Sedum spathulifolium ‘Carnea’, commonly known as Stonecrop, is a distinctive succulent prized for its ornamental qualities and resilience. This cultivar is a favored choice among gardeners seeking low-maintenance, visually engaging plants. Its popularity stems from its ability to thrive in various settings, providing continuous interest throughout the year.
Identifying Characteristics
This Stonecrop features attractive rosettes of tiny, succulent leaves. The foliage is typically silvery-gray, blushing with rosy pink, bronze, or reddish tones when exposed to direct sun or colder temperatures. In fall and cold weather, leaves often deepen to crimson or reddish-purple, adding seasonal color.
Sedum spathulifolium ‘Carnea’ grows as a low, mat-forming plant, reaching 2 to 5 inches tall, with flowers extending to about 4 inches. It spreads 12 to 18 inches wide, forming a dense groundcover. In late spring to mid-summer, the plant produces clusters of star-shaped, bright yellow flowers that rise above the foliage, attracting pollinators. As an evergreen perennial, its appealing foliage remains throughout the year.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Sedum spathulifolium ‘Carnea’ thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, but tolerates partial shade. Adequate light exposure is important for the foliage to develop its most vibrant pink and red coloration.
The plant requires extremely well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A gritty soil mix is ideal, often achieved by amending regular potting soil with 50% coarse sand, pumice, or perlite. This Stonecrop is adaptable, succeeding even in poor soils and tolerating a range of soil pH levels and environmental salt.
Once established, this succulent is highly drought-tolerant, storing water in its fleshy leaves. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Young plants benefit from more regular watering to establish robust root systems.
This Sedum is remarkably cold-hardy, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 4b through 10b. It can tolerate temperatures down to -15°C (5°F). During summer, temperatures between 65-75°F (18-25°C) are optimal, and it’s best to avoid consistent temperatures below 50-55°F (10-12.7°C).
Planting and Propagation
Spring or fall are the most favorable times for planting Sedum spathulifolium ‘Carnea’, allowing the plant to establish before extreme temperatures. For mass planting or groundcover, space individual plants approximately 16 inches apart to allow for their spreading habit.
Propagating this Stonecrop is straightforward due to its ability to root easily. Division of existing plants is an effective method, where the rootball is carefully separated. Stem cuttings also provide a simple way to create new plants; simply cut a section of stem, typically 2 inches or longer, and allow it to re-root in well-draining soil.
Landscape Applications
Sedum spathulifolium ‘Carnea’ is a versatile plant for various landscape designs. Its low-growing, mat-forming habit makes it an excellent choice for groundcover, particularly in sunny, well-drained areas. It is frequently used in rock gardens, where its silvery rosettes and colorful tints complement stones and other alpine plants.
This Stonecrop also performs well in containers, troughs, and as an edging plant. Its drought tolerance and low-maintenance nature make it ideal for xeriscaping, reducing the need for supplemental irrigation. It can also be integrated into green roofs due to its shallow root system and ability to withstand harsh conditions.