Glaucous Stonecrop
sedum glaucophyllum
Also known as: ["Glaucous Sedum","Blue Sedum"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with fleshy, glaucous-blue leaves and star-shaped yellow flowers, native to rocky areas.
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 glaucophyllum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, succulent containers, or sunny, dry slopes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand for improved drainage.
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; remove only dead, damaged, or overgrown stems unless reshaping is required.
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, position 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 hours; adjust light exposure gradually.
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 rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; use a mix with inorganic components for succulents.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild heat but prefers cooler conditions in winter, down to 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent room temperature indoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer
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 healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep lightly moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting hormone powder or gel is recommended for faster results.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Clean 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
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; pinch back tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any damaged or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; 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
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. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent waterlogging. 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, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
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 below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaves to scorch, wilt, or drop, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with a mister or pebble tray; ensure good air circulation.
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 monthly during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum glaucophyllum is not known to be toxic to cats. It is considered safe for feline ingestion in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum glaucophyllum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum glaucophyllum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum glaucophyllum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Sedum glaucophyllum need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can Sedum glaucophyllum be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors with bright light, but it prefers outdoor conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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