Dolomite Houseleek
sempervivum dolomiticum
Also known as: ["Jovibarba dolomiticum"]
Overview
A hardy succulent forming rosettes of fleshy leaves, native to dolomite-rich areas.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","cold hardy","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sempervivum |
| Botanical Name: | Sempervivum dolomiticum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or outdoor containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is extremely low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (4–6 hours/day). Adjust to avoid scorching in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid direct afternoon sun in hot climates.
Watering
every 10–14 days, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, gritty soil mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with large particles for aeration; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C). Tolerates frost but avoid prolonged freezing.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove offset or cut stem.
- Let cut end dry for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright indirect light; high humidity (e.g., using a propagation dome); well-ventilated.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
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, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use a small pot to avoid overwatering; maintain humidity until roots form.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Gently pull off dead leaves by hand or use clean, sharp scissors for larger removals.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves to encourage healthy growth.
Tools
Clean hands or sharp, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; remove gently; sanitize tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one (1–2 inches wider).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, avoiding the rosettes. Ensure water penetrates the root zone but does not pool. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), stunted growth, or mushy leaves (overwatering in cold).
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions; leaves may become brittle.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; protect from frost; reduce watering in cold weather; move indoors if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Can scorch in intense heat; may show signs of dehydration or sunburn; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water early in the day; avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer (¼ strength) once in spring and once in summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSempervivum dolomiticum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSempervivum dolomiticum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSempervivum dolomiticum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion, though it is not typically consumed for culinary purposes.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sempervivum dolomiticum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can Sempervivum dolomiticum be grown indoors?
A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation but can be grown indoors with bright light and good air circulation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 10–14 days, allowing s |
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