Stonecrop sedum is a hardy, adaptable succulent that adds beauty and practicality to any-sized garden. Its thick, plump leaves and clusters of star-shaped flowers can flourish in poor soil and withstand drought.
In this guide, you’ll learn about some of the most popular varieties — including autumn joy stonecrop, the autumn joy plant, and the angelina sedum plant — and discover how to grow and care for this resilient perennial.
What is Stonecrop Sedum?
Stonecrop sedum is a large group of succulents belonging to the genus Sedum, with over 400 species. Known for their plump leaves and colorful blooms, sedums range from low-growing ground covers to tall, upright varieties.
These plants are native to the Northern Hemisphere and are found in different environments, from rocky cliffs to open meadows. They are a favorite in gardens because they can handle harsh conditions and provide late-season color when many other plants have faded.
Why Choose Stonecrop Sedum?
A few reasons why gardeners love stonecrop sedum:
- Extremely drought-tolerant once established.
- Thrives in poor, sandy, or rocky soils where other plants struggle.
- It attracts bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.
- Provides year-round interest with colorful foliage and long-lasting blooms.
- Works well in containers, borders, and even green roofs.
Whether planting a formal garden or filling in a dry corner, stonecrop sedum is a reliable and beautiful choice. Hardy and colorful, it works well with unique plants such as the lithops plant and the winter-blooming Schlumbergera cactus.
Popular Varieties of Stonecrop Sedum
Autumn Joy Stonecrop
One of the most popular upright sedums, the autumn joy stonecrop (Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’) forms neat mounds of blue-green leaves topped with clusters of pink flowers that deepen to copper-red in fall. This autumn joy plant shines late in the season and adds structure and color to perennial beds.
Angelina Sedum Plant
The Angelina sedum plant (Sedum rupestre ‘Angelina’) is a favorite for a low-growing, vibrant ground cover. Its needle-like, golden-yellow leaves create a bright carpet that turns orange-red in colder months. This variety is perfect for rock gardens, borders, or as a living mulch between stepping stones.
How to Grow and Care for Stonecrop Sedum
Light
Stonecrop sedum loves full sun for vibrant color and vigorous growth. Some varieties manage in light shade, but flowering usually diminishes.
Soil
Stonecrop sedum does well in sandy or gravelly soils and tolerates poor fertility. However, the soil should drain well. Avoid clay soils that retain water, which can lead to rot.
Watering
Water sparingly. These succulents prefer to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is a common mistake, especially for ground-cover types.
Temperature and Hardiness
Most sedum varieties do well in the cold and can tolerate freezing temperatures. Check each variety for hardiness, since some tender types are better suited to warmer climates and do better indoors.
Fertilizer
Sedums do not require much feeding. Although fertilizer in the spring can promote growth, it is often unnecessary.
Design Ideas with Stonecrop Sedum
Stonecrop sedum’s versatility makes it easy to incorporate into almost any garden design:
- Use autumn joy stonecrop as a bold focal point in mixed perennial beds.
- Plant Angelina Sedum as a bright ground cover or in rock gardens.
- Combine different sedum varieties to create texture and contrast in containers.
- Add creeping sedum varieties to green roofs or walls for a living, low-maintenance surface.
Propagation
Stonecrop sedum is very easy to grow. Here are two simple methods:
- Stem Cuttings: Cut stems during the growing season, let them dry for 24 hours, then plant in a soil that drains well.
- Division: Lift and divide mature plants in spring or fall to create new clumps.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Root rot: Can be caused by too much water. Always use soil that drains well and avoid overwatering.
- Leggy growth: Typically happens in low light; move to a sunnier spot.
- Pests: Generally pest-free, though aphids may appear occasionally and are controlled with insecticidal soap.
Conclusion
The stonecrop sedum ground cover and upright varieties offer resilience and year-round beauty with minimal care. From the reliable blooms of the autumn joy plant to the bright leaves of the angelina stonecrop sedum, these plants prove that harsh conditions don’t mean sacrificing color or texture.
For a splash of color, consider adding a red sedum plant to complement the greens and golds of other varieties. Whether covering ground, creating a focal point, or adding life to a container, stonecrop sedum has something to offer every gardener.
With just a bit of attention to light and soil, your sedums will thrive and reward you with years of low-maintenance beauty.