Description
Sedum SEE-dum
Perennial plants don’t get much easier than Sedum, a genus of succulents with fleshy stems and succulent leaves—also called “stonecrop.” A hardy plant that grows well in shallow soil, this is a sedum variety for almost every garden. Sedum enjoy full sun but will tolerate some shade. If growing sedum in an area that gets long, cold winters (Zone 5 and colder), plant in full sun to improve overwintering capability. Sedum grows well in poor or sandy soil, but it’s important to have well-drained soil to avoid fungal diseases. It is very susceptible to root rot if grown in soil that holds too much moisture. Overly-rich soil can also encourage leggy growth, which can result in upright sedum varieties becoming top heavy when they bloom. Tall, upright sedums form substantial clumps of foliage which can be substituted for shrubs in the landscape. Their stout, sturdy stems support the massive flower heads which develop in summer and burst into bloom in fall. If left standing, they provide winter interest and food for birds.
