The correct spelling of the plant commonly known as orpine is "orpine." The word is pronounced /ˈɔːpaɪn/ (ORE-pine). It is a succulent plant with green leaves that turn red in sunlight. The spelling of this word can be confusing as it is often misspelled as "orpine" or "orpiment." However, the correct spelling is "orpine," which is reflected in its Latin name, Sedum telephium var. maximum, where "orpine" is derived from the Latin word "orpimentum."
Orpine is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the family Crassulaceae, native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is characterized by its fleshy leaves, succulent stems, and clusters of small, star-shaped flowers. The term "orpine" typically refers to the species Sedum telephium, although it can also apply to other closely related species within the same genus.
The leaves of orpine are thick and typically arranged in rosettes, often with a blue-green or grayish coloration. The succulent stems of the plant store water, enabling it to withstand drought conditions. The flowers of orpine are typically pink to purple in color, although certain cultivars may also exhibit white or red blooms. They are borne in dense clusters at the top of the stems and are highly attractive to pollinators such as butterflies and bees.
Due to its resilience and low maintenance requirements, orpine is often cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight, making it suitable for various environments. Orpine also has medicinal uses and has been traditionally employed in herbal remedies for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.
In summary, orpine is a species of perennial plant with fleshy leaves, succulent stems, and clusters of small, showy flowers. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family, is native to Europe and parts of Asia, and is commonly utilized in ornamental gardening and herbal medicine.
A wild succulent herbaceous plant, found abundantly in some parts of England, called also the rose-plant.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "orpine" has its origins in the Latin term "orpimentum", which means "yellow orpiment". Orpiment is a mineral that has a bright yellow color and was highly valued for its use as a pigment in various forms of artwork. Over time, the term "orpimentum" got transformed into "orpine" and came to be used to refer to a specific flowering plant that has yellow or reddish flowers. The plant is also known as "sedum telephium" or "Hylotelephium telephium" and belongs to the Crassulaceae family.