Blue Sedum
sedum cyaneum
Also known as: ["Blue Stonecrop","Cobalt Sedum"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with fleshy, blue-grey leaves and star-shaped pink flowers, native to South Africa.
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 cyaneum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, container plantings, or as a ground cover in sunny, well-drained areas
- 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 waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy soil with some organic matter, such as a cactus or succulent mix.
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; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, place near an east or south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out fully between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a cactus mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; 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 cutting.
- Let it callus for a day or two.
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Keep lightly moist until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix such as cactus soil or perlite and sand.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form within 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humidifier or plastic bag to maintain humidity; ensure bright light without direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems to just above a leaf node; pinch tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any leggy or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or damaged stems; shape as desired.
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
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Necessary to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; discard excess water; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting the leaves. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent waterlogging.
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 compost for organic matter; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) indicate stress from extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration if exposed to frost.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaves to scorch, wilt, or drop, especially if combined with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure proper ventilation to avoid overheating.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer (half-strength) once a month during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum cyaneum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum cyaneum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum cyaneum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum cyaneum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Sedum cyaneum need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Q: Can Sedum cyaneum be grown indoors?
A: While it can be grown indoors, it requires bright light and good air circulation to thrive.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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