About
A slow-growing perennial producing rosettes of grey-green leaves up to 10cm across. The short, fleshy leaves have spiny tips, and usually curve inwards but sometimes the longer, outer row opens out to give a sunflower-like effect. Dense, 30cm spikes of small, creamy flowers are sometimes produced in late summer.
About the genus
Orostachys are low-growing perennials forming dense rosettes of short, fleshy leaves. Erect stems carry clusters of star-shaped flowers in summer or autumn. Individual rosettes die after flowering
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Patio and container plants
Native toRussia to China
Care notes
CultivationGrow in very well-drained soil or compost in full sun. Although very hardy, plants will not tolerate wet or humid conditions so are better grown under cover in a well-ventilated, cold greenhouse or cold frame
PruningRosettes die after flowering, so remove them carefully
PropagationPropagate by rooting offsets in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free