Orostachys

Family. Crassulaceae.

Origin. Japan, China, Far East.

Description. Orostachys is a rather variable genus of low-growing perennial, very original plants that form leaf rosettes up to 20 cm in height. The leaves are pointed, triangular or, on the contrary, rounded, light green with a waxy bluish coating or gray, sometimes pinkish in the center of the rosette. The rosette has a spherical shape, often with a protruding center, sometimes similar to a rose flower. In any case, the leaves are thick and fleshy and often have spines. The peduncles are vertical, the inflorescence is a spike or panicle, the flowers are white or pale yellow, greenish-yellow or pink. Often after flowering the main rosette dies, but small daughter rosettes may appear on the side. 

Height. Up to 30 cm.

Care at home

Containment temperature

In the warm season, normal room temperature is suitable for growing orostachys. The plant is thermophilic and tolerates heat well in summer. In winter, during the dormant period, it is advisable to lower the temperature to 10 ° C. 

Reproduction

Daughter rosettes, cuttings in the spring.

Lighting

A very well-lit place with access to direct sunlight.

Care

A very unpretentious succulent that can be content with minimal care. The bush can be recommended for growing by novice gardeners.

Soil

Grows best in dry or slightly moist soil with excellent drainage. A nutrient-poor mixture with a high content of coarse river sand is suitable.

Feeding

Once a month, the orostachys is fed with fertilizers intended for cacti and succulents in half the concentration and only during the period of active growth.

Purpose

The attractive rosette of leaves will look great in a rock garden or florarium.

Flowering time

Flower stalks can decorate the bush from August to September. In indoor conditions, short daylight hours are often required for flowering to occur.

Air humidity

Do not spray this plant; in winter the air should be very dry.

Watering

Avoid overwatering and stagnant water. Water moderately during the warm season, keep the soil almost dry in winter, which succulent species tolerate very well.

Transfer

Orostachis can remain in the same pot for many years. Adult specimens develop slowly and do not require a lot of nutrients - they are replanted every 2-3 years.

Pests and diseases

Rotting in wet, poorly drained soils.

Among the harmful insects that plants can be bothered by are aphids and mealybugs. When grown in open ground, the flower is attacked by slugs and snails.