Green Carpet Stonecrop
sedum sarmentosum
Also known as: ["Green Carpet","Creeping Stonecrop"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with trailing stems and small, fleshy leaves, forming a dense mat.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","ground cover","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum sarmentosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, ground cover in sunny areas, or containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Sandy, loamy soil with good 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 heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates bright indirect light indoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; provide dappled light in hot climates.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; prioritize dry soil over moist soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with 50% inorganic material; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature indoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings also possible but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut healthy stems.
- Let cuttings callous for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–3 weeks; mature plant in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove leggy growth.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or damaged stems; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh well-draining soil; place in a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage holes; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; vulnerable to root rot if soil stays wet in cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure well-draining soil; protect from frost with a cover or indoor placement.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl or scorch; growth may slow; soil dries out faster.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring–summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum sarmentosum is not considered toxic to cats. No toxic effects have been reported following ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum sarmentosum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum sarmentosum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has not been reported to cause significant adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sedum sarmentosum invasive?
A: It can spread aggressively in favorable conditions but is not typically considered invasive.
Q: How much sunlight does it need?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can it be grown indoors?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant but can be grown indoors with bright light and good drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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