Hemsley's Stonecrop
sedum hemsleanum
Also known as: ["Hemsley Stonecrop"]
Overview
A succulent plant with fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers, native to Mexico.
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 hemsleanum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, container plantings, or xeriscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- 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 coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours per day. Can tolerate partial shade but may stretch in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks. Avoid sudden exposure to intense midday sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry out completely between waterings; reduce frequency in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil with minimal organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm, dry conditions. Avoid temperatures below 20°F (-6°C).
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; protect from frost in winter; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Both methods are highly effective for Sedum hemsleanum.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (60–70%), and bright, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss, or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting if used.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 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; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; use sterile tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node. Remove dead or leggy growth entirely.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 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 roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 4–6 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; leaf drop or blackening in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage. Prolonged cold may lead to leaf necrosis or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in winter; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting, especially if combined with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; mist foliage lightly during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply monthly during growing season (spring–summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum hemsleanum is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known substances that are harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum hemsleanum is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that are harmful to canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum hemsleanum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sedum hemsleanum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Sedum hemsleanum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Sedum hemsleanum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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