Hairy Stonecrop
sedum hirsutum
Also known as: ["Arenaria hirsuta","Sedum rupestre var. hirsutum"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with hairy leaves and star-shaped pink flowers, native to rocky areas in the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum hirsutum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; essential to prevent waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or sand for improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or overgrown stems unless reshaping is required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; adjust to avoid scorching in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil with minimal organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; use a mix with at least 30% inorganic material.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate temperatures; avoid extreme heat or cold.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; stop feeding in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also be used but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright, indirect light; high humidity (e.g., using a propagation dome) aids rooting.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and cactus/succulent soil; can also root in water for a short period.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humid environment for faster rooting; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove entire stems if necessary.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in spring/summer; remove dead or diseased growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refreshment.
Checklist
Choose a well-draining pot; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure thorough saturation without pooling; 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 4–6 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to standard potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) in extreme temperatures; stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to frost if not protected.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location in winter; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C); reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Can scorch or wilt in excessive heat; may enter dormancy if temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water early in the day to avoid evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer (half-strength) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum hirsutum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum hirsutum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum hirsutum is not known to have toxic effects on 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 Sedum hirsutum be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Sedum hirsutum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Q: Can Sedum hirsutum be grown indoors?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in rock gardens or containers with 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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