Scientific Name
Phedimus stellatus (L.) Raf.
Common Name(s)
Starry Stonecrop, Stellate Stonecrop
Synonym(s)
Anacampseros stellata, Asterosedum stellatum, Phedimus uniflorus, Sedum deltoideum, Sedum stellatum, Sedum uniflorum
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Umbiliceae
Genus: Phedimus
Etymology
The specific epithet "stellatus (stell-AY-tus)" means "starry" and refers to the starry fruits rather than the flowers.
Origin
Phedimus stellatus is native to the central and eastern Mediterranean Region (southern France, Italy, Balkans, Greece, Turkey) and naturalized in England (Somerset).
Description
Phedimus stellatus, formerly known as Sedum stellatum, is an annual succulent with stout erect or ascending stems and green disc-shaped leaves. The stems are simple or branched and can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) long. The leaves are opposite or sometimes alternate in the upper part, sparingly toothed, measuring up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) long.
The flowers are star-shaped, usually 5-merous, white, pink, or purplish-red, and appear in dense cymes from spring to summer. The fruits are many-seeded stellate follicles.
Phedimus stellatus is the type species of the genus Phedimus.
How to Grow and Care for Phedimus stellatus
Light: These light-loving plants will tolerate light or partial shade but prefer full sun and grow best in warmer environments.
Soil: Phedimus thrive in any well-drained soil. Good drainage is critical for preventing root rot or fungal diseases.
Watering: The best way to water your Phedimus is to use the "soak and dry" method. Get the soil completely wet, and then wait until the soil is dry before watering again.
Fertilizing: Feed with low-balanced fertilizer to keep your plants happy and healthy. Use a diluted dose of half the strength recommended on the package.
Repotting: Repot your plants when they outgrow their current pot by moving them to a larger container to hold the plant better.
Propagation: Phedimus can be grown from seeds, division, or stem cuttings.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Phedimus.
Toxicity of Phedimus stellatus
Phedimus plants can be mildly toxic to humans and animals.
Links
- Back to genus Phedimus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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