Loose Stonecrop
sedum laxum
Also known as: ["Loose Stonecrop"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with fleshy, trailing stems and small, rounded leaves, often forming mats in rocky or sandy soils.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum laxum |
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":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- 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: Every 2–3 months during active growth; lightly prune as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun with gradual acclimation; reduce light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to full sun slowly over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun; place indoors near a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; avoid direct afternoon sun; provide dappled light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; water less in winter; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers moderate temperatures year-round.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temps; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; both methods are effective and straightforward.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water lightly.
- Keep humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and 50–60% humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting powder or gel is recommended.
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
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; mist occasionally to maintain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node; remove dead or damaged growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier form; prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration in extreme heat or cold; stunted growth in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C); vulnerable to frost.
Solution: Move indoors in fall; protect with frost cloth; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration in temperatures above 90°F (32°C); may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid wetting leaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum laxum 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 laxum 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 laxum is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum laxum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially in cooler months.
Q: Does Sedum laxum require full sun?
A: It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, though flowering may be reduced.
Q: Can Sedum laxum be grown indoors?
A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation but can be grown indoors with bright, indirect light and excellent drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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