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Description
Hylotelephium, commonly known as stonecrop, is a genus of succulent plants in the family Crassulaceae. There are approximately 33 species of Hylotelephium, which are native to Europe and Asia. Stonecrop plants are known for their fleshy leaves and colorful flowers, which bloom in late summer and fall. They are easy to grow and care for, making them a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Hylotelephium |
Appearance
Hylotelephium plants are characterized by their fleshy, succulent leaves and stems. The leaves are usually toothed or scalloped and can be green, blue-green, purple, or red. The flowers are star-shaped and bloom in shades of pink, red, white, or yellow. The plants can reach a height of 2 feet and a spread of 1-2 feet. They are often used in rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Care Guide
To care for Hylotelephium plants, you should:- Water: Water the plants deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plants once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Plant the stonecrop in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Place the plants in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Hylotelephium plants are hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hylotelephium plants are generally pest and disease resistant. However, they can be susceptible to:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause webbing on the leaves and damage to the plant.- Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant.
Habitat
Hylotelephium plants are native to Europe and Asia, where they can be found growing in rocky, mountainous areas. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. In the wild, they often grow on cliffs and other rocky surfaces.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hylotelephium plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Hylotelephium plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive plenty of sunlight and are planted in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Hylotelephium plants be fertilized?
A: Hylotelephium plants should be fertilized once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Do Hylotelephium plants attract bees?
A: Yes, Hylotelephium plants are known to attract bees and other pollinators with their colorful flowers.
Q: How do I propagate Hylotelephium plants?
A: Hylotelephium plants can be propagated by stem cuttings or by dividing the plant at the roots.
Related Plants
Other plants in the family Crassulaceae include:- Sedum- Echeveria- Kalanchoe- Sempervivum
References
– “Hylotelephium.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 16 July 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hylotelephium.- “Hylotelephium (Stonecrop).” Gardenia.net, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/hylotelephium-stonecrop. – “Stonecrop (Hylotelephium spp.).” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286890.
