Stonecrop (Hylotelephium erythrostictum 'Mediovariegatum')

Overview

Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’, commonly known as Stonecrop, is treasured for its exceptional, long-lasting foliage that offers sharp contrast in the garden long before the flower buds appear. This herbaceous perennial is valued for its hardiness and ability to thrive where other plants might struggle. Its fleshy, somewhat succulent leaves are variegated, typically featuring splashes of yellow and green, providing year-round interest.

This particular Stonecrop variety is an excellent addition for gardeners seeking low maintenance structure in their landscape design. Though it prefers well-drained conditions, the Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’ surprisingly tolerates heavier clay soils, adding flexibility to its placement. It also boasts excellent drought and heat tolerance once established, making it reliable across varied summer conditions.

The late-season flowering period, extending from August into the frost, offers vibrant pink flower heads when many spring and summer perennials begin to wane. This dependable bloom time, combined with its striking variegated foliage, ensures that Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’ remains an outstanding feature throughout the entire growing season, attracting beneficial pollinators in the process.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Crassulaceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-9
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 1-1.5 ft
  • Spread: 1-1.5 ft
• Bloom Time: August to frost
• Bloom Description: Pink
• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Water Needs: Dry to medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Planting this Stonecrop variety is best accomplished in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild, allowing the root system to establish before extreme summer heat or winter cold sets in. Locate Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’ in a location receiving full sun to maximize both the variegation of the foliage and the density of the late-season bloom. While average, dry to medium, well-drained soil is ideal, you will find this species performs surprisingly well even in heavy clay, showcasing its robust nature.

Care for this plant is refreshingly simple due to its inherent hardiness. Water deeply but allow the soil to dry out between irrigation events, especially once established, as this Stonecrop thrives on neglect and heavy watering can lead to rot. Fertilization is rarely necessary; over-fertilizing can result in floppy growth that compromises the upright clump habit. Deadheading spent flower heads is optional; leaving them on can provide winter interest or seeds for birds.

This perennial is exceptionally resilient. It withstands periods of drought and intense heat without significant fuss, a trait shared by many members of the Crassulaceae family. In colder zones (3-4), ensure better drainage over winter, though minimal winter pruning is required other than cutting back old stalks in early spring before new growth initiates.

Landscape Uses

The variegated foliage of Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’ makes it an invaluable textural element near the front of perennial borders or rock gardens. Its upright, clumping habit and medium height (1 to 1.5 ft) distinguish it as an effective edging material, clearly defining pathways or the perimeter of garden beds. Planting these stonecrops in groups or mass plantings creates a dramatic ribbon of color contrast against solid green or darker foliage plants.

Due to its tolerance for dry, poor, or rocky soils, this Stonecrop is perfect for utilitarian areas where rich compost is hard to maintain. It pairs beautifully with other late-season bloomers like asters or hardy mums, ensuring continuous color into autumn. Consider also using Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’ as a specimen plant where its unique leaf structure can be appreciated up close, or in containers that benefit from drought-tolerant structure.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy
• Good Cut
• Good Dried

Noteworthy Characteristics

Hylotelephium is a genus of about 33 species of drought-tolerant herbaceous perennials native to Asia, Europe, and North America. They are commonly called stonecrop and are excellent plants for fall gardens. A clump-forming perennial that features masses of tiny, star-like, bright pink flowers atop stems of fleshy, succulent-like, variegated yellow and green leaves. Foliage is effective throughout the growing season, and the long late summer to fall bloom period attracts butterflies and bees.

Tolerances

• Rabbit
• Deer
• Drought
• Clay Soil
• Dry Soil
• Shallow-Rocky Soil
• Air Pollution

Potential Problems

Fortunately, Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’ suffers from virtually no serious insect or disease problems, making it suitable for organic gardening practices. The primary mistake gardeners make is providing too much excessive moisture, particularly in poorly draining soils during the dormant season, which can invite fungal issues like root rot. Ensure sharp drainage to avoid this pitfall, and pests like slugs or aphids are generally not a concern for this tough, fleshy-leaved perennial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Stonecrop suitable for?

This Stonecrop variety thrives across a wide range, suitable for USDA Zones 3 through 9, offering robust performance across much of the temperate landscape.

How large does Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’ grow?

This perennial typically reaches a mature height between 1 and 1.5 feet tall, with a similar spread of 1 to 1.5 feet, forming a neatly mounded clump.

What sun exposure does Stonecrop need?

For the best coloration and strongest stems, Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’ requires full sun exposure throughout the day.

When does Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’ bloom?

This plant rewards gardeners with masses of attractive pink flowers beginning in August and continuing reliably until the first hard frost.

Conclusion

The combination of low maintenance requirements, drought tolerance, and striking yellow-green variegated foliage makes Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’ a standout choice for late-season impact. This Stonecrop delivers reliable structure and vital late-season color. Before planting, confirm your growing site receives full sun and offers at least medium drainage to ensure your variegated variety thrives for years to come.

Wildlife Benefits

As a significant late-season bloomer, this Stonecrop variety provides crucial nectar resources when many summer flowers have faded. The dense clusters of small pink flowers are highly attractive to numerous beneficial insects, specifically butterflies that rely on late pollen and nectar sources before migrating or entering winter dormancy. Supporting biodiversity is easy when you incorporate tough, reliable bloomers like Hylotelephium erythrostictum ‘Mediovariegatum’ into your beds.

Propagation Tips

Dividing clumps of Stonecrop is the easiest and most effective method for propagation, and it helps rejuvenate the parent plant. This should ideally be done in the early spring just as new growth emerges, or in early autumn. Dig up the entire clump, gently tease apart root sections, ensuring each division has a healthy section of roots and foliage, and replant immediately into prepared soil in its new location. Stem cuttings also root readily in dry soil mid-summer.