Sedum

(Sedum `Dragons Blood')

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Deciduous broadleaf
Height: 3 inches to 2 feet
Shape: Spreading

Considered a herbaceous perennial, this is a large group of plants with succulent green leaves. Its foliage and flowers are both attractive.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 3 to 10
Light: Full sun
Moisture: Dry
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 7.3

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include ground cover.

Planting Notes:

Transplants readily, often rooting from broken branches and fallen leaves.
Plant in well-drained soil and in a sunny location.
Very drought tolerant. Does well on poor, dry sites.

Care:

Extremely easy to grow and maintain.
Clumps may be divided and replanted anytime during the growing season.

Problems:

No serious problems.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.
Related species:

SEDUM SPURIUM `Dragon's Blood', shown, is a low ground cover that forms a mat along the ground and has red flower spikes in summer.
SEDUM SPECTABILE `Autumn Joy' is an excellent Sedum that forms clumps of fleshy leaves and large flat heads of pink flowers in summer. Plants are 2 feet tall.

Comments:

Sedum varies in foliage, flower, and growth habit ranging from tiny mats only a few inches high to plants 2 feet high.
Sedum is often used as an edging plant, in rock gardens, on slopes, between stepping stones, and in containers.
Related to succulents, they have thick, waxy leaves and require little water.

Additional Materials:

The following Extension publications are available through your local Extension office or directly from: Virginia Tech Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne St. Blacksburg, VA 24061 #426-609 "Selecting Landscape Plants - Ground Covers"

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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