Spanish Stonecrop
sedum hispanicum
Also known as: ["Hispanic Stonecrop","Spanish Sedum"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with small, fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum hispanicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or container plantings in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Sandy, loamy soil with excellent drainage; cactus or succulent mix recommended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of growth at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may stretch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid fluorescent light.
Watering
every 7–10 days in spring and summer, every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with minimal organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use terracotta pots for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with gravel.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); hardy to 20°F (-6°C) in winter.
Avoid drafts; use a humidifier in dry heat; insulate pots in winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Let them callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–3 weeks; establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; mist regularly; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushiness; maintain compact shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/damaged stems; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh well-draining soil; place in slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots lightly; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 3–4 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting in heat; leaf drop or browning in cold; etiolation in low light.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may enter dormancy; leaves may turn purplish-red.
Solution: Protect from frost; provide winter mulch; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase air circulation; water early morning.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly in spring/summer; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum hispanicum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum hispanicum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum hispanicum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum hispanicum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Sedum hispanicum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its flowers.
Q: Can Sedum hispanicum be grown indoors?
A: While possible, it thrives best in outdoor settings with ample sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in spring an |
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