 root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring before new growth begins; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning in late summer.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–9; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 90°F; prefers cool nights in summer.
Monitor nighttime temperatures; use frost protection in cold; provide shade in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilizing; apply before new growth emerges.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure good drainage.
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 container; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Select new pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; 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 at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or root damage in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below -30°F without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect roots with frost cloth; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in temperatures above 90°F.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently to avoid heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop feeding in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhedimus aizoon is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhedimus aizoon is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPhedimus aizoon is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Phedimus aizoon toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How much water does Phedimus aizoon need?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, especially in cooler months.
Q: Does Phedimus aizoon 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 activ |
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