White Stonecrop
sedum album
Also known as: ["White Stonecrop","White Sedum","Mossy Stonecrop"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with fleshy, white-green leaves and star-shaped white flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
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 album |
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":"–20–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Succulent/cactus mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
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 for even growth; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid direct indoor light in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Hardy to -20°F (-29°C); thrives in 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates heat and drought.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost in containers; ensure good air flow.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings; division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Let them callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity (50–60%), bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or succulent/cactus soil.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; mature plant in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems; trim selectively to shape.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushiness; prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early growth phase; remove dead or damaged stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Use fresh succulent/cactus soil; ensure drainage holes; gently tease apart roots if compacted.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed; 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 coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting in heat; leaf drop or discoloration in cold; stunted growth in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn red or purple; growth slows but plant is generally cold-hardy.
Solution: Provide winter protection in zones below USDA 3; ensure good air circulation to prevent frost damage.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in summer; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Dilute fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly in spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Sedum album may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant's mucilaginous properties can cause discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Sedum album by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant compounds. Symptoms are typically self-limiting but may require veterinary attention if severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSedum album contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's mucilaginous texture may contribute to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum album?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. It is drought-tolerant and overwatering can cause root rot.
Q: Does Sedum album attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Sedum album be grown indoors?
A: While it can be grown indoors, it thrives best in outdoor settings with full sun and well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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