Coppertone Stonecrop
sedum nussbaumerianum
Also known as: ["Coppertone Sedum","Stonecrop"]
Overview
A succulent species with fleshy, copper-colored leaves that turn reddish in full sun, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum nussbaumerianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor garden bed in a warm, dry location
- 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 succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or pumice for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but requires protection from harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near east-facing windows. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frost but prefers mild temperatures year-round.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; use sterile tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim stems just above a leaf node or junction; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring/summer) every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to commercial potting mix to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or blackened stems from cold stress; wilting or scorched leaves from heat stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot due to reduced evaporation and increased moisture retention in soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; reduce watering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, and wilting, especially if combined with intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity with misting; water early in the day; ensure good airflow.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in growing season only; avoid contact with leaves; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum nussbaumerianum is not considered toxic to cats. It poses no known health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum nussbaumerianum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicSedum nussbaumerianum is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse effects when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum nussbaumerianum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this plant need full sun?
A: It thrives in bright light but can tolerate partial shade; full sun enhances its copper-red color.
Q: Is Sedum nussbaumerianum safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
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