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Broadleaf Stonecrop: A Tiny Native Succulent with Big Impact

Pacific Northwest gardens are known for lush greenery, but the region also boasts charming native succulents. Sedum spathulifolium (broadleaf stonecrop) is among the most widespread and garden-worthy — a cold-hardy, drought-tolerant groundcover that delivers acid-yellow starry flowers in May and year-round evergreen rosettes.

Kate Bryant

Quick Facts

Botanical name: Sedum spathulifolium
Common name: Broadleaf stonecrop
Native range: Western North America, British Columbia to Southern California; rocky coastal and inland slopes
Hardiness: -5 to 20°F (USDA zone 6)
Water: Thrives in well-drained, sandy soil; no summer water needed once established
Light: Partial to full sun
Size: Foliage ~2″ tall; flowers 4–5″ tall
Seasonal interest: Acid-yellow flower sprays in May; foliage shifts from blue-green to ruddy/purple tones under drought or winter cold

Distinguishing Traits

Tidy rosettes of plump leaves create a charming texture in rockeries, containers, and crevices. The May flowers attract pollinators, including the endangered San Bruno elfin butterfly in California. Foliage color varies by cultivar and exposure — full sun brings out the best blue tones and reddish winter tints.

Xera Plants — Wild on a rocky outcrop above Oregon's Willamette River.

How to Use It

Perfect for dry, out-of-the-way spots beyond the hose's reach. Tuck into front of dry borders, stone wall crevices, rock gardens, and containers of all sizes. Evergreen presence adds winter interest; subtle color shifts provide seasonal nuance.

Photo by Alex Lomas

Planting Notes

Virtually unfussy: thrives in lean, well-drained soil, barely needing soil at all. Full sun yields best flowering and blue foliage color; partial sun works but plants grow lankier. Tolerates wind and reflected heat.

Top Cultivars

'Cape Blanco' (zone 5b) — grayish-white foliage; RHS Award of Garden Merit winner.
'Carnea' (zone 5a) — reddish-pink winter foliage tints.
'Rogue River' (zone 5b) — Xera Plants selection with striking blue foliage.