Jelly Beans
sedum pachyphyllum
Also known as: ["Jelly Bean Plant","Pork and Beans"]
Overview
A succulent with fleshy, bean-like leaves that turn reddish in bright light.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","deer resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum pachyphyllum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden, succulent container, or sunny indoor windowsill
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only overgrown or damaged stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun for 6–8 hours daily; adjust for intense summer sun to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; provide shade during peak summer hours; rotate plants for even growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct midday sun in summer; provide bright light year-round; protect from harsh winter sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy potting mixes; use pots with drainage holes.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerate mild frost but prefer moderate temperatures year-round.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain moderate warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings also possible but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and sand.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pot, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bright indirect light; keep soil lightly moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier form; prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune selectively; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without saturating the leaves; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration; stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum pachyphyllum is non-toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum pachyphyllum is not toxic to dogs. Ingestion does not typically cause adverse effects or physiological harm.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum pachyphyllum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum pachyphyllum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Sedum pachyphyllum need full sun?
A: It thrives in bright light but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Can I propagate Sedum pachyphyllum from leaves?
A: Yes, it can be easily propagated from leaf cuttings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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