Origin
Hylotelephium telephium (L.) H. Ohba ssp. telephium, commonly known as Great Orpine, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. The species is native to Europe, including Great Britain and Ireland, and parts of Asia.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including Great Orpine, Live-Forever, Witch's Moneybags, Livelong, Frog's Stomach, Frog's Belly, Harping Johnny, and Adam and Eve. These names vary according to the region and cultural beliefs.
Uses
The plant has both ornamental as well as medicinal uses. In gardens, Great Orpine is grown for its beautiful foliage and showy flowers. The plant is drought-tolerant and easy to grow, making it an ideal choice for gardeners who want to add low-maintenance plants to their flowerbeds. The plant’s leaves can be used in salads, and the flowers can be used to make a mildly sweet tea with a hint of lemon flavor.
Great Orpine has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The plant contains tannins and flavonoids, which are said to have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. The leaves were historically used to treat wounds, burns, diarrhea, and other ailments. The plant was also considered to have mystical and supernatural powers and was believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to those who possess it.
General Appearance
Great Orpine is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 60 cm (24 inches) tall. The plant has fleshy, succulent leaves that are oval or oblong in shape and have a bluish-green color. The leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem and can grow up to 12 cm (4.7 inches) long and 9 cm (3.5 inches) wide.
The plant blooms from July to September and produces clusters of pink or purple flowers that are star-shaped and have five petals. The flowers grow on tall, sturdy stems and can grow up to 25 cm (10 inches) long. The plant grows well in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil.
Light Requirements
The plant Hylotelephium telephium (L.) H. Ohba. ssp. telephium requires full sun to thrive. It cannot tolerate shade or partial shade, as it needs direct sunlight to perform photosynthesis. Therefore, it is best to plant it in a location with constant exposure to the sun.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adapted to temperate regions, and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can survive in zones 3 to 9 of the USDA Hardiness Zones, meaning it can tolerate temperatures ranging from -30°F to 30°F. It can also tolerate semi-arid and arid regions where the temperature can occasionally rise above 90°F. However, it is important to note that frost can damage the plant, so it is best to plant it in areas where frost is rare or non-existent.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in a wide range of soils, but it prefers well-drained soils that are slightly alkaline. It can tolerate sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they have good drainage. The soil should also be rich in organic matter, which can be achieved by adding compost or manure to the soil. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth. Additionally, the plant can tolerate drought conditions, but it requires occasional watering to prevent the soil from drying out completely.
Cultivation of Hylotelephium telephium (L.) H. Ohba. ssp. telephium
Hylotelephium telephium (L.) H. Ohba. ssp. telephium, also known as purple orpine, is a herbaceous perennial plant that adds a unique aesthetic element to any garden. This plant requires minimal care and is relatively easy to cultivate.
Watering Needs
Watering Hylotelephium telephium should be done with care, as it is tolerant of drought but prefers regular watering. The plant prefers deep watering once per week, especially during prolonged dry spells. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other problems.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be carried out in spring, using a balanced fertilizer. It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to weak stems and foliage. This plant is not very demanding in terms of nutrients and may not require additional fertilization if grown in rich soil.
Pruning
Hylotelephium telephium does not require regular pruning, but deadheading spent flowers during the growing season will encourage continued blooming. Pruning should be done in early spring, before new growth begins. To promote a bushier growth habit, pinch off new growth at the tip of the stems during the early growing season. This will encourage the development of more lateral branches and a fuller plant.
Propagation of Hylotelephium telephium (L.) H. Ohba. ssp. telephium
Hylotelephium telephium (L.) H. Ohba. ssp. telephium, commonly known as "purple emperor" or "orpine", is a succulent perennial plant that can be propagated through several methods. Knowing these methods is essential to propagate this plant successfully.
Propagation through Division
The easiest method to propagate Hylotelephium telephium is through division, and it's best performed during spring or fall. To do this, dig out the clump of the plant, and using a sharp and sanitized knife, cut it into small sections, each with one or more buds or shoots. Make sure that each section has enough roots and replant them in a well-draining soil mix. Water them thoroughly, and keep them in a shaded area to reduce water loss through transpiration. After a few weeks, they will root and start sprouting new leaves.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Hylotelephium telephium can also be propagated through stem cuttings in spring when the plant is actively growing. Take a healthy stem cutting, around 4-6 inches long, with several leaves. Remove the lower leaves, leaving a few on top, and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. Then, plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and water well. Keep the cutting in a shaded area, and cover it with a plastic bag to increase humidity levels. After a few weeks, it will root, and new leaves will emerge.
Propagation through Seed
Propagation through seed is another method, but it may take longer to produce mature plants. Collect seeds from the plant in autumn, and plant them in a well-draining soil mix or directly in the garden bed. Sow them shallowly in moist soil and cover them only with a thin layer of soil. Water them gently, and keep them in a shaded area. After 1-2 weeks, the seeds will germinate, and new leaves will emerge. It may take several years for the plant to reach maturity.
Disease Management
Hylotelephium telephium (L.) H. Ohba. ssp. telephium can suffer various diseases, such as:
- Fungal Leaf Spot: Identified by the presence of small, circular, or angular spots that might have a reddish or grayish center, surrounded by a darker margin. To avoid this disease, you should avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves.
- Powdery Mildew: Identified by the presence of a white, powdery substance on leaves and stems. Overcrowding, high humidity, and damp conditions favor this disease. You can manage it by spacing the plants to ensure good air circulation, reducing humidity, and avoiding overhead watering.
- Crown Rot: Identified by stems that turn black and soft on the soil line, this disease is caused by soil-borne fungi. To prevent it, plant in well-drained soils and avoid overwatering and plant injury.
Pest Management
Some common pests that target H. telephium include:
- Spider Mites: Identified by tiny webbing and stippling on leaves. These pests suck sap from plants, causing leaves to discolor and fall off. To control spider mites, ensure the plant is well-watered, and keep the humidity high to attract natural predators such as mites and ladybirds.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests feed on the leaves, leaving holes and unsightly damage. To reduce their population, you can handpick them or use slug baits.
- Aphids: Identified by the presence of curled and distorted leaves, as well as a sticky substance on the plant's surface. These pests can be removed by spraying the plant with a strong blast of water or applying insecticidal soap.
