Orpine
hylotelephium telephium
Also known as: ["Live-forever","Fleshflower","Witch's Moneybags"]
Overview
A hardy perennial succulent with fleshy leaves and clusters of star-shaped pink or white flowers, native to Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Hylotelephium |
| Botanical Name: | Hylotelephium telephium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or border fronts in temperate climates
- 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 waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates bright indirect light indoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light 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; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water less in winter dormancy.
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 texture.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 90°F; prefers cool conditions in winter for dormancy.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only during active growth; use a low-nitrogen formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or leaf node; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead or diseased stems; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to once a month or less in fall and winter when growth slows.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting or leaf drop in extreme heat; stunted growth or root rot in cold, wet conditions.
Cold Stress
Plants may become dormant or die back in severe cold if not protected; roots can freeze in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily in fall to insulate roots; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in winter.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in excessive heat; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but infrequently to avoid heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
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
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Hylotelephium telephium. Skin irritation can also occur if the sap comes into contact with the fur or skin. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause mild discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Hylotelephium telephium can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's sap may also cause mild skin irritation if contact occurs. The toxins are not considered highly dangerous but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHylotelephium telephium contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's sap may also cause minor skin irritation upon contact. Physiologically, the toxins primarily affect the digestive system, leading to discomfort but not severe systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Orpine edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and stems are edible and have been used in salads or as a potherb.
Q: How often should I water Orpine?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought tolerant.
Q: Does Orpine attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies 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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