Orostachys is a genus of monocarpic rosette-forming succulents similar to Echeveria and Sempervivum. These succulents grow quickly, with grey or green leaves forming small rosettes. The small, bell-shaped flowers are usually white or pink and grow densely on conical inflorescences up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall, making them striking to look at. The plants are native to Korea, China, Mongolia, and northern Japan.
Some species show fantastic rosette symmetry. Orostachys spinosa is notable because its leaf pattern follows a Fibonacci sequence.
Growing Conditions
As with most similar genera of Crassulaceae, Orostachys survives in fairly poor soil so long as it is well-draining. The species are very cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures below -30°F (-34°C). Let the soil dry to the touch between waterings, and avoid getting water on the rosettes. Orostachys actively grows in spring and summer. Plants in this genus need bright light and do not tolerate high humidity well.
Propagation
Orostachys plants self-propagate through offshoots, given time. Thus, one plant will form a dense mat of many. Propagation is primarily through offset separation.
To separate an offset, remove soil from the offset's base to find the stolon (thick stem that attaches the offset to the mother plant). It is best to use an offset that has already established its own roots. Cut the stolon close to the offset. Place the offset in a small pot filled with well-drained soil. Do not water until new growth is noted.
General Care
Pruning: These are generally excellent plants to forget about. Leave them in a bright, sunny location and water very sparingly. Water in the morning to prevent water from sitting on the leaves overnight. Remove any dead leaves from rosettes, as they invite rot and insects. When a rosette has flowered, it will die shortly.
Problems: If a plant is unhealthy, start by checking your watering habits. The most common problem is root rot due to overwatering. If the soil is too wet, it may not dry out properly if you don't water it for a while. Replace the soil immediately.
One of the most common houseplant pests is mealybugs, and your Orostachys may fall prey to them. However, mealybugs often attack the roots because the leaves are tightly packed. This makes them far less visible than mealybugs, which attack leaf-stem junctions. Symptoms of a root mealybug infestation include slowed or stopped growth (though in winter, this is a normal sign of dormancy). If this occurs without apparent cause, remove the plant from the pot and examine the roots. A white cottony substance on the roots and soil is a sure sign of mealybug infestation. Remove all soil and gently wash the roots. Remove any damaged roots with a sharp, sterile knife or scissors. Let them dry very thoroughly before replanting.
Source: everything2.com
Links
- Back to genus Orostachys
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus