Striking Sedum Plants: Low-Maintenance Beauty for Your Garden

Sedum Common Names

Roseroot, Sedum, Stonecrop

Sedum Phonetic Spelling

SEE-dum

Sedum Cultivars/Varieties:

So few of so many choices:

African Sunset: Glossy, purple foliage with red stems and flowers.
Birthday Party: Bright pink flowers with lime green leaves.
Blue Spruce: Low-growing, blue foliage, grows quickly.
Chocolate Drop: Mounding, brown leaves, pink flowers.
Cutting Edge: Short, clumping, vigorous.
Dazzleberry: Compact, blue-grey foliage, large red flowers.
Firecracker: Hardy, compact, red foliage, pink flowerheads.
Garnet Brocade: Compact, bronze foliage, red flowers.
Hopewell: Mounded, blue-grey leaves, pink flowers.
Lime Twister: Compact, variegated foliage, bright pink flowers.
Lime Zinger: Hardy, compact plant, small green leaves with red borders.
Matrona: Pale pink flowering plant with fleshy, gray-green leaves.
Mr. Goodbud: Large, purple flowers or red stems, red-tinted foliage.
Peace and Joy: Magenta flowers on foot-long stems.
Pillow Talk: Purple-red stems, pink blossoms.
Plum Perfection: Mounding, grey-green dense foliage, pink flowers.
Purple Emperor: Upright, masses of pink-purple flowers.
Rock Star: Pointed foliage, late blooming pink flowers.
Rosy Glow: Bluish green leaves, clusters of dark ruby flowers.
Soft Cloud: Grey-green foliage, pink flowers last until winter.
SunSparkler® Series:
Thundercloud: Pointed foliage, star-shaped white flowers.
Touchdown Teak: Glossy red-brown to purple-brown leaves, red stems, rose-red flowers.
Twinkling Star: Upright, compact, yellow-green flowers.

Sedum Attributes:

Genus: Sedum
Family: Crassulaceae
Life Cycle: Perennial
Propagation: Leaf cuttings, seed, stem cuttings
Origin: East Asia
Wildlife Value: Attracts bees and birds
Height: 0.3 - 2 feet
Width: 2 - 3 feet
Plant Type: Ground cover, herbaceous perennial, houseplant, succulent
Leaves: Broadleaf evergreen, deciduous, fleshy, flat to terete
Growth Rate: Slow
Maintenance: Low-medium
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Clay, loam, sand, shallow rocky
Drainage: Good drainage
Hardiness Zones: 3a-9b
Flowers: Showy, star-shaped, various colors
Flowering Time: Spring, summer, fall
Landscape Uses: Containers, hanging baskets, houseplants, slopes, rock gardens, ground covers, vertical spaces
Attracts: Bees, butterflies, pollinators, songbirds
Resistance: Drought, dry soil, foot traffic, heat, poor soil

Hylotelephium vs. Sedum: A Botanical Shift

Hylotelephium is a genus of flowering plants that was once included within the genus Sedum. Due to recent taxonomic revisions, several species that were previously classified as Sedum are now considered to belong to the genus Hylotelephium.

Key Differences:

While Hylotelephium and Sedum share many similarities, there are some distinct characteristics that differentiate them:

Growth Habits: Hylotelephium species tend to have a more upright and robust growth habit compared to the often sprawling or ground-hugging nature of many Sedum species.
Leaf Structure: The leaves of Hylotelephium plants are typically thicker and more succulent than those of many Sedum species.
Flower Clusters: Hylotelephium flowers are often arranged in dense, flat-topped clusters, whereas Sedum flowers can be arranged in various patterns.

Examples of Species Now Classified as Hylotelephium:

Hylotelephium spectabile (formerly Sedum spectabile): This is a popular perennial with showy pink or purple flowers.
Hylotelephium telephium (formerly Sedum telephium): This species is known for its upright growth habit and clusters of small, pink or purple flowers.
Hylotelephium sieboldii (formerly Sedum sieboldii): This species has delicate, rounded leaves and clusters of pink or purple flowers.

Common Name Usage:

In many gardening contexts, the term "Sedum" is still used interchangeably with "Hylotelephium". However, it's important to be aware of the taxonomic changes and to use the correct genus name when referring to specific species.

In essence, while Hylotelephium and Sedum share many similarities, the former genus now represents a distinct group of plants within the Crassulaceae family.

Reclassified Sedum species

Several Sedum species have been reclassified into the genus Hylotelephium. This change is based on recent genetic studies that suggest these plants are more closely related to Hylotelephium than to Sedum.

Here are some of the most common Sedum species that have been reclassified:

Sedum telephium: This popular species, often known as Autumn Joy or Orpine, is now classified as Hylotelephium telephium.
Sedum spectabile: Another well-known species, often referred to as Showy Stonecrop, is now classified as Hylotelephium spectabile.
Sedum erythrostictum: This species is now classified as Hylotelephium erythrostictum.

It's important to note that while the botanical names have changed, the common names and characteristics of these plants remain the same. So, if you're familiar with Autumn Joy or Showy Stonecrop, you can still use these terms to refer to them.

What Is Sedum?

Sedum, commonly known as stonecrop, is a large genus of succulent flowering plants in the family Crassulaceae. There are about four hundred–five hundred species of sedum, found in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with a few species in Africa and South America.

Sedums are known for their fleshy, water-storing leaves. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from low-growing groundcovers to tall, upright shrubs. Some sedums have brightly colored flowers, while others have more subdued blooms.

Sedums are popular garden plants because they are easy to care for and drought tolerant. They can be grown in full sun or partial shade, and they do not need a lot of water. Many sedums are also deer-resistant, making them a good choice for areas where deer are a problem.

Here are some of the most popular types of sedums:

Autumn Joy: This upright sedum has pinkish-purple flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall.
Coral Reef: This low-growing sedum has bright pink flowers that bloom in midsummer.
Dragon's Blood: This sedum has dark red leaves that turn even redder in the fall.
Little Gem: This miniature sedum has yellow flowers that bloom in early summer.
Silver Blob: This low-growing sedum has silvery-blue leaves.

Sedums can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. They can be planted in rock gardens, borders, or containers. They can also be used as groundcovers or edging plants.

If you are looking for a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant for your garden, sedum is a great option. With so many different varieties to choose from, you are sure to find a sedum that is perfect for your needs.

How Do I Plant Sedum?

Planting sedums is a breeze! Here is how you can do it:

Step 1: Choose your timing and location

Timing: Ideally, plant sedums in the spring after the last frost has passed. However, you can also plant them in late summer or early fall. Just keep in mind that newly planted sedums will need more watering in warmer months.
Location: Sedums thrive in full sun or part sun. Opt for a well-drained spot with sandy or gravelly soil. They dislike waterlogged conditions, so avoid areas with heavy clay soil.

Step 2: Prepare the soil and planting hole

Soil: If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost, sand, or perlite to improve drainage. Aim for a well-drained, gritty mix.
Planting hole: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of your sedum plant.

Step 3: Plant your sedum

Carefully remove the sedum from its pot or container. Gently tease apart the roots if they are tightly bound.
Place the sedum in the planting hole at the same depth it was in the pot.
Backfill the hole with soil and press down gently to firm it around the plant.

Step 4: Water and care for your sedum

Water your newly planted sedum thoroughly so the soil is evenly moist.
Continue to water regularly until the plant is established (usually about 4-6 weeks). Once established, sedums are very drought-tolerant and rarely need watering, except during prolonged dry spells.
Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
You do not need to fertilize sedums much, if at all. A light application of compost in spring is sufficient.

Bonus tips:

You can also propagate sedums by stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Simply take a piece of stem or leaf and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep it moist and in a bright spot until it roots.
Deadheading spent flowers is not necessary but can encourage more blooms.
Mulching around your sedums with gravel or crushed rock can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With proper care, your sedums will thrive and reward you with their beautiful foliage and flowers for years to come!

What Are The Different Varieties Of Sedum?

There are over four hundred species of sedum, all with unique characteristics and appearances. Here are a few popular varieties you might love for your garden:

Autumn Joy: This upright sedum boasts pinkish-purple flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. It matures to about 18-24 inches tall and thrives in full sun or part shade.
Coral Reef: This low-growing sedum spreads nicely as a groundcover and features bright pink flowers that bloom in midsummer. It grows up to 4-6 inches tall and prefers full sun.
Dragon’s Blood: This sedum stands out for its dark red leaves that turn even redder in the fall. It reaches 4-6 inches in height and loves the full sun.
Little Gem: This miniature sedum is perfect for borders or rock gardens, thanks to its charming yellow flowers that bloom in early summer. It grows only 2-3 inches tall and thrives in full sun or part shade.
Silver Blob: This low-growing sedum forms a lovely mat with silvery-blue leaves. It matures to 2-3 inches tall and appreciates full sun.

These are just a few of the many stunning sedum varieties available. When choosing yours, consider the desired mature size, bloom color and time, preferred light conditions, and how you plan to use the plant in your garden.

No matter your pick, sedums are sure to add beauty and low-maintenance charm to your outdoor space!

How Do I Care For Sedum In My Garden?

Taking care of sedums in your garden is a breeze! They are known for their low-maintenance nature, but here is how to ensure they thrive:

Sun and Soil:

Sun: Most sedums love full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight). A few varieties tolerate partial shade but may have less vibrant foliage or fewer flowers.
Soil: Well-drained soil is crucial. They thrive in sandy or gravelly mixes that prevent waterlogging. Amend clay soil with compost, sand, or perlite for better drainage.

Watering:

Newly planted: Water regularly for the first 4-6 weeks to establish the roots.
Established: Once established, they are incredibly drought-tolerant. Water only during prolonged dry spells when the soil feels completely dry to the touch. Overwatering is their biggest enemy.

Feeding:

Fertilization: Sedums generally do not need much fertilizer. A light application of compost in spring is sufficient.

Maintenance:

Deadheading: Not necessary, but if you prefer tidy plants, you can remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Pruning: Pruning is not essential, but you can lightly trim overgrown stems in spring or early summer to maintain shape.
Dividing: Divide mature clumps every 3-5 years if they become overcrowded. Simply use a sharp knife to separate sections and replant them in well-draining soil.

Additional Tips:

Consider mulching around sedums with gravel or crushed rock to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Sedums are susceptible to few pests or diseases. Watch out for mealybugs or aphids and address them with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.
Most sedums are frost-hardy, but you can protect tender varieties with a light mulch before winter.

Remember, the key to happy sedums is well-drained soil, plenty of sunshine, and infrequent watering. Enjoy their beauty and minimal upkeep!

Do Sedum Plants Attract Pollinators?

Sedum plants are absolutely pollinator magnets! They attract a variety of pollinators like bees, butterflies, moths, and even hummingbirds with their irresistible combination of:

Blooming Time: Many sedum varieties bloom from late spring to early fall, providing a valuable nectar source for pollinators throughout the season. Some, like Autumn Joy, even bloom into early fall, extending the feast for these important guests.
Flower Shape: Their star-shaped or flat clusters of flowers offer easy landing pads and access to nectar for pollinators of all sizes.
Nectar and Pollen: Sedums produce ample nectar and pollen, making them a worthwhile stop for busy pollinators.
Color Variety: Sedums come in a delightful range of colors like pink, yellow, red, and purple, which are visual cues for pollinators to identify them as a food source.

Here are some specific examples of how sedums attract different pollinators:

Bees: Bees love the abundance of nectar and pollen in sedum flowers, especially early in the season when other flowers may be scarce.
Butterflies: The flat, open flowers of sedums are perfect for butterflies to land on and sip nectar. They are particularly attracted to brightly colored varieties like Coral Reef.
Moths: Some sedum varieties, like Autumn Joy, release their sweet fragrance at night, attracting night-flying pollinators like moths.
Hummingbirds: Although not as common as other pollinators, some hummingbird species may be drawn to the nectar produced by taller sedum varieties like Dragon's Blood.

By planting sedums in your garden, you are not just adding beautiful, low-maintenance plants, you are also contributing to a healthy ecosystem by supporting pollinators. So, go ahead and give these pollinator-friendly plants a try, and enjoy the vibrant colors and buzzing life they bring to your garden!

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Sedum?

Fortunately, sedums are generally considered resilient plants with few common pests or diseases. However, being vigilant can help you address any potential issues before they get out of hand. Here are some things to watch out for:

Pests:

Mealybugs: These fuzzy white insects suck the sap from stems and leaves, causing stunting and yellowing. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a blast of water.
Aphids: These tiny green or black insects cluster on leaves and stems, feeding on sap. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Slugs and snails: These slimy creatures munch on leaves and stems, leaving behind holes and slime trails. Handpicking, diatomaceous earth, or beer traps can deter them.

Diseases:

Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. It leads to rotting roots and wilting leaves. Prevention is key, with proper watering and well-draining soil. Infected plants may need to be removed.
Leaf spots: These brown or grey spots on leaves can be caused by fungal or bacterial infections. They often occur in humid conditions. Fungicides or bactericides can help, but prevention through proper watering and air circulation is important.
Powdery mildew: This white fungal growth on leaves can stunt growth and reduce plant vigor. Fungicides can help but providing good air circulation is crucial for prevention.

Signs to Watch For:

Discolored leaves: Wilting, yellowing, or browning leaves can indicate issues like overwatering, underwatering, pests, or diseases.
Stunted growth: Slow growth or poor flowering can be caused by various factors, including nutrient deficiencies, pests, or diseases.
Holes or damage: Visible holes or chewed leaves are likely due to pests like slugs, snails, or caterpillars.
Presence of insects or fungal growth: Seeing mealybugs, aphids, or powdery mildew directly indicates pest or disease issues.

General Tips:

Proper watering: Avoid overwatering and ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Good air circulation: Provide adequate spacing between plants and avoid overcrowding to discourage fungal diseases.
Cleanliness: Remove fallen leaves and debris to reduce pest hiding places.
Monitoring: Regularly inspect your sedums for any signs of pests or diseases to address them promptly.

By observing your plants and practicing proper care, you can minimize the risk of pests and diseases affecting your sedums, allowing them to thrive and bring beauty to your garden.

Can I Use Sedum In Floral Arrangements?

Sedum, with its diverse textures, colors, and long vase life, is a fantastic addition to floral arrangements. Here is why:

Versatility:

Foliage: The fleshy, succulent leaves come in various shapes and shades, from plump ovals to needle-like forms. Colors range from cool blue-greens and silvers to warm yellows, oranges, and deep reds. This variety allows you to add unique textures and pops of color to your arrangements.
Flowers: While not the flashiest, sedum flowers offer delicate star-shaped blooms in pink, yellow, white, and red. They add a touch of sweetness and charm, especially when used in rustic or cottagecore arrangements.
Long-lasting: Sedum's succulent nature translates to exceptional vase life. They can easily stay fresh for up to two weeks, adding lasting beauty to your arrangements.

Easy to Use:

Preparation: Simply cut stems at an angle with sharp shears and remove any lower leaves that might submerge in water.
Placement: Play with textures and heights by using sedum as filler foliage or focal points. Pair them with other flowers like roses, lilies, or daisies for a vibrant contrast.

Here are some specific ideas for using sedum in floral arrangements:

Rustic charm: Combine blue-green sedum foliage with sunflowers, zinnias, and chamomile for a touch of farmhouse chic.
Modern elegance: Pair deep red sedum leaves with white calla lilies and black dahlias for a dramatic and sophisticated look.
Succulent symphony: Create a textural masterpiece by combining various sedum varieties with other succulents like echeveria and graptopetalum.
Fall focal point: Use Autumn Joy sedum, with its vibrant pink-red flowers, as a stunning centerpiece in autumnal arrangements alongside pumpkins, gourds, and dried leaves.

Remember, there are no strict rules! Experiment with different sedum types, colors, and combinations to create unique and eye-catching floral arrangements that reflect your personal style.

So, do not hesitate to embrace the beauty and versatility of sedum in your next floral creation!

Is Sedum Invasive?

The answer to whether or not sedums are invasive is a bit nuanced, and it depends on the specific variety and the local environment.

Generally, most sedum varieties are not considered invasive in North America. They tend to spread slowly and are well-behaved in garden settings. Their shallow root systems make them easy to control and remove if needed.

However, there are a few exceptions:

Sedum acre (Goldmoss Stonecrop): This variety can be mildly invasive in some regions, particularly in disturbed habitats or open areas. It spreads readily through stolons and can form dense mats that outcompete native plants.
Sedum reflexum (Blue Spruce Stonecrop): This variety can also be mildly invasive in certain areas, especially in moist, shady locations. It can spread through both seeds and vegetative means.

Here are some factors to consider when determining if a sedum variety might be invasive in your area:

Climate: Certain climates, such as warm and humid regions, may be more conducive to invasive growth in some sedum varieties.
Habitat: Disturbed soils or open areas provide opportunities for certain sedums to spread more easily.
Native species: The presence of native plants that occupy similar niches might be threatened by a competitive, invasive sedum.

To be safe, it is always a good idea to research the specific sedum variety you are interested in planting before introducing it to your garden. Check with local nurseries, landscaping professionals, or botanical gardens for guidance on invasive plants in your area.

Alternatives to potentially invasive sedums:

Many beautiful and well-behaved sedum varieties exist, such as Autumn Joy, Coral Reef, and Little Gem. These are excellent choices for gardeners looking for attractive, low-maintenance plants without concerns about invasiveness.
Consider native plants as alternatives. Native species are adapted to your local ecosystem and are less likely to become invasive.

In conclusion, while most sedums are not inherently invasive, it is crucial to be informed about the specific variety you are considering and its potential behavior in your environment. Responsible planting choices can help maintain the health and biodiversity of your local ecosystem while enjoying the beauty and benefits of these versatile plants.

When Is The Best Time To Divide Sedum Plants?

The best time to divide sedum plants depends on two factors: the type of sedum and your climate.

For most upright, clump-forming sedums like Autumn Joy:

Ideal Timing: Early spring just as new growth begins to appear. This gives the divisions enough time to establish themselves before winter.
Alternative Timing: You can also divide them in late summer or early fall after they have bloomed, but their recovery will be slower.

For low-growing, mat-forming sedums:

Timing is less critical: You can divide them anytime during the growing season, from spring to fall. However, avoid dividing during extreme heat or drought periods.

Climate considerations:

In mild climates: You can divide sedums earlier or later in the season than in colder climates.
In colder climates: Wait until spring when the danger of frost has passed to avoid damaging new growth.

Here are some additional tips for dividing sedums:

Use a sharp knife or spade to divide the clumps into sections.
Each section should have several shoots and a portion of the root system.
Plant the divisions immediately in well-drained soil.
Water the newly planted divisions well and keep them moist until they are established.

No matter when you choose to divide your sedums, remember to be gentle with the plants and provide them with proper care afterwards. With a little attention, they will quickly recover and continue to thrive in your garden.

Pros and Cons of Sedum

Pros:

Low Maintenance: Sedum plants are generally drought-tolerant and require minimal care once established.
Versatility: They can be used in various settings, from rock gardens to containers.
Attracts Wildlife: Sedum's flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while the seeds can be enjoyed by birds.
Drought Tolerance: Their succulent leaves store water, allowing them to withstand dry conditions.
Hardy: Most Sedum species are cold-tolerant and can thrive in a variety of climates.
Beautiful Foliage and Flowers: Sedum offers a range of foliage colors and attractive blooms.

Cons:

Spreading Nature: Some Sedum species can be vigorous spreaders, potentially becoming invasive in certain environments.
Foot Traffic Sensitivity: While they can tolerate light foot traffic, heavy foot traffic can damage Sedum plants.
Deer Attraction: Deer may find Sedum plants palatable and consume them.
Winter Wetness: Excessive winter moisture can be detrimental to Sedum, especially in poorly drained soils.

Overall, Sedum plants offer numerous benefits and are a great choice for many gardeners. However, it is important to consider their specific needs and potential drawbacks before incorporating them into your landscape.

How hardy are sedum?

Sedum plants are generally hardy. They can tolerate a wide range of climates and are often suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3-9. However, some species may be more tolerant of extreme temperatures than others. It is important to choose Sedum varieties that are appropriate for your specific climate to ensure their survival.

Versatile Sedum: Landscaping Ideas

Sedum plants offer a variety of uses in your landscape. Here are some creative ideas to incorporate them into your garden:

Ground Cover:

Rock Walls: Plant groundcover Sedum along rock walls to create a cascading effect.
Pathways: Mass groupings of Sedum can add color and texture to pathways.
Paving Stones: Use groundcover Sedum to fill in gaps between paving stones.

Borders and Containers:

Mixed Borders: Tall Sedum varieties can be planted at the front of mixed borders for fall color.
Stone Troughs: Adorn stone troughs with creeping Sedum and other perennial ground covers.
Containers: Create colorful displays on decks or patios with containers filled with various Sedum species.

Specialized Landscapes:

Rock Gardens: Combine Sedum with alpine plants and water-wise species in rock gardens.
Slopes: Mass tall Sedum along slopes to stabilize the soil and add visual interest.
Green Roofs: Use groundcover Sedum to create eco-friendly green roofs.

Benefits of Using Sedum:

Low Maintenance: Sedum plants are drought-tolerant and require minimal care.
Versatility: They can be used in various settings, from rock gardens to containers.
Attracts Wildlife: Sedum's flowers attract pollinators and birds.
Colorful Displays: These plants offer a variety of foliage colors and attractive blooms.

By incorporating Sedum into your landscape, you can create a beautiful, low-maintenance garden that benefits both you and wildlife.

Sedum’s striking flower clusters

Sedum, also known as stonecrop, produce clusters of star-shaped flowers that bloom from midsummer to fall. The flowers come in various colors, including white, yellow, pink, and red. These blooms are not only attractive but also beloved by pollinators like bees and butterflies

The flowers are typically small, star-shaped, and often grow in clusters.

Here are some key features of sedum flowers:

Colorful: They offer a vibrant display of color, adding interest to your garden.
Low maintenance: Sedums are drought-tolerant and require minimal care.
Attracts pollinators: Sedum flowers are a favorite of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Long-lasting: The flowers can remain on the plant for several weeks or even months.
Variety: There are many different species and cultivars of sedum, each with its own unique flower characteristics.

Sedum flower clusters are a common feature of many sedum species and cultivars. These clusters can be small and compact or large and showy, depending on the specific variety. Here are some key characteristics of sedum flower clusters:

Size: They can vary greatly in size, from small, tight clusters to large, sprawling masses.
Shape: They often have a rounded or spherical shape but can also be flat or elongated.
Color: The color of the clusters can vary widely, depending on the specific sedum variety.
Density: Some clusters are dense and packed with flowers, while others are more open and airier.

Popular sedum varieties with beautiful flowers include:

Autumn Joy: Known for its large, pink flower clusters that age to a copper color.
Brilliant: Produces bright pink flowers in summer.
Blue Spruce: Features yellow flowers and blue-green foliage.
Humifusum: A low-growing sedum with yellow flowers.

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