How to Grow Orpine
Orpine
Sedum telephium
herbOrpine is a hardy, succulent perennial with thick, fleshy leaves and clusters of small pink or red flowers that bloom in late summer. Also known as livelong or frog's-bit, it's a low-maintenance plant valued for both ornamental and traditional medicinal purposes. This drought-tolerant perennial is extremely easy to grow and requires minimal care once established.
When should you plant Orpine in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Orpine timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Orpine
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Orpine
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Orpine dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; extremely cold hardy
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Get my Orpine timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung rosettes of thick, oval green leaves forming at ground level
Water lightly to establish roots. Ensure excellent drainage. Protect from excessive moisture.
Vegetative Growth
2-3 monthsStems elongate to 12-24 inches tall with increasingly robust fleshy foliage
Minimal watering needed. Allow soil to dry between waterings. No fertilizer necessary; lean soil is preferred.
Flowering
4-8 weeksTerminal flower clusters (cymes) develop pink, red, or white 5-petaled flowers in dense heads
Continue reduced watering. Full sun encourages better flower color and density. Deadheading extends bloom.
Seed Development
2-4 weeksFlowers fade and small seed pods form while remaining flowers continue opening
Allow some flowers to remain for seed collection if desired. Cut stems back after flowering unless saving seeds.
Dormancy
3-4 monthsFoliage dies back in winter; plant appears dormant with just basal crown visible
Provide excellent drainage to prevent winter rot. No water needed. Plant is fully winter hardy and will return in spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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and
Copper barriers, hand-picking, slug traps; less problematic in well-draining soil
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Improve drainage immediately; reduce watering; repot into dry soil if severe
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Spray with insecticidal soap; isolate affected plants; improve air circulation
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Increase humidity slightly; spray with water; use neem oil if severe
Uses
Traditional wound healing
MedicinalOrpine leaves have been used in folk medicine for centuries to dress wounds and reduce inflammation due to their mucilaginous properties. The plant was traditionally called 'livelong' for its reputation as a longevity herb. [source]
Digestive and anti-inflammatory remedy
MedicinalTraditional herbalists used orpine leaf infusions for digestive complaints and inflammation. Modern phytochemistry has identified tannins and other compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Ornamental groundcover
HouseholdOrpine's attractive fleshy foliage and pink-red flower clusters make it an excellent choice for rock gardens, green roofs, succulent gardens, and border edging. It requires virtually no maintenance once established. [source]
Edible leaves
CulinaryYoung orpine leaves are edible with a slightly tangy, succulent flavor and can be added to salads or used as a garnish. They contain beneficial minerals and have a refreshing taste. [source]
Pollinator magnet
WildlifeThe late-summer flower clusters attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects when many other plants have finished blooming. This makes orpine valuable for pollinator gardens and late-season forage. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For medicinal use, harvest leaves and stems after flowering in late summer or early fall when nutrient content is highest. Dry leaves on screens in shade for 1-2 weeks. For seed collection, allow flowers to fully mature and dry on plant, then collect before they shatter. Propagate by division in spring or fall, or root individual leaves in sandy soil.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Orpine's common name 'livelong' comes from European folklore that the plant would live for years if simply placed in a room without water, reflecting its remarkable drought tolerance.
- 🌱 In Victorian times, orpine was used in a divination game called 'Midsummer men' where two plants were placed together on Midsummer's Eve, and their behavior was believed to predict the romantic fate of the person performing the ritual.
- 🌱 Orpine is one of the most cold-hardy sedums and can survive winter in zones as cold as 3a, making it an excellent succulent choice for northern gardeners who want reliability.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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