Broadleaf Stonecrop
sedum spathulifolium
Also known as: ["Broadleaf Stonecrop","Spoonleaf Stonecrop"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves and yellow star-shaped flowers, native to western North America.
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 spathulifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- 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; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (4–6 hours/day). Tolerates partial shade but may stretch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense summer sun; avoid direct midday sun indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust for seasonal changes.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty mix; avoid heavy soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged frost.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
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
- Take cuttings.
- Let them callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water lightly.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, bright indirect light; moderate humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Let cuttings dry before planting; use small pots for stability; maintain warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems and spent flowers to maintain compact growth and encourage bushiness.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead or leggy growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm 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 fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water 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 soil level, ensuring even moisture without saturating. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
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 standard potting mix; ensure no waterlogging.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may become brittle, discolored, or drop. Growth halts in freezing conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from frost; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or curl. Growth slows in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum spathulifolium is non-toxic to cats. No toxic effects have been reported in felines after ingestion of this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum spathulifolium is non-toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion of this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum spathulifolium is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has not been reported to cause significant adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much sunlight does Sedum spathulifolium need?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.
Q: Is Sedum spathulifolium toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Sedum spathulifolium?
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 during activ |
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