Showy Stonecrop (Hylotelephium erythrostictum)

Showy Stonecrop

Hylotelephium erythrostictum

Its flat flower clusters glow like late-summer constellations. Succulent perennial with long-lasting blooms; common names: Showy Stonecrop, Autumn Stonecrop.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; full sun promotes vibrant leaf margins and abundant flowering; tolerates mild afternoon shade in hot climates
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering and standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Extremely cold hardy to -30°C; tolerates summer heat up to 35°C with well-drained soil
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval to obovate, fleshy, blue-green with reddish margins in full sun
  • Flower: Tiny star-shaped white to pale pink blooms in flat corymb clusters
  • Stem: Erect, succulent, reddish-brown in mature plants
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Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply when top 5 cm of soil is fully dry; reduce frequency during prolonged rainfall

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer once monthly. Use a low-nitrogen, phosphorus-rich fertilizer to support flowering

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface and work into the top 1 cm of soil to avoid pest infestations
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower clusters in early autumn to maintain tidy growth
  • Trim back leggy stems in early spring to promote compact, bushy growth
  • Remove dead or damaged foliage in late winter to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

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

Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for handling and accidental ingestion in small amounts

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental groundcover, rock garden plant; attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators