Hylotelephium aka Stonecrop

Taxonomy

Hylotelephium, a genus of flowering plants in the Crassulaceae family, consists of approximately 33 species found in Asia, Europe, and North America. Formerly part of the Sedum genus, these plants, commonly known as sedum, stonecrop, live-for-ever, or orpine, are favored in gardens. Horticulturalists have bred various species to create new cultivars, some of which are patented and require a license for propagation. These low-growing, clump-forming deciduous hardy perennials feature succulent-like purple-grey foliage with vibrant pink edging. When planted in a sunny spot, the leaves exhibit a greener color with a paler pink margin compared to those in shady positions. From summer to late autumn, dark pink star-shaped flowers adorn the plants. Ideal for rockeries, gravel gardens, and containers, this variety adds a touch of color to landscapes. With compact mounds of grey foliage, these plants offer multi-season color and are well-suited for containers or borders, as they are drought-tolerant perennials.

Common names

Stonecrop, Lime Twister Stonecrop, Sunsparkler Lime Twister, Sedum Lime Sparkler, Hylotelephium 'Lime Twister

How to care for Stonecrop

Difficulty

Stonecrop presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Stonecrop does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

To ensure the health of your Stonecrop, it's crucial to use a potting soil that won't hold too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to store-bought cactus soil is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.

Lighting

Stonecrop thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Sunsparkler Lime Twister.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Stonecrop to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Humidity

Stonecrop prefers dry environments, so misting the plant to provide extra humidity and allow water to linger on the leaves can create an ideal environment for fungi that can be harmful.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Stonecrop is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Stonecrop’s native range is Asia, Europe, and North America.


More info:
Wikipedia