Golden Sedum
sedum adolphii
Also known as: ["Golden Glow","Golden Sedum"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with fleshy, golden-green leaves that turn reddish under bright light.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","fast growing","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum adolphii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor container, or rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- 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 6–8 hours/day; can tolerate direct sun but may scorch in intense midday sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; provide shade during peak hours; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; adjust light as seasons change.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use a mix with sand/perlite.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–90°F (10–32°C); prefers cooler temperatures in winter.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; adjust watering for heat/cold.
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 winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings also possible but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting, let it callus for a day, plant in medium, keep moist but not wet, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, indirect light; protect from direct sun.
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; new growth in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Let cuttings callus before planting; use warm, humid conditions; don’t overwater.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; prune to maintain shape and remove dead/damaged parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Clean tools, prune dead/damaged parts, shape as desired, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
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; needed if growth slows or soil degrades.
Checklist
Choose right pot, prepare soil, handle roots carefully, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; mix in organic matter 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 drop or discoloration; susceptible to frost damage below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; 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; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum adolphii is not toxic to cats. The plant lacks compounds that are known to be harmful to felines upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum adolphii is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that are harmful to canines when ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum adolphii is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause significant physiological harm upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum adolphii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent rot.
Q: Does Sedum adolphii need full sun?
A: It thrives in bright light but can tolerate partial shade; too much shade may reduce its vibrant color.
Q: Is Sedum adolphii toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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