Sedum is the plant that you should start out with as a gardener. It survives anything and comes in a host of colors. It is drought tolerant, loved by pollinators, and can survive in a wide range of soil types.
Sedum, commonly known as stonecrop, is a large genus of 400+ different flowering plants in the family Crassulaceae. These plants are easy to care for, surviving in poor conditions and extended drought. The flowers attract bees and butterflies and provide interest in winter when left to dry on the stems. We cannot think of any downsides of this underutilized plant, which belongs in every garden!
Commonly known as stonecrops
Thick succulent leaves that store water
Flowers that are red, yellow or white
Growing zones 3 to 8
About Sedum
Genus
Species
Family
Sedum
400+
Crassulaceae
Common Names:
Stonecrop
Native To:
Europe, Asia, North America
Plant Type:
Perennials
Foliage Type:
Deciduous
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:
3 - 9
Flower Color:
Pink, Red, Yellow, White
Flower Bloom Time:
Summer to Fall
Growth Habit:
Clumping, Spreading, Upright
Attracts:
Bees, Butterflies
Tolerates:
Drought, Heat, Poor Soil
Resists:
Deer, Rabbits, Pests
How To Use Sedum In The Garden
Sedum is valued for its low-maintenance needs and wide range of forms, from sprawling ground covers to upright varieties. Its thick, fleshy leaves provide drought tolerance, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardening. Most sedums bloom in late summer and produce nectar-rich flowers, which are a favorite of butterflies. Sedum is also deer resistant and winter hardy in growing zones 3 to 8.
Low-growing, spreading varieties can be used to create colorful ground cover or fill gaps in rock gardens. Taller varieties make excellent border plants, adding structure and contrast when paired with grasses or flowering perennials. Sedum is also ideal for green roofs and living walls, as it thrives on neglect and can handle challenging conditions. Its water-storing leaves allow it to handle dry conditions in planters and hellstrips.
Sedum Care
Sedum plants require well-draining soil, such as sandy or gravelly types, to prevent root rot. They thrive in full sun, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Watering should be minimal; during dry periods, water approximately once per week, ensuring the soil completely dries out between waterings. Fertilization is generally unnecessary, as sedums prefer low-nutrient soils.
Pruning sedum involves removing spent flowers and leggy growth to maintain shape and encourage new growth. In winter, particularly in colder climates, applying a layer of mulch can protect the roots from freezing temperatures. Sedums adapt well to container gardening; ensure pots have drainage holes and use a cactus or succulent potting mix to facilitate proper drainage.
Plants that go well with sedum are sun loving annuals, perennials and shrubs that prefer well drained soil. Some of our favorite plants to grow with sedum are hens and chicks, yarrow, daylilies, dianthus, coneflowers, boxwood and arborvitae.
