Stonecrop
sedum rupestre
Also known as: ["Yellow Stonecrop","Lime Stonecrop"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with fleshy, linear leaves and star-shaped yellow flowers, native to rocky areas in Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum rupestre |
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":"–20 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: Sandy, well-draining soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, removing only dead or overgrown parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) or bright indirect light; adjust for intense summer sun to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; provide shade during peak summer hours; place in a south-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid direct midday sun indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy clay mixes; test drainage before planting.
Temperature
50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers moderate temperatures year-round.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting, let it callus for 1–2 days, plant in medium, water lightly, maintain humidity.
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., a plastic bag or propagator).
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and sand.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Let cuttings callus before planting; use warm water for initial watering; maintain consistent humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead growth, shape as desired, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot).
Method
Gently remove plant, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when roots fill the pot or every 2–3 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even 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 improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or discoloration (yellowing or browning).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, dehydration, or sunburn in excessive heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide partial shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply to moist soil, 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 rupestre is non-toxic to cats. There are no known toxic components in the plant that would pose a risk to felines if consumed.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum rupestre is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain substances that are harmful to canines when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum rupestre is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sedum rupestre toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Sedum rupestre?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Sedum rupestre attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
