<h1>Orpine, Sedum telephium</h1>

Orpine, also known by its scientific name Hylotelephium telephium, and previously as Sedum telephium, is a succulent perennial plant native to Eurasia. It's part of the Crassulaceae family and is known for its robust and easy-care nature. The plant has many common names, including frog's-stomach, harping Johnny, life-everlasting, live-forever, midsummer-men, Orphan John, and witch's moneybags, reflecting its diverse cultural significance and appearance.

Orpine grows erect or ascending stems, which can reach up to 60 cm in height, with dull green, sometimes reddish-tinged leaves. These leaves are oblong, elliptic to narrowly ovate, usually with strongly toothed margins, and can be up to 6 cm long and 2.5 cm wide. The star-shaped flowers are reddish-purple and appear in dense clusters, usually from late summer to fall. It's a hardy plant that dies back to the ground in winter, with new growth appearing in spring.

This plant has adapted to a variety of environments and can be found in fields, around hedges, and on gravelly or calcareous soils. It's well-known for its drought tolerance and can thrive in areas from USDA hardiness zones 5a to 9b, which corresponds to a wide range of temperatures.

Orpine has been used in both culinary and medicinal contexts. Its young leaves can be eaten raw, and both the leaves and firm tubers can be cooked. Historically, the Romans used it to treat wounds, and it has been employed to treat internal ulcers. Interestingly, it has also been part of love-divination practices.

For gardeners interested in cultivating orpine, it prefers full sun but can tolerate light to partial shade in hot climates. It requires well-drained soil and does not need rich soil to flourish. The "soak and dry" method is recommended for watering, ensuring the soil is completely wet before allowing it to dry out completely. Annual feeding with a balanced fertilizer in spring as new growth appears is beneficial for its health and vigor.

Propagation can be done through seeds, division, or stem cuttings, making it a versatile plant for gardeners looking to expand their collection or share with others.