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Description
Orostachys Japonica, also known as Japanese dunce cap, is a perennial succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to Japan, Korea, and China and can grow up to 5-10 cm tall and 10-20 cm wide. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and easy maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Orostachys |
Appearance
Orostachys Japonica has rosettes of fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves that are green with red tinge on the edges. The leaves grow up to 4 cm long and 2 cm wide. The plant produces a tall, thin stem with small, yellowish-green flowers in the summer. The stem can grow up to 30 cm long, but it usually stays shorter than the leaves.
Care Guide
Orostachys Japonica is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginners. Here are some care tips for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered once a week during the growing season. In the winter, water less frequently to avoid rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH level. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix for best results.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to stretch and lose its compact shape.
- Hardiness Zones: Orostachys Japonica is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Orostachys Japonica is generally pest-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. To prevent infestations, keep the plant clean and dry, and inspect it regularly for any signs of pests. The plant can also be prone to root rot if overwatered, so make sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Orostachys Japonica is native to rocky areas and cliffs in Japan, Korea, and China. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought and low-nutrient conditions. In cultivation, the plant is often grown in rock gardens, containers, or as a groundcover.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Orostachys Japonica be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem or leaf cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry out for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize the plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Orostachys Japonica tolerate frost?
A: No, the plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I water the plant?
A: Water the plant once a week during the growing season, and less frequently in the winter to avoid rot.
Related Plants
- Orostachys Fimbriata
- Orostachys Iwarenge
- Orostachys Spinosus
- Orostachys Thyrsiflora
References
- “Orostachys Japonica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c895.
- “Orostachys Japonica.” Plant Care Today. Accessed June 25, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/orostachys-japonica.html.
- “Orostachys Japonica.” World of Succulents. Accessed June 25, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/orostachys-japonica-japanese-dunce-cap.
