Sedum spurium, commonly known as Caucasian stonecrop or two-row stonecrop, is a popular succulent perennial. This mat-forming plant creates a dense carpet of leaves, making it an excellent groundcover for various garden settings, including rock gardens and borders. Its resilience and minimal care requirements appeal to both experienced and new gardeners.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Sedum spurium thrives in full sun, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for robust growth and vibrant foliage color. While it tolerates partial shade, especially in intense summer heat, insufficient light causes leggy growth and reduced flowering. Ample light also helps its leaves develop characteristic burgundy or reddish tints.
Watering
As a succulent, Sedum spurium stores water in its fleshy leaves, making it highly drought-tolerant once established. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Infrequent but deep watering is preferable to frequent shallow watering; check soil moisture by inserting a finger about two inches deep before watering again. During active growth in spring and summer, watering frequency may increase, but during dormant periods or cooler months, the plant requires significantly less water, often relying solely on natural rainfall.
Soil
Well-draining soil is crucial for Sedum spurium, as it is highly susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. The plant tolerates various soil types, from sandy to loamy, and can even grow in poor or rocky soils. For containers or improving garden soil, incorporating coarse sand or perlite enhances drainage. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH is suitable, though the plant is adaptable.
Temperature and Hardiness
Sedum spurium is cold-hardy, thriving in USDA Zones 3 through 9 and tolerating a broad spectrum of temperatures. Some varieties can survive temperatures as low as -30°F (-34.4°C). While it endures various conditions, protect the plant from excessive winter wetness to prevent root damage. In extremely hot climates, providing some afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorch.
Fertilization
Sedum spurium has low fertilization requirements and thrives even in nutrient-poor soils. Excessive fertilization, especially with high-nitrogen formulas, can lead to soft, leggy growth and increased susceptibility to rot. If additional nutrients are desired, apply a diluted, balanced, water-soluble fertilizer sparingly in early spring or during the active growing season.
Maintenance and Pruning
Sedum spurium requires minimal pruning to maintain its form and health. Deadhead spent flowers in late summer to improve appearance. Trim back leggy or overgrown stems to encourage bushier, more compact growth and manage its spread.
Propagation
Propagating Sedum spurium is straightforward through stem cuttings or division. For stem cuttings, cut a healthy stem segment with at least two leaves, allow it to callous for a few days, then plant in well-draining soil. Optionally, dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting. Division involves separating established clumps, ideally in spring, and replanting the sections directly into their desired locations.
Common Issues and Solutions
Sedum spurium is robust, but its most common issue is root rot, primarily caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include stunted or yellowing plants, with roots turning brown and mushy. To remedy this, ensure proper drainage and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. While largely pest-resistant, occasional infestations of mealybugs, aphids, slugs, or snails may occur. Manage these by hand-picking, spraying with insecticidal soap, or using neem oil.