Mexican Sedum
sedum praealtum
Also known as: ["Mexican Stonecrop","Prickly Sedum"]
Overview
A succulent plant native to Mexico, characterized by fleshy, green leaves and yellow star-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum praealtum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or containers with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on desired shape and growth habit.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate full sun but may require gradual acclimation to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to full sun slowly over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun; place indoors near a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; adjust light exposure gradually.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry out fully between waterings; avoid frequent light watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures with slight cooling in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature indoors.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep lightly moist until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humidity dome for faster rooting; keep soil lightly moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
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 dead or damaged stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; trim roots if crowded; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation. Water until water drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) during extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move indoors before frost; protect with frost cloth; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown spots due to excessive heat and dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate watering without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum praealtum is not considered toxic to cats. It lacks any known toxic compounds that would pose a risk to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum praealtum is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum praealtum is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum praealtum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Sedum praealtum require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can Sedum praealtum be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors with sufficient sunlight, but it prefers outdoor conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
