Petrosedum forsterianum, the rock stonecrop or Welsh stonecrop, is a species of flowering plant in the family Crassulaceae. It is a mat-forming, evergreen stonecrop native to northwestern and southwestern Europe and northern Africa. It may be grown as an ornamental plant or consumed.
Rock stonecrop has moderate disease resistance and is particularly sensitive to humidity. High humidity makes it more susceptible to disease, and it is prone to root rot while dormant. Regarding care, rock stonecrop tolerates drought but requires more water during the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during dormancy. Rock stonecrop is best suited to growers with some experience, as it can be challenging to care for, especially during the dormant period. It is particularly appropriate for those who can devote time to its care in the winter months.
How to keep Petrosedum Forsterianum.
Light
Originating from arid areas, Rock stonecrop does best in full sun, since its native habitat featured intense sunlight and very little shade. It also tolerates partial sun, providing some flexibility in its growth.
Water
To properly water rock stonecrop, it's important to consider both the plant's condition and the surrounding environment. During hot weather or when the plant is dormant, reduce watering to once every one to two weeks. In the summer, water the plant in the evening. Watch for signs of thirst in the leaves and check the soil's moisture level. Adjust your watering frequency based on the type of pot and its drainage capacity.
Temperature
Although Rock stonecrop can tolerate some heat, it mainly thrives and grows in cooler seasons and becomes dormant in summer. In hot summer temperatures, provide shade to avoid scorching from strong sunlight. Watering should be reduced or stopped during the hottest season to prevent root rot. Rock stonecrop shows vigorous growth in winter and spring; if temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
For Rock stonecrop, small amounts of fertilizer applied once or twice a year during the growing season are adequate. Do not fertilize in winter or in summer, when the plant is dormant. Cut back on fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before you start feeding. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and promotes blooming.
Pruning
Rock stonecrop is a succulent plant with evergreen leaves and star-shaped yellow flowers. It thrives with minimal pruning. The best time to cut back dead stems and leggy growth is in early spring, as this promotes health and blooms. Be careful not to over-prune, as this can stress the plant. Regular seasonal maintenance will ensure that your rock stonecrop remains healthy and attractive.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent, Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Petrosedum
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-9
- Mature Height
- 10 cm to 15 cm
- Mature Spread
- 20 cm to 30 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green Yellow, Light Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall
- Native Area
- Germany, Portugal, Spain, Netherlands, Ireland, United Kingdom, Morocco, Belgium, France
Other names.