Navelwort, Wall Pennywort
umbilicus rupestris
Also known as: ["Pennywort","Rock Navel"]
Overview
A succulent-like perennial herb with rounded, fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette, native to rocky habitats in Europe and North Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Umbilicus |
| Botanical Name: | Umbilicus rupestris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: rock garden, wall crevices, or shallow containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 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; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, rocky or sandy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; keep away from drafty areas; maintain consistent cool temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; both methods are effective for this species.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem or leaf.
- Let cut end dry for a day.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep lightly moist until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 65–75°F (18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting powder is recommended for faster results.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium barely moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove any dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during spring and summer, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and 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 browning edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or yellowing in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below freezing for extended periods.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown spots; growth may cease in excessively high temperatures.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but still allow soil to dry between waterings.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicUmbilicus rupestris is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk of poisoning when ingested by felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicUmbilicus rupestris is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicUmbilicus rupestris, commonly known as Navelwort or Pennywort, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its mucilaginous content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Umbilicus rupestris edible?
A: The leaves are edible and have been used in salads, though they have a mild, slightly mucilaginous texture.
Q: How should I propagate Wall Pennywort?
A: It can be propagated by division or by taking leaf cuttings, which root easily.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade and can tolerate shade, though it will thrive in brighter conditions with some protection from intense afternoon sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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