Sedum plants are a popular choice among gardeners for their low-maintenance and drought-resistant qualities. Their diverse foliage and easy-to-grow nature make them a great addition to any garden bed or container. With over 400 species, these succulent plants vary in color, texture, and size, making them incredibly versatile. To help you navigate through the different types of sedums, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you discover their unique beauty.
Stonecrop Sedums
The Stonecrop Sedums are the most commonly grown species of sedums. These plants are low-growing and usually have adorably tiny pink or white flowers in the spring and summer. Here are some of the most popular species:
Dragon’s Blood Sedum (Sedum spurium)
Named for its red, plummy leaves, the Dragon’s Blood Sedum is a fast-growing perennial species that thrives in well-draining soil with good sun exposure.
Angelina Sedum (Sedum rupestre)
This type of sedum, also known as the Golden Sedum, has evergreen foliage with chartreuse leaves that turn red in the winter. It’s ideal for covering large areas or as a groundcover alongside paths.
Blue Spruce Sedum (Sedum reflexum)
This hardy, drought-tolerant plant features attractive, needle-like leaves that are blue-green in color. Blue Spruce Sedum is perfect for rock gardens, or as a ground cover.
Creeping Sedums
Creeping sedums are a great way to fill in gaps between pavers or in other small spaces. These low-growing sedums have a spreading nature, which allows them to expand quickly and form dense mats of foliage. Here are some of the most popular creeping sedums:
John Creech Sedum (Sedum spurium ‘John Creech’)
This low-growing species produces tiny white or pink flowers in late spring to early summer. It’s perfect for planting in between stepping stones or as a groundcover.
Gold Moss Sedum (Sedum acre)
Also known as the Biting Stonecrop, this highly drought-tolerant sedum has a bright green foliage that turns reddish in the winter. It produces yellow flowers in the summer, and it’s deer-resistant.
Tall Sedums
Tall sedums grow up to 2 feet in height, making them perfect for the back of a border or as a feature plant. Here are three popular tall sedums:
Autumn Joy Sedum (Sedum spectabile)
This plant has rosy-pink blooms that appear in the late summer to early fall. Its flowers change color as they mature, eventually becoming a deep coppery-red that looks stunning in fall gardens.
Matrona Sedum (Sedum ‘Matrona’)
The Matrona Sedum features fleshy, reddish-brown leaves that surround pink flowers. It grows up to 2 feet tall and makes an excellent border or accent plant.
Red Cauliflower Sedum (Sedum spurium ‘Fuldaglut’)
This tall sedum has succulent, needle-like foliage that turns deep red in the fall. It produces clusters of pinkish-red flowers in late summer that contrast beautifully with its leaves.
Concluding thoughts on types of sedums
Sedums are a fantastic addition to any garden, offering low-maintenance beauty that ranges from sprawling groundcovers to stunning show-stoppers at the back of the border. By planting a mixture of species, you can create a garden that blooms throughout the year with varying textures and colors. With proper care, Sedums can thrive almost anyplace and will continue to bring beauty to your garden for years.
FAQs about types of sedums
Q: Are sedums drought-tolerant?
A: Yes! Sedums are drought-tolerant and prefer well-draining soil. They are perfect for water-wise gardening.
Q: Can I grow sedums in pots?
A: Yes! Sedums are perfect for container gardening. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
Q: How often should I water sedums?
A: While sedums are drought-tolerant, they still require regular watering until the plant is well-established. Water them once a week during the growing season, and sparingly in the winter.
In conclusion, sedums are a versatile, easy-to-grow, and beautiful addition to any garden. By planting a mixture of species, you can create a garden that blooms all year round with varying textures and colors. So, go ahead and explore the beautiful world of sedums; your garden will thank you.
