Orostachys japonica facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Orostachys japonica |
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Cotyledon japonica Maxim. |
Orostachys japonica, also known as rock pine, is a cool flowering plant. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family, which includes many succulents. You can find this plant growing naturally in East Asia, especially on mountain rocks in countries like Korea, Japan, and China.
About Rock Pine
Orostachys japonica is a special plant. It can be a biennial or a perennial plant. A biennial plant lives for two years. A perennial plant lives for more than two years. This plant usually grows to about 10 centimeters (4 inches) tall.
Its leaves are shaped like small spatulas. They grow in a circle, like a rosette. The flowers of the rock pine bloom from September to October. Each flower has both male and female parts.
Where Rock Pine Grows
Rock pine gets its name because it looks like a tiny pine tree cone. It also loves to grow on mountain rocks!
This plant likes sunny spots or places with a little bit of shade. It grows best in soil that drains water well. It can even grow in soil that doesn't have many nutrients. Rock pine is happy in sandy or loamy soils. It can also grow in acidic, neutral, or basic soils.
Its flowers are white and have five petals. When the flowers bloom and make seeds, the plant dries out.
Special Uses of Rock Pine
The leaves and stems of Orostachys japonica have special ingredients. These include things like fatty acid esters and flavonoids. Scientists are studying these parts. They believe they might help with certain health issues.
In Korea, people have traditionally used this plant. They use it to help with problems like gum inflammation. They also use it for other health concerns. Scientists are still researching how these plants can help people.
Images for kids
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A close-up of Orostachys japonica growing on rocks.
See also
In Spanish: Orostachys japonica para niños
