Pink Mongolian Stonecrop (Sedum ewersii ‘Pink Mongolian’) is a charming, low-growing succulent recognized for its distinctive foliage and attractive pink blooms. This resilient plant is a favored choice for various garden designs.
Understanding Pink Mongolian Stonecrop
Pink Mongolian Stonecrop, scientifically known as Hylotelephium ewersii (formerly Sedum ewersii), is a deciduous succulent that forms a low, mounded shape. Its stems are thin and wiry, growing up to 10 inches long, and bear thick, fleshy, pale green to gray-green leaves. These rounded leaves can measure up to 0.8 inches in diameter, providing a dense, attractive groundcover. In late summer to early fall, the plant displays vibrant, star-shaped pink to purplish-red flowers, about 0.4 inches across, that appear in clusters above the foliage. Its unique leaf coloration and late-season blooms make it a desirable addition.
Planting and Care Guide
Light Requirements
Pink Mongolian Stonecrop thrives best in full sun conditions, receiving unfiltered, direct light for most of the day. Full sun supports robust growth and vibrant flowering. The plant can also tolerate partial shade, particularly in hotter climates, but growth may be slower and flowering reduced. For optimal health, provide at least six hours of daily sunlight.
Soil Preferences
This succulent requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging and root rot. While it tolerates poor soil, it does not need rich soil. An ideal mix is sandy or gritty, ensuring good aeration and drainage. It adapts to neutral to alkaline soil pH levels.
Watering Needs
Pink Mongolian Stonecrop is a drought-tolerant plant once established, requiring infrequent watering, especially during dry periods. The “soak and dry” method is effective: thoroughly water the soil, then allow it to dry completely before watering again. Overwatering is a common issue; allow the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent problems.
Temperature and Hardiness
It tolerates both heat and cold. Pink Mongolian Stonecrop is hardy across USDA zones 2 to 9, withstanding temperatures as low as -30 to -40°F (-34.4 to -40°C). It prefers temperatures between 50 to 68°F (10 to 20°C) during active growth. Temperatures below 41°F (5°C) or above 86°F (30°C) can cause it to enter dormancy, reducing its water needs.
Fertilization
Sedums do not require extensive fertilization. A light annual feeding with a balanced fertilizer in spring as new growth emerges is sufficient. Over-fertilizing can lead to weak, leggy growth and potentially harm the plant. If your soil is very poor, incorporating some compost can provide enough nutrients.
Ideal Placement
Pink Mongolian Stonecrop is versatile for landscape applications. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, and as a groundcover due to its low maintenance. Its dense, mounded form also suits container planting as a “filler” component. This plant is highly tolerant of urban pollution, thriving in inner-city environments.
Propagation Techniques
Propagating Pink Mongolian Stonecrop is straightforward, primarily through stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are effective. To take a cutting, select a healthy stem and cut a 4 to 6-inch piece, then remove the lower leaves. These cuttings can be inserted directly into well-draining soil, or allowed to callus for a few days before planting. Roots form within a few weeks.
Division is another easy method, especially effective in spring or early summer. The plant can be carefully dug up, and the rootball gently separated into smaller sections, each with roots and foliage. These divisions can then be replanted in new locations, ensuring adequate space to grow.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Pink Mongolian Stonecrop is robust, but most issues arise from improper watering. Overwatering is the most frequent problem, leading to root rot or mushy stems, as the plant cannot tolerate standing water. Well-draining soil and allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings prevent this. If leaves turn yellow and wither, it could be a natural process for older leaves, but new yellowing could indicate a lack of minerals or sunburn.
While resistant, the plant may occasionally face minor pest issues like slugs, snails, or vine weevils. These instances are rare; proper growing conditions usually keep the plant healthy and resilient. Pink Mongolian Stonecrop is well-suited for gardeners of all levels due to its undemanding care.