Umbilicus oppositifolius, common names lamb's-tail and gold drop, is a succulent, perennial flowering plant, a species in the genus Umbilicus of the family Crassulaceae. It is endemic to shady mountain areas in the Caucasus.It is widely listed under its synonym Chiastophyllum oppositifolium. It is a hardy, prostrate evergreen growing to 25 cm (10 in) with large fleshy leaves and racemes of tiny, sulphur-yellow flowers. It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
Umbilicus oppositifolius has moderate disease resistance but is more sensitive to humidity and excessive watering. It also becomes more vulnerable to disease when it lacks light and is overwatered. In terms of care, Umbilicus oppositifolius is drought-tolerant and can withstand long stretches without watering. It needs little fertilizer and only occasional pruning. These characteristics make it suitable for people at any experience level, especially those who prefer to spend less time on plant care and who may sometimes be away from home for extended periods. It’s a good option for anyone who does not want to invest a lot of time in maintenance yet still wants an easy-to-care-for plant.
How to keep Chiastophyllum Oppositifolium.
Light
Umbilicus oppositifolius is native to habitats with dappled light, such as forest understories or rocky sites that offer natural shade. It favors partial sun but can also tolerate full sun.
Temperature
Umbilicus oppositifolius prefers warm conditions and needs higher temperatures during the growing season to encourage growth and metabolic activity. It does well with plenty of sunlight, suitable moisture, and good air circulation. However, it is prone to harm from overly low temperatures and from too much watering. It is also important to maintain balance and avoid excessively high temperatures and excessively dry conditions.
Fertilizer
For Umbilicus oppositifolius, light fertilizer applications 1-2 times a year during the growing season are adequate. Do not fertilize in winter or in summer when the plant is dormant. Use less fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying fertilizer. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and promotes flowering.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent, Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Chiastophyllum
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 15 cm
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 0.76 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Summer
- Native Area
- Armenia
Other names.
