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Description
Hylotelephium Spectabile, commonly known as showy stonecrop or ice plant, is a hardy perennial flowering plant belonging to the Crassulaceae family. It originates from China and is widely cultivated for its beautiful pink-purple flowers that bloom from late summer to fall. The plant grows up to 60cm tall and spreads up to 50cm wide, forming a dense mat of succulent foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Hylotelephium |
Appearance
The succulent leaves of Hylotelephium Spectabile are blue-green and arranged in a rosette pattern. The leaves are flat, fleshy, and have a powdery coating that helps to reduce water loss. The stems are sturdy and upright, with clusters of star-shaped flowers at the top. The flowers are pink-purple, 2-3cm wide, and are held in large, showy heads that can reach up to 15cm across. The flowers attract butterflies and bees, adding to the plant’s beauty.
Care Guide
Water
Hylotelephium Spectabile prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate wet feet. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization
The plant does not require fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in spring can help to promote healthy growth.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss is ideal for growing Hylotelephium Spectabile.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Hardiness Zones
Hylotelephium Spectabile is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hylotelephium Spectabile is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It can also be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Regular inspections and treatment with neem oil or insecticidal soap can help to prevent these pests.
Habitat
Hylotelephium Spectabile is native to China and Korea, where it grows in rocky, mountainous regions. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in harsh conditions, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping and rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hylotelephium Spectabile a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Hylotelephium Spectabile is a relatively easy plant to grow, as it is drought-tolerant and does not require much maintenance.
Q: How do I propagate Hylotelephium Spectabile?
A: Hylotelephium Spectabile can be propagated through stem cuttings or by division in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Hylotelephium Spectabile be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Hylotelephium Spectabile can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I prune Hylotelephium Spectabile?
A: Hylotelephium Spectabile does not require regular pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can encourage new growth and prolong the blooming period.
Related Plants
- Hylotelephium Telephium
- Hylotelephium Herbstfreude
- Hylotelephium Autumn Joy
- Hylotelephium Matrona
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/hylotelephium-spectabile
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/stonecrop/hylotelephium-spectabile-plants.htm
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/hylotelephium-spectabile/
