Orpine
sedum forsterianum
Also known as: ["Green Moss Sedum","Stonecrop"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with creeping stems and small, fleshy, green leaves, often forming dense mats.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum forsterianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, container plantings, or as a ground cover in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- 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 sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct sun, especially in cooler morning hours.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun gradually; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak sun; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water less in dormant periods.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings also possible but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Let cuttings callus before planting; use bottom heat to speed rooting; keep soil lightly moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; trim after flowering to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune selectively; remove dead/damaged growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly 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 deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; 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; may cause leaves to wrinkle or drop; susceptible to frost damage below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or scorch; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently if in direct sun.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid dormant periods.
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 forsterianum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not contain compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum forsterianum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum forsterianum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum forsterianum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Sedum forsterianum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Can Sedum forsterianum grow in shade?
A: Yes, it tolerates partial to full shade, though it prefers some sunlight for optimal growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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