Wild Stonecrop
sedum ternatum
Also known as: ["Three-leaved Stonecrop","Meadow Spurge"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with fleshy leaves and star-shaped white flowers, native to eastern North America.
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 ternatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, ground cover in borders, or containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shape or health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light to partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun or filtered light per day.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; protect from intense afternoon sun; suitable for both indoor bright spots and shaded outdoor areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid harsh midday sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide dappled light in hot climates.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates frost but thrives in cooler conditions.
Protect from extreme cold; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate conditions for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings root easily in soil or water.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in moist soil or place in water.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite) or water.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or leggy stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry out.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once a month or less.
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 browning in excessive heat; stunted growth or blackened leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged freezing temperatures without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from freezing winds; bring potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch in excessive heat; growth may stall.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but still allow soil to dry between waterings.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; cease in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum ternatum is non-toxic to cats. No toxic effects or physiological impacts have been reported following ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum ternatum is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum ternatum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much sunlight does Sedum ternatum need?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, though it prefers some shade in hot climates.
Q: Is Sedum ternatum edible?
A: While generally considered non-toxic, it is not typically consumed as food.
Q: How often should I water Sedum ternatum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings; it is drought-tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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