Chinese dunce cap - Orostachys boehmeri (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Chinese dunce cap

The chinese dunce cap is a small succulent plant with leaves that are neatly arranged in a beautiful rosette shape. The leaves have thinly-powdered surfaces and rounded margins. Stolons often grow from the bottom axils, with small buds at the tips of the stolons. These little buds also have the ability to develop into independent individuals, so the chinese dunce cap can easily crowd out of a pot. Once a pot is fully covered, those little buds will climb out of the pot, hang pendulously, and sway in the wind, which looks very pretty.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese dunce cap (Orostachys boehmeri)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

30 cm

Plant Height

5 cm

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Chinese dunce cap

Distribution of Chinese dunce cap

Distribution Map

Chinese dunce cap is a plant originally native to temperate regions of East Asia. It has a limited natural range but has been introduced and cultivated in various other places, where it thrives in similar temperate climates. The species is valued for its adaptability to different environments outside its native range, yet details regarding the specific extent of its introduced range remain general.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rock garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Chinese dunce cap

Lavender-gray rosettes, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide.

Produces small plantlets on stems extending 2-6 inches (5-15 cm).

Tiny pale yellow flowers on 6-inch-tall (15 cm) spikes.

Resilient to cold down to at least -5°F (-20°C).

Overall spread of about 1 foot (30 cm) across.

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Care Guide for Chinese dunce cap

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Chinese dunce cap thrives in rocky, low-moisture environments, with high drought tolerance. It retains water in its fleshy leaves, requiring watering every three weeks. Indoors, use well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Ideal for dry climates, chinese dunce cap's low watering needs suit challenging humidity conditions.

Fertilize: Chinese dunce cap benefits from monthly feedings with diluted succulents and cacti fertilizer during spring to early fall, tapering to every other month in winter. Avoid over-feeding to protect its delicate structure and ensure balanced development throughout its seasonal growth cycles.

Pruning: To maintain an appealing shape, large succulent plants, like chinese dunce cap, may require pruning in spring and autumn. Remove redundant or dense branches. For propagation, cut stout stems with 5-6 leaves, treat the wound with sulfur powder, and ensure soil is slightly moist for rooting.

Propagation: Chinese dunce cap is a low-maintenance succulent that prefers well-draining soil. Successful propagation involves sowing seeds on moist soil with indirect light for germination. Consistent moisture is crucial, but over-watering must be avoided to prevent rot, allowing enthusiasts to expand their collection.

Repotting: Repot chinese dunce cap every 2 years in spring, using a shallow, wide pot to prevent root rot. After repotting, maintain lightly moist soil and ensure bright, indirect light for optimal growth, as chinese dunce cap is a slow grower with a unique conical shape.

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