Clasping-leaved Stonecrop

sedum amplexicaule

Also known as: ["Clasping Stonecrop","Hedgehog Stonecrop"]

Family: Crassulaceae Genus: Sedum Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A low-growing succulent with fleshy, clasping leaves and star-shaped flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.

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 amplexicaule

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers with excellent drainage
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate full sun but may need acclimation to prevent scorching.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, or root rot indicate poor drainage or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; use sheer curtains for intense light.

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-drained, 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 aesthetics.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate temperatures.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Let it callus for a day.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and sand.

Hormone

Optional 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.

Quick Tips

Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; use sterile tools.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Trim back leggy stems; pinch tips 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 growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves; reduce winter watering.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow excess to drain away. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the soil without wetting foliage.
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 or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) indicate temperature stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, or stunted growth.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but still allow soil to dry between waterings.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; rinse soil occasionally.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Sedum amplexicaule may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, which can compromise the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Sedum amplexicaule is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, which can lead to cellular damage and reduced turgor pressure in the leaves and stems.

Leaf spots on Sedum amplexicaule may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential leaf drop if the infection is severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Sedum amplexicaule due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Sedum amplexicaule is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor pets if they exhibit unusual interest in the plant, but it is generally safe for cats to be around.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Sedum amplexicaule is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor pets if they exhibit unusual interest in the plant, but it is generally safe for dogs to be around.
Humans
Non-toxic

Sedum amplexicaule is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is a succulent plant that is generally safe for handling and consumption in small quantities.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material is not recommended. Always wash hands after handling any plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Sedum amplexicaule toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How much water does Sedum amplexicaule need?

A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, especially in well-draining soil.

Q: Does Sedum amplexicaule attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its star-shaped flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Crassulaceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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