Whether you call them Sedum or Stonecrop, these hardy succulents are a total staple for any garden or patio container. They’re the kind of “set it and forget it” perennials that gardeners love—once they’re settled in the right spot, they’ll thrive for years with hardly any fuss.
Location, Soil, and Care
If you’re looking to add some to your yard, spring is the perfect time to get them in the ground or into pots. Most varieties crave full sun, though a few don’t mind a bit of partial shade. When you first plant them, give them a well-draining soil and regular water to help those roots get established. These Sedum varieties actually hail from all over the globe, feeling right at home in:
- Temperate zones across the Northern Hemisphere
- Tropical and subtropical regions of Africa
- Similar climates throughout Asia
- South America
While almost all Sedums are sun-worshippers, their soil preferences can vary. Most love a loose, nutrient-rich, and dry soil, but a few actually prefer things a bit more moist. The golden rule? Avoid “wet feet” at all costs. Standing water leads to root rot, so I always recommend adding some drainage (like gravel or perlite) when you plant. Beyond that, care is pretty minimal and depends on the specific variety you choose.
Low-Growing Groundcovers
You’ve probably seen Stonecrop (like Goldmoss) carpeting rock walls or used as a drought-tolerant groundcover. These little guys are tough as nails—they handle dry spells like pros but can also weather a long rainy season without breaking a sweat. They’re perfect for edging garden beds or even green roofs!
Upright Sedum Varieties
These taller types store water in their thick, fleshy leaves, which is why they do so well in rocky soil even when the rain stops falling. They look fantastic in the middle of a perennial bed or as a focal point in a large patio planter.
A Quick Guide to Sedum Varieties and Their Happy Places
To make sure your plants stay happy and healthy for the long haul, it helps to know exactly what each type needs. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Showy Stonecrop (Sedum spectabile): Full sun; rich, moderately moist soil.
- Purple Emperor/Purple Stonecrop: Full sun; rich, moderately moist soil.
- Goldmoss Stonecrop: Full sun to partial shade; moderately moist to dry soil.
- Mossy Stonecrop: Full sun; moderately moist to damp soil.
- Blue Spruce/Reflexed Stonecrop: Full sun; sandy, low-nutrient soil.
- Pale Stonecrop: Full sun; dry soil.
