Telephium Stonecrop
hylotelephium telephioides
Also known as: ["Telephium telephioides","Sedum telephioides"]
Overview
A succulent perennial with fleshy, succulent leaves and star-shaped flowers, native to eastern North America.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Hylotelephium |
| Botanical Name: | Hylotelephium telephioides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, raised beds, or containers in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very 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; 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 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 light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water deeply to encourage root growth.
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 clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 90°F; prefers cooler conditions in winter for dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late summer to allow for dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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 medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune at the right time, make clean cuts, dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate 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; avoid wetting foliage; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
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 compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration in extreme heat; stunted growth or root rot in cold, wet conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage if soil is waterlogged; may exhibit slowed growth or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; protect roots with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location during severe cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or bud drop; may go dormant if conditions are too harsh.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but infrequently to avoid stress.
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; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring to summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHylotelephium telephioides is not considered toxic to cats. It is generally safe for ingestion in small quantities, though excessive consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHylotelephium telephioides is not considered toxic to dogs. It is generally safe for ingestion in small quantities, though excessive consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHylotelephium telephioides, commonly known as the starry stonecrop, is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for ingestion in small quantities, though excessive consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hylotelephium telephioides toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How much water does this plant need?
A: It is drought tolerant and requires minimal watering.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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