Showy Stonecrop
Hylotelephium spectabileUSDA | Grow Zone
3-9Outdoors all year in zones 3 to 9. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant.
- Light
- Full sun, 6 hours min
- Water
- Every 2-3 weeks
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 18-24 in tall, 24-30 in wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets and children
Hylotelephium spectabile, commonly known as Showy Stonecrop, is a resilient succulent native to Asia. Its vibrant flowers and fleshy leaves make it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Ask Vesper about Showy Stonecrop
Ideal temperature
65-75°F is where it grows fastest.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 18-24 in tall, 24-30 in wide
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Hylotelephium spectabile, or Showy Stonecrop, prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently.
Water the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In the winter, reduce watering to once a month or less. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause the leaves to shrivel and become crispy.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Ideal placements include south or west-facing gardens or patios. It can tolerate partial shade but may not flower as profusely in lower light conditions.
Soil
Hylotelephium spectabile prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A sandy or loamy soil composition is ideal, and using a cactus or succulent potting mix can enhance drainage. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Humidity
Showy Stonecrop prefers low to moderate humidity levels, ideally around 40-60%.
To increase humidity, mist the plant occasionally or place a humidity tray nearby. Signs of low humidity stress include browning leaf tips and wilting.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Hylotelephium spectabile is between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
It is hardy in USDA zones 3-9, tolerating cold temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C) and heat up to 90°F (32°C).
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, applying it once in early spring and again in mid-summer.
Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and pale leaves. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth.
Pruning
Prune Hylotelephium spectabile in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged stems. Deadheading spent flowers after blooming can encourage a tidier appearance and promote new growth.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots growing out of the drainage holes.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. To repot, gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen any tightly bound roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through stem cuttings or division.
For stem cuttings, take a healthy stem in spring or early summer, let it callous for a day, and then plant it in well-draining soil. Division can be done in spring or fall by carefully separating the root clumps and replanting them in new locations.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or poor drainage.
How to fix it
Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again and ensure proper drainage.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient sunlight.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a sunnier location to encourage more compact growth.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excess moisture in the soil.
How to fix it
Remove the plant from the pot, trim away any rotten roots, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or underwatering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels or adjust the watering schedule to ensure consistent moisture.
Pests (like aphids)
Why it happens
Attracts pests in warm conditions.
How to fix it
Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil to eliminate pests.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prune back any dead stems and apply a balanced fertilizer to encourage new growth. Ensure the plant receives plenty of sunlight as it begins to grow.
Summer
During summer, water every 2-3 weeks and monitor for pests. Deadhead spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage further blooming.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant prepares for dormancy. Consider dividing the plant if it has outgrown its space, and remove any dead foliage.
Winter
In winter, minimize watering to once a month and protect the plant from extreme cold. Mulch around the base if necessary to insulate the roots.
Toxicity & Safety
Hylotelephium spectabile is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. It is always best to keep plants out of reach of curious pets and children.
Good to know
How often should I water my Showy Stonecrop?
Water your Showy Stonecrop every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Why are my Showy Stonecrop leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil dries out between waterings and check for drainage issues.
What type of soil is best for Hylotelephium spectabile?
A well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal. A cactus or succulent potting mix works well for this plant.
Can I propagate Showy Stonecrop from cuttings?
Yes, you can propagate Showy Stonecrop from stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem, let it callous for a day, and then plant it in well-draining soil.
What pests should I watch for on my Showy Stonecrop?
Watch for aphids and mealybugs, which can infest the plant. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
When is the best time to prune Hylotelephium spectabile?
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to remove dead or damaged stems and promote healthy growth.
Is Showy Stonecrop toxic to pets?
No, Hylotelephium spectabile is non-toxic to pets and children, but ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Track this plant in your garden.
Set care reminders, log growth, and join a community of plant lovers.