The talinum paniculatum (tal-i-num pan-ick-yoo-lay-tum) is a succulent that is a perennial flowering plant.
It is home to the Talinaceae family, which includes 28 other species of flowering succulents. The talinum paniculatum is native to the United States and the Caribbean.
The plant is a shrub-type plant that blooms with bright pink flowers in the spring.
Its stems are long and thin, producing fruits resembling small jewels, which is why it’s called “Jewels of Opar.”
The plant is also known as:
- Pink baby’s breath
- Fame flower
Since the talinum paniculatum is a succulent, its leaves hold in water and do not need to be watered too frequently.
However, it does need lots of light and does not survive in cold weather.
Quick Facts On Talinum Paniculatum
- Family: Talinaceae
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 65° to 75° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Only in dry conditions.
- Fertilizer: 15-15-15 quick-release fertilizer
- Propagation: Take cuttings and repot the plants.
- Common Problems: Spider mites, overwatering
Talinum Paniculatum Care
How Big Do Talinum Plants Grow?
Talinum paniculatum can reach up to 3′ feet when fully grown. There are other species of talinum plants that only reach about 2′ feet high.
However, the talinum paniculatum gives a tree-like appearance with its height.
Its leaves are lime green with long stems and are quite thin, holding up its fruits. The fruit stems grow out from the shrub, reaching the height of the plant.
When Does The Talinum Plant Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The talinum paniculatum produces bright pink and red flowers in the spring and summer. It is a perennial plant only blooming once a year.
The flowers do not give off a noticeable fragrance. However, they are usually bright in color, creating a jewel-like resemblance.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
The talinum paniculatum plant enjoys and thrives in full sun. Therefore, they can be outdoors in the sunniest part of the yard.
It is best to keep them indoors in a place that gets as much sun as possible. During the winter, they should remain in a sunny spot.
The plant does well in bright indirect light where it can remain cool and not become burnt by the sun.
Without the bright light it needs, the talinum paniculatum will not bloom, or the flowers will be dull in color when it does.
When it comes to temperature, it grows well at 65° to 75° degrees Fahrenheit.
The lowest temperature the plant can survive at is 50° degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, it does not do well in cold winter climates.
The talinum paniculatum thrives in weather that is warmer.
How And When To Water And Fertilize The Talinum Paniculatum?
Since the talinum paniculatum plant is a succulent, it does not need to be watered that often.
However, giving it water every month to every other month and letting the soil completely dry out will aid your plant’s survival.
It is best to avoid watering as much as possible during the winter months since it is not in bloom.
When fertilizing the talinum paniculatum, you should use a quick-release fertilizer with a ratio of 15-15-15 or 10-10-10.
It is best to fertilize your talinum paniculatum in early spring or summer before it blooms or while it is in bloom.
After fertilizing your talinum paniculatum, be sure to water it thoroughly.\
However, if you forget to fertilize your plant, the talinum paniculatum will easily survive. It is a hardy plant that does not require much maintenance.
What Is The Best Soil For The Talinum Fame Flower And When Should You Transplant?
The best soil for a talinum paniculatum is any regular potting soil with a bit of sand to help with drainage. However, they will normally tolerate poor soil.
If you add perlite to your talinum paniculatum’s soil, be sure to water it less than usual since it will increase the water retention.
If you have an older talinum paniculatum, you do not need to transplant it. However, a young plant will benefit from new soil and be transplanted as the root system grows.
However, be sure the talinum paniculatum is strong and good before transplanting it, as the process may be stressful for your plant.
Does The Talinum Fame Flower Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
The talinum paniculatum is a very easy-going plant. However, you can cut back the dead blooms after the summer to encourage new growth for the next blooming season.
You can even deadhead the wilted flowers in spring and summer if you want to encourage more blooms.
How To Propagate The Jewels Of Opar Plant?
In the summer, during peak growth, you can take cuttings of your jewels of opar and propagate them.
To propagate, take your cuttings and plant them in sandy soil. Water the cuttings lightly to encourage growth after repotting them.
If you are starting from seeds, take them in the spring and plant them in sandy soil. Water them lightly and wait for them to sprout.
Let the soil dry out before watering your cuttings or seeds.
Jewels Of Opar Plant Pests And Diseases
Spider mites tend to attack drying plants similar to jewels of opar. This may be a common issue for your succulent shrub.
If you notice an issue, mist the plant with mild soap and water. If this does not help, you can find a miticide that will put the issue to an end.
Jewels of opar may also have problems with aphids, which will require insecticide.
If you plant your jewels of opar in your garden, you can release ladybugs to eat and kill the aphid infestation.