Sedum Varieties: Beautiful Ground Cover Options explores a range of sedum species that serve as excellent ground cover options. With over 500 species in the genus, sedums, also known as stonecrop, are hardy and drought-tolerant perennials.
These plants thrive in xeriscapes, rock gardens, and containers. They adapt to various USDA Hardiness Zones and provide long-lasting coverage. Popular sedum varieties include White Sedum, Pink Mongolian Stonecrop, ‘Blue Spruce’ Sedum, and ‘Purple Emperor’.
Their attractive foliage and colorful flowers add visual interest, while their low-growing and spreading nature helps prevent soil erosion. Propagation through stem cuttings allows for easy expansion of a sedum collection.
White Sedum (Sedum Album
White Sedum, also known as Sedum album, is a stunning ground cover option with its white flowers and low-growing nature. It is commonly used in landscaping to create a beautiful carpet-like effect.
The best growing conditions for white sedum include full sun exposure and well-draining soil. It is a drought-tolerant plant, making it suitable for dry and sunny areas. White sedum can also be planted in rock gardens or along slopes to help prevent soil erosion.
Its low maintenance requirements make it a popular choice for homeowners. Additionally, white sedum can be used in containers or hanging baskets to add visual interest to outdoor spaces.
Overall, white sedum is a versatile and attractive option for those looking to enhance their landscape.
Murale’ (Sedum Album ‘Murale
‘Murale’ is a popular variety of sedum album that is known for its ability to provide long-lasting ground cover. This sedum variety has attractive blue-green leaves and forms dense mats of foliage, making it an excellent choice for filling in bare areas in sunny gardens or rockeries.
‘Murale’ is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-draining soil and full sun. It is also drought-tolerant and can withstand dry conditions.
Propagation methods for ‘Murale’ include stem cuttings, which can be easily rooted to create new plants. This variety of sedum is adaptable and can be planted at any time of the year, allowing for quick establishment and growth.
With its hardy nature and ability to provide beautiful ground cover, ‘Murale’ is a favored option for gardeners seeking a versatile and low-maintenance sedum variety.
Cascade Stonecrop (Sedum Divergens
Cascade Stonecrop, also known as Sedum divergens, is a fast-growing plant that forms dense mats of foliage, making it an ideal choice for filling in bare areas in sunny gardens or rockeries. This low-growing perennial is native to the mountains of North America and thrives in well-drained soil. Cascade Stonecrop is highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, including poor soil and drought. It is best grown in full sun to part shade, although it can tolerate some shade.
Propagation techniques for Cascade Stonecrop include stem cuttings and division. Stem cuttings can be taken in the spring or early summer and rooted in moist potting soil. Division can be done in the spring or fall by separating the clumps and replanting them.
| Growing Conditions for Cascade Stonecrop | |
|---|---|
| Light Requirements | Full sun to part shade |
| Soil Type | Well-drained |
| Watering | Moderate |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 4-9 |
Pink Mongolian Stonecrop (Hylotelephium Ewersii
Pink Mongolian Stonecrop, also known as Hylotelephium ewersii, is a low-maintenance perennial that produces beautiful pink flowers and is suitable for sunny areas and rock gardens. This sedum variety is known for its attractive foliage and its ability to provide long-lasting ground cover.
Here are some key points about Pink Mongolian Stonecrop:
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Propagation methods: Pink Mongolian Stonecrop can be easily propagated using stem cuttings. This allows for expanding your sedum collection without having to purchase new plants.
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Best growing conditions: Pink Mongolian Stonecrop thrives in full sun and is tolerant of light shade. It is a hardy and drought-tolerant perennial that can survive in various USDA Hardiness Zones. It is well-suited for rocky terrain and is commonly used in xeriscaping and rock gardens.
Blue Spruce’ Sedum (Sedum Reflexum ‘Blue Spruce’ or S. Rupestre ‘Blue Spruce
The ‘Blue Spruce’ sedum, also known as Sedum reflexum ‘Blue Spruce’ or S. rupestre ‘Blue Spruce’, is a drought-tolerant perennial that grows well in full sun and is commonly used in xeriscaping and rock gardens.
This sedum variety is valued for its attractive blue-green foliage that resembles the branches of a blue spruce tree. As ground cover in rock gardens, the ‘Blue Spruce’ sedum provides a low-growing and spreading nature, creating a carpet-like effect. Its dense growth helps prevent soil erosion and adds visual interest to the garden with its yellow flowers that bloom in summer.
Propagation of the ‘Blue Spruce’ sedum is easy and can be accomplished through stem cuttings. This makes it a cost-effective way to expand your sedum collection while enjoying the benefits of its beauty and resilience in rock gardens.
Japanese Stonecrop (Hylotelephium Sieboldii
Japanese Stonecrop, also known as Hylotelephium sieboldii, is a perennial plant that thrives in full sun or light shade and is admired for its pink flowers and attractive foliage. This sedum variety has specific propagation methods and growing conditions that are important to consider for successful cultivation.
Propagation Methods:
- Stem Cuttings: Japanese Stonecrop can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. Simply take a healthy stem and remove the lower leaves. Place the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it moist until roots develop.
Growing Conditions:
- Sunlight: Japanese Stonecrop prefers full sun to light shade. Ensure it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Soil: Well-draining soil is essential for the plant’s health. Sandy or loamy soil with good drainage is ideal.
- Watering: Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Temperature: Japanese Stonecrop is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures.
- Maintenance: Prune the plant in early spring to encourage new growth and remove any dead or damaged parts.
Purple Emperor’ (Hylotelephium Telephium ‘Purple Emperor
‘Purple Emperor’ is a stunning sedum variety admired for its rich foliage color and hardy nature. This sedum variety belongs to the Hylotelephium telephium species and is known for its deep purple leaves that add a touch of elegance to any garden. ‘Purple Emperor’ is a low-growing ground cover that forms dense mats of foliage, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, or containers.
Propagation techniques for ‘Purple Emperor’ include stem cuttings, which can be taken in spring or early summer. Care and maintenance tips for this sedum variety involve providing full sun exposure and well-draining soil. It is also important to water ‘Purple Emperor’ sparingly, as sedums are drought-tolerant plants. Pruning can be done in spring to remove any dead or damaged foliage. With proper care, ‘Purple Emperor’ will thrive and continue to impress with its beautiful foliage color.
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Light Requirements | Mature Size |
|---|---|---|
| 3-9 | Full sun | 6-12 inches |
Angelina’ Stonecrop (Sedum Rupestre ‘Angelina
‘Angelina’ Stonecrop, also known as Sedum rupestre ‘Angelina’, is a vibrant and fast-growing sedum variety that features bright, yellowish-green foliage. This sedum variety has many uses in landscaping due to its unique characteristics and low maintenance requirements.
Here are some ways to incorporate ‘Angelina’ stonecrop in your landscape:
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Ground cover: ‘Angelina’ stonecrop spreads quickly, making it an excellent choice for ground cover in sunny areas.
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Rock gardens: The low-growing habit and attractive foliage of ‘Angelina’ stonecrop make it a perfect addition to rock gardens.
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Containers: ‘Angelina’ stonecrop thrives in containers and adds a pop of color to any patio or balcony.
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Erosion control: The dense growth of ‘Angelina’ stonecrop helps prevent soil erosion on slopes or areas prone to erosion.
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Mixed borders: ‘Angelina’ stonecrop can be planted alongside other perennials to create a dynamic and textured border.
To care for ‘Angelina’ stonecrop, provide well-draining soil and full sun to ensure optimal growth. Water sparingly, as ‘Angelina’ stonecrop is drought-tolerant. Trim back any dead or damaged foliage in early spring to encourage new growth. With proper care, ‘Angelina’ stonecrop will thrive in your landscape and provide year-round beauty.
Chinese Sedum (Sedum Tetractinum ‘Coral Reef
Chinese Sedum, also known as Sedum tetractinum ‘Coral Reef,’ is a low-maintenance and drought-tolerant succulent with vibrant foliage and beautiful yellow or pink flowers.
This sedum variety has several benefits as a ground cover. Its low-growing and spreading nature creates a carpet-like effect when planted in mass, making it ideal for preventing soil erosion.
Chinese Sedum thrives in sunny areas and rock gardens, adding visual interest with its attractive foliage colors. To properly care for and maintain Chinese Sedum, it is important to provide full sun exposure and well-drained soil.
This succulent is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Regular pruning can help maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.
Additionally, Chinese Sedum can be propagated easily through stem cuttings, allowing for expansion of the collection without purchasing new plants.
Dragon’s Blood’ Sedum (Sedum Spurium ‘Dragon’s Blood’)
‘Dragon’s Blood’ Sedum (Sedum spurium ‘Dragon’s Blood’) is another popular variety of sedum that makes for beautiful ground cover. This sedum is known for its striking red foliage, which intensifies during the cooler months. It forms a dense mat of succulent leaves that create a stunning visual display in the garden.
Propagation techniques for ‘Dragon’s Blood’ Sedum include using stem cuttings, which can easily be rooted in well-draining soil. This allows for the expansion of your sedum collection without the need to purchase new plants.
To care for and maintain ‘Dragon’s Blood’ Sedum, it is important to provide it with full sun and well-draining soil. This variety is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established. Regular pruning can help maintain its compact form and promote healthy growth. Additionally, ‘Dragon’s Blood’ Sedum is a low-maintenance plant that requires little attention once established.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Sedums Be Grown in Containers or Pots?
Yes, sedums can be grown in containers or pots. They are well-suited for vertical gardening, as they have a low-growing and spreading nature. Using sedums in containers provides benefits such as easy maintenance and the ability to create a beautiful visual display.
How Often Should Sedums Be Watered?
Sedum watering tips: Establish a watering routine for sedums to avoid overwatering or underwatering. Best practices include watering deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, and adjusting watering frequency according to weather conditions.
Are Sedums Deer-Resistant?
Sedums in landscaping are often deer-resistant due to their tough foliage and strong scent. To keep sedums healthy, provide well-drained soil, full sun, and water sparingly. Pruning in early spring promotes compact growth.
How Do I Prevent Sedums From Becoming Invasive?
To prevent sedums from becoming invasive, gardeners can employ various strategies. These include regular maintenance such as pruning and dividing the plants, as well as using physical barriers like edging or planting them in containers.
Can Sedums Be Used as a Ground Cover in Shady Areas?
Shade tolerant sedum varieties can be used as ground cover in shady areas. They are one of the best ground cover alternatives for such areas. Their low-growing and spreading nature helps prevent soil erosion.
