Chocolate Fountain Sedum offers a distinctive appeal for garden enthusiasts seeking unique plants. This hybrid sedum cultivar, known for its rich, dark foliage and cascading growth habit, provides visual interest throughout the growing season. Its drought tolerance and relatively straightforward care make it a favored choice for various garden designs.
Understanding Chocolate Fountain Sedum
Chocolate Fountain Sedum, botanically known as Sedum ‘TNSEDECF’ or Hylotelephium ‘Chocolate Fountain’, is recognized for its striking dark chocolate-brown to burgundy succulent foliage. Its thick, fleshy leaves contribute to its drought-resistant nature. This perennial plant forms a dense, mounding habit with sturdy, upright stems that do not tend to flop.
It typically reaches a mature height and width of 12 to 15 inches. In late summer, it produces clusters of rose-pink, star-shaped flowers that attract pollinators like butterflies. Chocolate Fountain Sedum is hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.
Planting Chocolate Fountain Sedum
Selecting the appropriate site is important for Chocolate Fountain Sedum to thrive. This plant performs best in full sun, which intensifies its dark foliage color. While it can tolerate partial sun, especially in regions with hot summers where some afternoon shade can be beneficial, full sun exposure is generally preferred.
Well-draining soil conditions are paramount for this sedum. It flourishes in average to lean soils and can tolerate sandy or rocky substrates. Ensure the chosen location has excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging. If planting multiple specimens, space them approximately 12 to 15 inches apart; closer spacing can achieve a faster groundcover effect.
Caring for Chocolate Fountain Sedum
Full sun exposure maintains the deepest chocolate and burgundy hues. In areas with intense summer heat, a location that receives full morning sun and some afternoon shade can help protect the plant. Watering practices should accommodate the plant’s succulent nature and drought tolerance once established. During the first growing season, regular watering helps the plant develop a strong root system. After establishment, allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings; overwatering is a common pitfall that harms the plant. In hot summer periods, watering every 7 to 10 days might be necessary, while in cooler months, frequency can be reduced.
Ideal soil is well-drained, average to lean, ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.0-7.5). Rich or heavy clay soils can retain too much moisture, hindering the plant’s health. Fertilization is minimal; it generally thrives without supplemental nutrients. A light application of a balanced granular fertilizer or compost in early spring can be beneficial, but excessive fertilization can lead to weak or leggy growth. Pruning is minimal. Clean up the plant in early spring, just before new growth emerges, to remove any spent foliage. While deadheading spent blooms can maintain a tidy appearance, many gardeners leave dried flower heads for winter interest, as they can also provide food for birds.
Common Problems and Solutions
Chocolate Fountain Sedum is a robust, low-maintenance plant, but certain environmental conditions can lead to issues. The most common problem is root rot, typically resulting from overwatering or inadequate soil drainage. To address this, ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and adjust watering frequency to allow the soil to dry thoroughly.
Another concern is leggy or floppy growth, often caused by insufficient light or excessive fertilization. Providing full sun exposure helps maintain a compact form and strong stems. Reducing or eliminating fertilizer applications can also prevent overly lush, weak growth. While sedums are generally resistant to most pests, aphids might occasionally appear; a strong spray of water can often dislodge them.
Landscape Uses for Chocolate Fountain Sedum
The distinctive appearance of Chocolate Fountain Sedum makes it a versatile choice for various landscape applications. Its compact, mounding habit and dark foliage provide a strong visual contrast in garden beds and borders. It performs well when planted en masse, creating a uniform groundcover, or as an edging plant along pathways.
Chocolate Fountain Sedum is also well-suited for rock gardens, where its drought tolerance aligns with the typical conditions of such environments. For container gardening, its upright yet cascading form makes it an excellent “thriller” or “spiller,” adding depth and texture to mixed arrangements. Its unique color complements plants with lighter green, silver, or variegated foliage, enhancing the overall aesthetic of a planting.