Ice Plant
hylotelephium spectabile
Also known as: ["Stonecrop","Orpine"]
Overview
A succulent perennial with fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers, native to East Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Hylotelephium |
| Botanical Name: | Hylotelephium spectabile |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, border fronts, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure adequate light indoors with supplemental grow lights if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid direct sun through glass in summer; provide shade during peak heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
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; use a cactus/succulent mix as a base.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–9; tolerates temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C); prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F / 15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from frost in early spring/late fall; avoid placing near heat sources indoors; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula for succulents.
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.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent potting soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth; minimal pruning needed for healthy plants.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or diseased growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for older plants to refresh soil and encourage growth.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly 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 away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; blackened or mushy stems in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or dieback, especially in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; apply a thick layer of mulch for insulation; protect from freezing winds and excessive moisture.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase air circulation; water deeply but avoid wetting foliage; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHylotelephium spectabile is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHylotelephium spectabile is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHylotelephium spectabile is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hylotelephium spectabile toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does this plant 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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