How to Grow Sedum (Stonecrop)

How to Grow Sedum (Stonecrop)

Perennial, Sedum acre

Sedum is a family of perennial, hardy, flowering succulents with many varieties ranging from a couple of inches to about 3 feet tall. Smaller, popular varieties serve as ground cover.

Sedum is very easy to grow and virtually care-free. Plants bloom summer to fall in yellow, red, pink, and orange, attracting bees and butterflies.

Did You Know? In old English, sedum (stonecrop) translates as "sprouting from the stone." An old garden saying: "Only stones require less care and live longer than sedum."

Use smaller varieties for ground cover; taller ones in groups or mounds. Sedum works well as borders, edgings, and in hanging baskets. Taller varieties make good cut flowers, fresh or dried. Leave some flowers to dry for fall and winter color. Sedum can also be grown as a houseplant.

---

Plant Propagation

Sedum is grown from root division. Dig up the clump, divide, and replant in spring, summer, or fall.

Sedum also grows from young, tender cuttings. Some varieties root well in water; others root quickly in damp soil.

---

How to Grow Sedum Plants

Sedum likes full sun to partial shade. It grows in rich or average soils but demands good drainage—no wet soils. Established plants are drought-tolerant.

Once established, sedum thrives for years—even decades. Fertilize 2–3 times per season starting in early spring.

Cut back tall plants any time after fall frost but before spring growth resumes.

As a houseplant, sedum prefers 3–4 hours of direct sunlight or several hours of artificial light. Otherwise, it's easy to grow indoors.

---

Insect and Disease

Insect and disease problems are virtually non-existent. Deer and rabbits leave sedum alone.

---