The Stonecrop family, also known as Sedum, is a massive group with over 400 different species. These are classic succulents (members of the Crassulaceae family) that are tough as nails. Depending on the variety, they can handle a freezing winter outdoors without breaking a sweat. Of course, if you’re growing your Sedum as a houseplant, it’ll stay cozy inside with you all winter long.
Fun Facts About Stonecrop
Stonecrops are succulents that can be grown as either annuals or perennials. They usually have a lovely bushy growth habit, reaching up to about 24 inches tall. They get their name from those thick, fleshy leaves that store water like a pro. Depending on which variety you pick, you’ll see flower clusters in gorgeous shades of red, white, or yellow. These plants absolutely love dry, well-draining, slightly acidic soil that isn’t too rich in nutrients. Because they’re so hardy, you’ll mostly see them in rock gardens, perennial beds, patio pots, or even as a low-maintenance option for green roofs.
Overwintering Stonecrop Outdoors
Many Sedum varieties are incredibly winter-hardy and can stay right in the ground all year round. Once the first frost hits, you’ll notice the stems getting soft and a bit mushy—eventually, they’ll die back and dry out. Here’s a pro tip: don’t cut those dead stems back yet! They actually act as a natural mulch, protecting the root ball from the cold. Wait until you see new growth popping up in the spring; that’s your signal to clear away the old debris.
Keeping Stonecrop Indoors for Winter
If you’re growing Stonecrop as a houseplant, it needs a little “nap” to stay healthy. For about three months during the winter, move it to a cool, bright spot that stays frost-free—ideally between 40°F and 55°F. An unheated sunroom or a south-facing window in a chilly hallway works perfectly. During this dormant phase, stop fertilizing entirely and only give it a tiny sip of water every now and then.
Winter Care for Potted Sedums
Just like most container plants, Sedums in pots are a bit more vulnerable to the cold than those in the ground. To keep the roots from freezing solid, you’ll want to take a few extra precautions:
- Move your pots to a spot protected from harsh wind and heavy rain.
- Tucking them against a warm house wall or under a semi-open shelter (like a wood shed) works great.
- Elevate the pot by placing it on a piece of Styrofoam or a wooden block to insulate it from the cold ground.
- Wrap the pot in bubble wrap to keep the roots snug.
- Cover the plant itself with a frost fleece or a burlap bag for that extra layer of warmth.
