Prickly Stonecrop
sedum pulchellum
Also known as: ["Creeping Sedum","Little Prickly Sedum"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers, native to North America.
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 pulchellum |
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":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with some organic matter.
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 (6–8 hours/day); adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in filtered light during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; use a mix with 50% inorganic components.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; 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 fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in medium.
- 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 peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone 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 soil.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bottom heat to speed rooting; keep soil lightly moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
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 with drainage; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly 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 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 improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; avoid watering before cold nights.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring–summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum pulchellum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum pulchellum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum pulchellum is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Sedum pulchellum be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Sedum pulchellum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Q: Is Sedum pulchellum 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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