Sedum adolphi ‘Sunstorm’ is a succulent prized for its distinctive coloration and relatively easy care. It showcases warm hues, ranging from sunny yellow to vibrant orange and fiery red, often intensifying with increased sun exposure. This guide offers information to help cultivate a thriving ‘Sunstorm’ in your home or garden.
Understanding Sedum Adolphi ‘Sunstorm’
Sedum adolphi ‘Sunstorm’, also known as Golden Sedum or Golden Glow, is a succulent native to Mexico. It exhibits a compact, rosette form with fleshy, paddle-shaped leaves that can grow up to 1.4 inches long. The leaves are bright yellow, with their tips developing a reddish tinge when exposed to more sunlight.
This plant remains relatively small, reaching an average height of about 8-10 inches, and features colorful stems that branch out and spread readily. Its trailing growth habit makes it suitable for various settings, including hanging baskets, rock gardens, and container arrangements.
Care Requirements
Light
Sedum adolphi ‘Sunstorm’ thrives in bright, direct sunlight, ideally receiving at least 6 hours per day. Ample light is important for developing and maintaining the plant’s vibrant orange, red, and yellow hues. While it enjoys sun, intense afternoon sun in very hot climates can cause sunburn, leading to wilting and dehydration. If grown indoors, a south-facing window or a grow light that provides sufficient intensity helps prevent color loss and stretching.
Watering
Watering is important for this succulent, adhering to the “soak and dry” method. Water the plant thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering is a common issue, as consistently damp soil can lead to root rot. During winter, reduce watering significantly, as the plant requires less moisture when growth slows.
Soil
Well-draining soil is a requirement for Sedum adolphi ‘Sunstorm’. A succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal, often amended with mineral grit like perlite or pumice to enhance drainage. This prevents water from pooling around the roots, which causes rot. The container should also have drainage holes for water exit.
Temperature and Humidity
Sedum adolphi ‘Sunstorm’ prefers average room temperatures, thriving between 65°F to 80°F. It tolerates heat well but is sensitive to cold temperatures, particularly frost. If temperatures are expected to drop below 20°F, bring container-grown plants indoors for protection. It has low humidity requirements and adapts to various humidity levels.
Fertilizing
Sedum adolphi ‘Sunstorm’ is not a heavy feeder and requires minimal fertilization. If desired, a light application of a balanced, diluted succulent or cactus fertilizer can be applied during the active growing season. Dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength to prevent over-fertilization, which can lead to weak growth. Avoid fertilizing during the plant’s dormant winter period.
Propagation
Propagating Sedum adolphi ‘Sunstorm’ is straightforward, with stem and leaf cuttings as methods. For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem about 3-4 inches long and cut just below a leaf node. Allow the cutting to dry and callous for a few days in a shaded, dry area to prevent rot. Plant the calloused stem in well-draining succulent mix, burying the node.
Leaf propagation is also successful; gently twist off plump, healthy leaves, ensuring the entire leaf detaches. Place these leaves on a dry surface in a shaded spot for a few days to callous. Once calloused, lay the leaves on top of a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Roots and tiny plantlets, or “pups,” emerge within a few weeks. New plants can be potted individually once the mother leaf shrivels.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Etiolation, or stretching, occurs when Sedum adolphi ‘Sunstorm’ does not receive enough light. The stems become elongated with widely spaced leaves, and the vibrant ‘Sunstorm’ coloration may fade to a pale green. To remedy this, gradually increase the plant’s light exposure, but avoid sudden, intense sunlight to prevent scorching.
Color loss, the reduction of orange and red hues, is also directly linked to insufficient light. Providing adequate direct sunlight, especially morning sun for 5-6 hours, helps maintain and intensify these characteristic colors. If leaves become soft and mushy, this indicates overwatering and potential root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and ensure drainage to prevent this.
Conversely, crispy or dry leaves can suggest underwatering, though it is drought-tolerant. Ensure the plant receives thorough watering when the soil is completely dry, but adjust frequency based on environmental conditions. While resilient, it can occasionally attract pests like mealybugs or aphids. These can often be dislodged with a strong spray of water or treated with a diluted insecticidal soap solution.