Lanceleaf Stonecrop

sedum lanceolatum

Also known as: ["Lanceleaf Sedum","Lanceleaf Stonecrop"]

Family: Crassulaceae Genus: Sedum Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A small, succulent perennial native to North America, characterized by its lance-shaped leaves and star-like yellow flowers.

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 lanceolatum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny, well-drained borders
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–20–40°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining; must avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Soil Type: Sandy, loamy soil with excellent drainage; cactus or succulent mix recommended.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of growth at once.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in brightest spot indoors.

Warning Signs: Wilting despite moist soil, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or compacted soil.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in intense sun; move outdoors in spring/summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or rocky soil

pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).

Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with gravel for aesthetics.

Temperature

50–75°F (10–24°C); prefers cool nights; hardy to USDA zones 3–9.

Avoid drafts; protect from freezing; maintain moderate humidity.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in fall/winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cutting.
  2. Let callus form.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Water lightly.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F), bright indirect light, high humidity (60–70%).

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; mature plant in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Allow cuttings to dry for a day; use bottom heat for faster roots; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; shape as desired.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead growth; shape plant; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); avoid oversized pots.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; ensure drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target roots precisely.
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 in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf damage below 20°F (-7°C); rarely fatal.

Solution: Move indoors in winter; protect from frost; provide warmth if temperatures drop below 20°F.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, stunted growth, or dehydration in prolonged heat above 90°F (32°C).

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; improve air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; water before feeding; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly in spring/summer; avoid winter feeding.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Sedum lanceolatum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Sedum lanceolatum can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, impacting the plant's ability to maintain turgor pressure and nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Sedum lanceolatum may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Sedum lanceolatum if the soil is excessively moist, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Sedum lanceolatum is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by felines.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No special precautions are necessary for cat exposure or ingestion.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Sedum lanceolatum is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by canines.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No special precautions are necessary for dog exposure or ingestion.
Humans
Non-toxic

Sedum lanceolatum is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No special precautions are necessary for human handling or consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Sedum lanceolatum toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How much water does Sedum lanceolatum need?

A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, especially in well-drained soil.

Q: Does Sedum lanceolatum attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Crassulaceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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