The ‘Sunsparkler® Dream Dazzler’ stonecrop is a captivating succulent that brings vibrant color and texture to various garden settings. Its low-maintenance nature and striking appearance make it a popular choice for gardeners. This stonecrop offers dynamic visual interest, transforming throughout the seasons.
Key Characteristics
‘Sunsparkler® Dream Dazzler’ stonecrop (Sedum rupestre ‘Dream Dazzler’) features foliage that changes color throughout the year. New growth in spring emerges with shades of pink, white, and purple. As summer progresses and sun exposure intensifies, the leaves transition to a deep plum or dark purple with vibrant hot pink edges.
This perennial forms a compact, mounding habit, reaching 6 to 8 inches tall and spreading 12 to 18 inches wide. Its dense growth helps suppress weeds, making it an effective groundcover. In late summer to early fall, clusters of bright raspberry-pink or magenta flowers appear, attracting butterflies and other pollinators. This stonecrop is hardy, thriving in USDA Zones 4 through 9, able to withstand both sub-zero temperatures and hot, humid conditions.
Planting and Growing Conditions
For vibrant coloration, ‘Sunsparkler® Dream Dazzler’ stonecrop requires full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While it thrives in full sun, it can tolerate some light afternoon shade in the hottest southern regions. Proper light exposure is important for the plant’s characteristic foliage colors to fully develop.
This stonecrop performs best in well-draining soil, thriving even in lean, sandy, or gritty loam. Avoid heavy clay soils, as poor drainage can lead to root issues. Amending soil to achieve a pH range of 5.8 to 6.2 can be beneficial.
When planting, space plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for their mature spread. This spacing ensures adequate air circulation and room for the plant to form its characteristic mat. After planting, water thoroughly to help establish the root system and allow the plant to settle into its new environment.
Ongoing Care
Once established, ‘Sunsparkler® Dream Dazzler’ stonecrop is drought tolerant, requiring infrequent but deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as overwatering can impair growth and lead to root rot. During prolonged dry periods, especially in the first growing season, supplemental watering may be beneficial.
Fertilization needs for this stonecrop are minimal, as sedums generally thrive in lean conditions. For very poor soils, a light application of an all-purpose granular fertilizer in early spring can provide sufficient nutrients. In more fertile soils, fertilization may only be necessary every other year. Over-fertilizing can lead to lanky, weak-stemmed growth rather than the desired compact form.
Pruning is generally not required, but spent blooms can be removed to maintain a tidy appearance. A light shear after flowering in the fall can also help clean up the plant. This stonecrop is resistant to pests and diseases, especially when grown in well-drained soil. In colder zones, no special winter protection is needed, as it is cold-hardy.
Landscaping Applications
‘Sunsparkler® Dream Dazzler’ stonecrop is a versatile plant for various garden designs, offering vibrant foliage and a compact form. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens, where its spreading habit can spill over stones and crevices. Its ability to thrive in dry, sunny conditions also makes it suitable for xeriscape designs, reducing the need for extensive irrigation.
This stonecrop functions well as a groundcover, forming a dense mat. It also makes an appealing edging plant for borders or pathways, providing continuous color. For container gardening, ‘Sunsparkler® Dream Dazzler’ serves as a “spiller,” allowing its colorful foliage to cascade over the pot’s edge.
When selecting companion plants, consider those that complement its purple and pink hues. Other succulents, ornamental grasses, or plants with contrasting textures and colors can create visually interesting combinations. For example, plants that tolerate similar dry, sunny conditions, such as ornamental grasses or other low-growing perennials, pair well with this stonecrop.