Cliff Stonecrop (Hylotelephium cauticola)

Cliff Stonecrop

Hylotelephium cauticola

Low-growing mat-forming succulent, soft rosettes add delicate texture to rock gardens. Common name: Cliff Stonecrop.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright, direct sunlight and tolerates mild drought conditions
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Cold-hardy to -15°C; withstands light frost and mild summer heat
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Round to spoon-shaped, blue-green fleshy leaves arranged in tight, low rosettes
  • Flower: Dense clusters of star-shaped pink to reddish-pink blooms atop short stems
  • Stem: Slender, trailing stems that root at nodes to spread into compact mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote compact growth and flowering

Banana peel compost tea:Use fully composted banana peels; dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching to avoid attracting pests
Pruning
  • Trim spent flower heads after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance
  • Thin overcrowded mats in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Remove dead or damaged foliage to promote new growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

Humans: No toxic compounds identified for human consumption or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental groundcover for rock gardens; erosion control on slopes; container edge planting