Petrosedum rupestre, also known as reflexed stonecrop, Jenny's stonecrop, blue stonecrop, stone orpine, prick-madam and trip-madam, is a species of perennial succulent flowering plant in the family Crassulaceae, native to northern, central, and southern Europe.
Prick-madam has moderate disease resistance but is more sensitive to moisture. It is vulnerable to disease when humidity is high and is likely to suffer root rot during dormancy. Regarding care, Prick-madam is drought-tolerant yet requires more frequent watering in the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Prick-madam is appropriate for people with some growing experience, though it can be hard to care for, especially during dormancy. It is particularly suited to those who can spend time tending it through the winter months.
How to keep Petrosedum Rupestre.
Light
Prick-madam grows best in constant sunlight, though it can tolerate moderate sun without serious harm. Having come from a habitat with plenty of sunlight, the plant’s growth can suffer in dim conditions, appearing less healthy and vigorous.
Water
Prick-madam is well-suited to rocky, dry environments where water is scarce. It has a high tolerance for drought, requiring only minimal watering every two weeks. This plant prefers full sun and needs well-draining soil to prevent excess water around its roots, which mimics the conditions of its natural habitat.
Humidity
This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.
Temperature
Prick-madam is native to regions with temperate climates and does best at temperatures from 41 to 90 °F (5 to 32 ℃). Its tolerance of cooler temperatures mirrors its natural habitat. In extreme seasons, avoid subjecting prick-madam to temperatures outside this range to maintain healthy growth.
Fertilizer
For Prick-madam, light doses of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are sufficient. Avoid fertilizing in winter or in summer when it's dormant. Reduce fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before fertilizing. Fertilizing supports healthy growth and encourages blooms.
Pruning
To maintain the shape of a prick-madam, prune any redundant or dense branches during the spring and fall using a knife or scissors. After cutting, apply sulfur powder to the cuts. For propagation, choose a sturdy stem with 5 to 6 leaves. Cut the stem, treat the wound with sulfur powder, and allow it to heal before planting in slightly moist soil.
Pot & Repot
Repot your prick-madam every two years in the spring, using a slightly larger pot with good drainage to encourage growth. After repotting, place the plant in a location with bright, indirect light, and water it sparingly. This will help establish its roots while preventing rot.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Petrosedum
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 5-8
- Mature Height
- 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 46 cm
- Leaf Color
- Gray
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
Other names.