Two-row Stonecrop
sedum spurium
Also known as: [" Caucasian Stonecrop","Two-row Sedum"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming succulent with fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers, native to the Caucasus region.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum spurium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, ground cover, or container plantings
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–20–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; essential to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; avoid deep shade for best foliage color.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure soil dries out between waterings.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if drainage is poor.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–9; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 90°F; prefers cool nights during active growth.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; do not over-fertilize; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings root easily in soil or water.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch stem cuttings.
- Let them callus for a day.
- Plant in moist soil.
- Keep lightly moist until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright, indirect light; high humidity (e.g., using a propagation dome) helps but is not essential.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix (e.g., cactus mix or regular potting soil with added perlite or sand).
Hormone
Not necessary, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, small pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged; provide bright indirect light.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut them just above a leaf node; shear for a more uniform shape.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead/damaged stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; 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; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid letting the plant sit in water. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to once a month or less in fall and winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning edges in extreme heat; stunted growth or blackened leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Plants may become dormant in winter; prolonged freezing can damage roots if soil is waterlogged.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot; apply a layer of mulch for insulation in winter; protect from harsh winds.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in excessive heat; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; water deeply in the morning; increase humidity around the plant if indoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply once in early spring and once in midsummer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum spurium is non-toxic to cats. No toxic effects or physiological impacts have been reported following ingestion by felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum spurium is non-toxic to dogs. There are no documented toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion by canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum spurium is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested in typical amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Sedum spurium be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Sedum spurium attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Q: Can Sedum spurium be grown indoors?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant, but can be grown indoors with bright light and good air circulation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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