I'm a large genus of succulents with water-storing leaves that range from needle-like to rounded, and in colors from green and blue to red, purple, and variegated.
My flowers are small, star-shaped, and typically appear in clusters in shades of pink, red, white, or yellow, attracting bees and butterflies.
I'm incredibly drought-tolerant and can grow in poor, rocky soil where few other plants survive.
I'm perfect for rock gardens, green roofs, containers, and as ground cover.

I am native to many regions across the Northern Hemisphere, with species found in North America, Europe, and Asia.

I am extremely drought-tolerant once established.
Water me only when the soil is completely dry—usually every 2-3 weeks.
Overwatering is my biggest enemy—I'm prone to root rot in soggy soil.
I store water in my leaves, so I can handle long dry spells.

I thrive in full sun.
At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily will keep me compact and colorful.
Some varieties can tolerate light shade but may become leggy.

I'm quite hardy and can handle a range of temperatures.
Most varieties can survive temperatures from -20°C to 35°C.
I actually prefer cool nights and warm days.

Choose a location with excellent drainage—raised beds or slopes are ideal.

Use a sandy, well-draining soil mix—regular potting soil with added perlite or gravel works well.

Space plants according to variety—ground covers can be planted close together.

Plant at the same depth as in the nursery container.

Water lightly after planting, then wait until soil dries before watering again.

I'm easily propagated from stem or leaf cuttings.

I'm a very light feeder. A diluted succulent fertilizer applied once in spring is sufficient.
Too much fertilizer can cause weak, leggy growth.
Compost mixed into the soil at planting time is usually enough.

Scientific Name: Sedum spp.

Common Names: Stonecrop, Orpine, Live-forever

Plant Family: Crassulaceae

Plant Type: Outdoor succulent (some varieties for indoors)

I am generally non-toxic to cats and dogs, making me a safe choice for pet-friendly gardens.

While I'm mainly grown for ornament, I do help improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.

Extremely drought-tolerant and low maintenance

Excellent for erosion control on slopes

Attracts pollinators with nectar-rich flowers

Perfect for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens

Many varieties provide winter interest

Root rot - From overwatering or poor drainage

Mealybugs - Can hide in leaf axils

Snails and slugs - May bother some varieties

Leggy growth - Not enough sunlight

Winter wet - Can rot some varieties in cold, wet conditions

I'm generally long-lived! Most perennial sedums can thrive for 5-15 years or more. I'm easy to propagate, so you can always renew your plants and share with friends. Many varieties will slowly spread to form beautiful, durable ground covers that improve each year.