Jelly Bean Plant (Sedum rubrotinctum): The Colorful Succulent with Bean-Shaped Leaves

Jelly Bean Plant, also known as Pork and Beans, Christmas Cheer, or Banana Cactus, is a popular trailing succulent (Sedum rubrotinctum) from Mexico. Its plump, bean-shaped leaves turn from green to bright red at the tips when exposed to sun or cool temperatures, resembling colorful jelly beans.

Growth and Color

This sedum forms low, spreading mats with stems that root easily where they touch soil. The leaves are about 1/2 to 3/4 inch long, glossy, and tightly packed. In spring, it produces small, star-shaped yellow flowers on short stalks. The red pigmentation intensifies with stress—full sun, drought, or cold—which makes it a dynamic plant through the seasons.

Easy Care

Jelly Bean Plant is one of the most forgiving succulents. It tolerates a range of soils if drainage is good, thrives in full sun to part shade, and is drought-tolerant once established. It is frost-tender (hardy to about 25°F/-4°C) but recovers quickly from minor damage. Perfect for hanging baskets, rock walls, ground cover, or as a spiller in mixed containers.