Orpine (Hylotelephium telephium)
Care, watering, light and tips for Orpine on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Crassulaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 14 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Orpine
Hylotelephium telephium, commonly known as Sedum telephium or 'Hagesmørbukk' in Norwegian, is a robust perennial succulent, valued for its upright stems and fleshy, blue-green leaves that often develop reddish tints. It produces dense clusters of small, star-shaped flowers, typically pink or purple, in late summer and autumn, acting as a magnet for pollinators. It's ideal for rock gardens, sunny borders, or as part of a low-maintenance landscape, adding texture and seasonal interest.
Native range
Europe and temperate Asia
Care tips
It thrives in full sun for abundant flowering and compact growth, though it tolerates some partial shade. Moderate watering is required, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot, as it is very drought-tolerant once established. Use a well-draining, sandy or gritty substrate, specific for succulents. A common mistake to avoid is overwatering, which can be fatal for this hardy species.
How to save a dying Orpine
- Warning signs
- Soft, wrinkled, yellowing leaves or dark spots. Soft, blackened stem.
- First aid
- Remove affected leaves and stems. Check roots. Repot in dry, well-draining soil.
- What kills it
- Overwatering. This succulent is very susceptible to waterlogging and root rot.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't advanced far into the stem. Act quickly at first signs.