The Coppertone Stonecrop, scientifically known as Sedum nussbaumerianum, is a popular succulent cherished for its unique coppery-orange coloration. This striking hue develops on its plump, oblong leaves, making it a standout addition to rock gardens or container displays. Originating in Mexico, this low-growing perennial combines dramatic visual appeal with relatively simple care requirements. The characteristic color shifts between yellow-green and deep copper, depending on its environmental exposure.
Establishing the Coppertone Stonecrop
Achieving the plant’s signature coloration depends on providing sufficient light exposure. The Sedum nussbaumerianum requires a minimum of six hours of bright, direct sunlight daily to develop its rich, copper-toned pigmentation. When light is insufficient, the plant will remain a pale yellow-green and may begin to stretch out, a process called etiolation, as it searches for brighter conditions. This stretching results in a weaker, leggier specimen that loses its compact shape.
Proper soil composition is important for the successful establishment of this succulent. The planting medium must offer excellent drainage to prevent the roots from sitting in excess moisture. A standard succulent or cactus mix works well, but it should be amended with gritty materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to further enhance aeration and drainage. Poor drainage is the most common reason for failure in stonecrops, often leading to root rot.
The Coppertone Stonecrop is suitable for both in-ground planting and containers, thriving outdoors year-round in USDA Hardiness Zones 10 and 11. In regions outside of these warm zones, it is best grown in pots that can be easily moved indoors before the first frost. When planting in a container, selecting an unglazed terracotta pot encourages moisture evaporation through the porous sides, which aids in maintaining a dry environment.
Routine Care and Watering
Caring for the Coppertone Stonecrop revolves around its drought-tolerant nature. Overwatering is the primary threat to the plant’s health, so it is necessary to employ a “soak and dry” method. This involves watering thoroughly until water runs from the drainage holes, then allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. The frequency of watering will fluctuate significantly based on the season and temperature, requiring more water during its active growing period and less during summer dormancy.
The Sedum nussbaumerianum is not a cold-hardy variety. While it can tolerate brief, mild dips in temperature, it is susceptible to damage when temperatures drop below freezing, particularly below 30°F. Gardeners in cooler climates must bring container-grown plants indoors to a bright location before winter begins to protect them from frost damage. When moved indoors, the plant’s watering schedule should be reduced significantly, offering only enough moisture to keep the leaves from shriveling.
Fertilization is rarely necessary, as the plant naturally thrives in poor, rocky soil conditions. The plant can develop weak, stretched growth if the soil is too rich in nutrients. If growth seems stunted, a highly diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer can be applied once or twice during the spring or fall growing season. Maintaining the plant’s appearance involves occasionally removing dead leaves or pruning back any stems that have become leggy to encourage a more compact form.
Multiplying Your Plants
The Coppertone Stonecrop is one of the easiest succulents to propagate, allowing gardeners to multiply their collection using several simple methods. The quickest way to create new plants is through stem cuttings. This involves cutting a healthy stem section and letting the severed end dry for a few days. This drying period, known as callousing, seals the wound and prevents rot when the cutting is planted. Once the cut is dry, the stem can be placed directly into well-draining soil, where roots will begin to form within a few weeks.
An alternative, though slower, method is propagation using individual leaves. This process is effective and involves gently twisting a healthy leaf from the main stem, ensuring the entire base is intact. The separated leaves are then laid upon the surface of dry, well-draining soil after they have been allowed to callous for several days. The leaf will eventually sprout tiny roots and a new miniature rosette, at which point the new plant can be lightly misted until it becomes more established.