Wall Pennywort
umbilicus horizontalis
Also known as: ["Pennywort","Navelwort"]
Overview
A succulent perennial plant with rounded, fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette, native to rocky habitats in Europe and North Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Umbilicus |
| Botanical Name: | Umbilicus horizontalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor spot with protection from intense sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
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 removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong 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 loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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 warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up 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; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to remove unwanted growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth and encourage bushier form; maintain shape and health.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or leggy stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter 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; use fresh soil to refresh nutrients.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use shade cloth if outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use 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-toxicUmbilicus horizontalis is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicUmbilicus horizontalis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicUmbilicus horizontalis is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Wall Pennywort edible?
A: Yes, the leaves are edible and have been used in salads.
Q: How often should I water Wall Pennywort?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Wall Pennywort attract wildlife?
A: It is not known for attracting significant wildlife but can support some pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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