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Description
Hylotelephium Maximum, also known as Stonecrop, is a succulent perennial plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to North America and can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide. The plant has fleshy, succulent leaves that are green-gray in color and grow in a rosette pattern. During the summer, the plant produces clusters of star-shaped pink flowers that attract butterflies and bees.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Hylotelephium |
Appearance
Hylotelephium Maximum has fleshy, succulent leaves that are green-gray in color and grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are thick and can store water, making them drought-tolerant. During the summer, the plant produces clusters of star-shaped pink flowers that can grow up to 8 inches wide. The flowers are attractive to butterflies and bees and can bloom for several weeks. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide and has a clumping habit.
Care Guide
Water
Hylotelephium Maximum prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage growth.
Soil
Hylotelephium Maximum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Mix equal parts of sand, perlite, and peat moss to create a well-draining soil mix.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate hot, dry conditions. However, it is best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent sunburn.
Hardiness Zones
Hylotelephium Maximum is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hylotelephium Maximum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites and mealybugs can also infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Hylotelephium Maximum is native to North America and can be found in dry, rocky habitats such as cliffs, ledges, and outcrops. The plant is well-adapted to hot, dry conditions and can survive in poor soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hylotelephium Maximum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Hylotelephium Maximum can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location. However, it is important to provide good drainage and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hylotelephium Maximum?
A: Hylotelephium Maximum does not require frequent fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage growth.
Q: Is Hylotelephium Maximum toxic to pets?
A: Hylotelephium Maximum is not toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets and children.
Q: Can Hylotelephium Maximum be propagated?
A: Yes, Hylotelephium Maximum can be propagated by stem cuttings or by division. Stem cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer and allowed to callus over before planting in well-draining soil. Division should be done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing.
Related Plants
- Hylotelephium spectabile
- Hylotelephium telephium
- Hylotelephium ‘Herbstfreude’
- Hylotelephium ‘Matrona’
- Hylotelephium telephium ‘Purple Emperor’
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/stonecrop/hylotelephium-stonecrop.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/hylotelephium-telephium-maximum-stonecrop
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/14561/hylotelephium-telephium-maximum/details
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/hylotelephium/
