Golden Stonecrop
sedum aizoon
Also known as: ["Eurybia aizoon","Sedum eurybioides"]
Overview
A hardy, low-growing succulent with bright yellow star-shaped flowers and fleshy, linear leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum aizoon |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, border fronts, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid low-light areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure soil dries out between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid waterlogged soil; use cactus/succulent mix for best results.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–9. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C) when dormant.
Protect from frost in early spring/late fall; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are the most common and reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch stem 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 (65–75°F), bright indirect light, and high humidity (e.g., using a propagation dome).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss, or cactus/succulent potting soil.
Hormone
Not necessary, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humid environment for faster rooting; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut them just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead/damaged stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage holes; 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; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, then stop to prevent waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth (spring/summer), reducing frequency to once a month or less in fall/winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Mix perlite, coarse sand, or pumice into heavy soils to improve drainage; add compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may become brittle or discolored in extreme cold, but the plant is generally cold-hardy and can survive freezing temperatures if dormant.
Solution: Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot in cold, wet conditions. Mulch lightly in winter to insulate roots in colder zones.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in intense heat, especially with poor water management.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; water deeply but infrequently; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength once in spring and once in summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum aizoon is non-toxic to cats. It does not pose any known health risks to feline physiology.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum aizoon is not toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would affect canine health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum aizoon is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects on human physiology.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum aizoon?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Sedum aizoon attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Sedum aizoon be grown indoors?
A: While possible, it thrives best in outdoor settings with full sun and good drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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