Sedum lineare, commonly known as Carpet Sedum or Stringy Stonecrop, is a popular and easy-to-grow succulent groundcover. Its low-maintenance nature and attractive appearance make it a favored choice for various garden settings, thriving where many other plants might struggle.
Understanding Sedum Lineare
Sedum lineare is characterized by its small, fleshy, needle-like leaves, typically bright green, which can develop red or pink hues with ample sunlight. This mat-forming evergreen succulent grows 4 to 6 inches tall, with trailing stems spreading 12 inches or more. It produces clusters of small, star-shaped yellow flowers from late spring to early summer, which attract pollinators. Sedum lineare is a versatile plant, used as groundcover, in rock gardens, containers, or for green roof applications due to its shallow root system and minimal soil requirements.
Cultivation and Care
Light
Sedum lineare thrives in bright conditions, ideally receiving at least six hours of full sun daily. While it can tolerate some partial shade, too much shade leads to leggy growth, where stems stretch and become sparse. If grown indoors, a well-lit south or southwest-facing window is suitable.
Watering
Proper watering is important for this succulent, as it stores water in its fleshy leaves. The “soak and dry” method is recommended: water thoroughly until water drains, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. Overwatering can cause root rot, a common problem for sedums. During winter, watering should be reduced to prevent shriveling.
Soil
Well-draining soil is crucial for Sedum lineare to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A sandy, gritty mix, such as a cactus or succulent potting mix, is ideal. This plant is adaptable to poor or low-fertility soils, and overly rich soil can sometimes lead to weak, leggy growth.
Temperature and Fertilization
Sedum lineare tolerates a wide range of temperatures, performing well between 60 to 75°F (15-24°C). It withstands temperatures over 90°F (32°C) and can tolerate freezing, though container plants may need winter protection in colder zones. Humidity is not a concern, as these plants adapt well to dry conditions. Fertilizing is generally unnecessary, as it grows well in nutrient-poor soil. If growth seems slow in very poor soil, a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied once or twice during the active growing season, but over-fertilizing can lead to lanky growth.
Propagation
Propagating Sedum lineare is straightforward using stem cuttings. Take a 4 to 6-inch segment from a healthy stem with clean, sharp pruners. Remove the leaves from the bottom inch or two of the cutting to expose the nodes where roots will form.
Allow the cut end of the stem to “callus” for a day or two in a dry, shaded area. This callusing process helps prevent rot. Plant the cutting into a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil lightly moist until new growth appears, indicating successful rooting within a few weeks.
Common Issues and Solutions
Overwatering
Overwatering frequently causes root rot in Sedum lineare. Symptoms include mushy stems, yellowing leaves, or leaves becoming transparent and falling off. Reduce watering frequency and ensure the plant is in well-draining soil. If root rot is severe, repot into fresh, dry soil after trimming any affected roots.
Legginess
Legginess, characterized by stretched-out stems with sparse leaves, indicates insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with more direct sunlight. Pruning leggy stems encourages bushier, more compact growth.
Pests
Sedum lineare is generally resistant to most insect problems. However, it can occasionally be affected by pests such as mealybugs, aphids, or slugs and snails. For mealybugs and aphids, use a strong stream of water or organic insecticidal soap. Good air circulation helps prevent pest infestations. Slugs and snails can be managed manually or with organic baits.