Furry Stonecrop
sedum furfuraceum
Also known as: ["Furry Sedum","Scaly Stonecrop"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with woolly, scaly leaves and yellow flowers, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","deer resistant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum furfuraceum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden, succulent container, or xeriscaped area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
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, removing only dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun but acclimate gradually to avoid scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to intense sunlight gradually over 1–2 weeks. Protect from harsh midday sun, especially in summer. Indoors, place near south-facing windows with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensure soil dries out fully between waterings, and reduce watering in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use a mix with at least 30% inorganic components.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frost but prefers moderate temperatures year-round.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent root burn; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Stem cuttings are more reliable for Sedum furfuraceum.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, let it callus for 1–2 days, plant in moist propagation 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
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humidifier for faster rooting; keep soil lightly moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction to promote new growth.
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 dead/damaged stems, cut just above nodes, clean up debris
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, 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. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil mix, handle roots carefully, water lightly after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness, water deeply, ensure drainage, reduce winter watering
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the pot’s bottom, then discard excess water. 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.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) indicate stress from extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet. Prolonged cold may damage leaves.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, ensure soil is dry, and provide protection from drafts or frost.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaves to scorch, wilt, or drop, especially if combined with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase air circulation, and water carefully to avoid soil saturation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, fertilize in growing season, avoid winter feeding
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum furfuraceum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum furfuraceum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum furfuraceum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much sunlight does Sedum furfuraceum need?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: Is Sedum furfuraceum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Sedum furfuraceum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very 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
