Sedum sediforme, commonly known as stonecrop, is a low-growing succulent plant from the Crassulaceae family. Native to Europe and Asia, it has also been introduced globally as an ornamental plant.
The plant features small, fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette pattern, exhibiting a green or grayish-green color. These thick leaves can store water for extended periods, making Sedum sediforme ideal for dry environments.
In late spring to early summer, Sedum sediforme produces small yellow flowers that bloom on tall stems rising above the foliage, attracting pollinators such as bees.
This hardy perennial can grow up to 10 cm (4 inches) tall and spread up to 30 cm (12 inches) wide through its creeping stems, which root at nodes along their length.
Sedum sediforme prefers well-drained soil with full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but requires regular watering during its growing season.
This versatile succulent is often used in rock gardens or as ground cover due to its low-growing habit and ability to thrive in harsh conditions with minimal care.
Stonecrop has moderate disease resistance and is more sensitive to humidity. It becomes vulnerable to illness when humidity is high and is liable to develop root rot during dormancy. Regarding care, Stonecrop is drought tolerant but requires more water in the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Stonecrop is suitable for growers with some experience, though it can be difficult to maintain, particularly during dormancy. It is especially appropriate for people who can devote time to its care over the winter months.
How to keep Sedum Sediforme.
Light
Stonecrop grows best in strong lighting during its growth stages, reflecting its native habitat. It can also tolerate lower light, which causes fewer problems than overexposure, since too much light can scorch leaves and impede growth.
Water
Sedum sediforme has low demand on watering need. All of the soil should be dry before watering. If the soil is still moist, you risk giving this plant too much water which can make it start to rot. When you water this plant, water well and then allow the soil to dry out completely before you water it again.
Humidity
This plant prefers dry conditions, so don't mist it. However, watering it less often can also thrive in higher humidity.
Temperature
Stonecrop is native to climates where temperatures remain between 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). It does particularly well within that temperature span. Seasonal temperature adjustments are generally unnecessary unless extreme weather occurs.
Fertilizer
Stonecrop only needs light fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season. Do not fertilize in winter or in summer when it is dormant. Cut back on fertilizer for plants that have been repotted, and wait a couple of months after repotting before you fertilize. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and encourages flowering.
Toxicity
Sedum sediforme has no toxic effects reported.
Further reading →
The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent, Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Sedum
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 10 cm to 15 cm
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Pale Green
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Flower Color
- Pink, White
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Kenya, Ethiopia
Other names.
