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Complete guide to sedum 'spurium variegatum' care

A sedum ‘spurium variegatum’ is about as low-effort as it gets. They’re sometimes known as stonecrop because they need about the same amount of care as stones: almost none.

A close up detail photo of a sedum 'spurium variegatum'

The reason sedum plants need so little care is because they store water in those thick, fleshy leaves to get them through long periods of drought. In the wild, they’re mainly found in places where the weather is hot and dry. Just keep in mind that they like:

  • A sunny spot so they can soak up the rays
  • Very little water. In fact, rainwater alone should be completely fine
  • A little feed in early spring if you’re keen to see their flowers
  • They can cope with temperatures as low as -15°C but they don’t like very wet weather. Try to keep them somewhere sheltered in winter

About sedum 'spurium variegatum'

Sedum 'spurium variegatum', we call ours Sandy, is a low-growing, drought-tolerant succulent with trailing stems that grow clusters of small, star-shaped pink flowers in the summer. This plant is perfect for rock gardens, borders, or as a ground cover due to its spreading nature.

How much light does my sedum 'spurium variegatum' need?

Sedum 'spurium variegatum' prefers full sun to partial shade. Pop your plant in a spot that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. It’s unlikely in the UK, but if you live in an area with hot summers, it’s best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.

How often should I water my sedum 'spurium variegatum'?

Your sedum 'spurium variegatum' is incredibly drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out between waterings. If you haven’t had rain for quite a while, water your plant deeply. Generally natural rainwater will be plenty for these succulents.

What type of soil does my sedum 'spurium variegatum' need?

A sedum 'spurium variegatum' prefers well-draining soil, and it can grow in a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy. They’re particularly good for rockeries or green roofs. However, it’s important that the soil isn’t too rich, as this can lead to too much growth and weaker stems. If you’re worried about waterlogged soil, add coarse sand or gravel to improve drainage.

What’s the best temperature for my sedum 'spurium variegatum'?

Your sedum 'spurium variegatum' is pretty hardcore and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -15°C to 40°C. As tempting as it is to test nature’s limits, it’s best to avoid placing your sedum in locations with extreme temperatures, as this can damage the plant. Time to put away the cryo chamber…

Should I fertilise my sedum 'spurium variegatum'?

Your sedum 'spurium variegatum' doesn’t need regular fertilising. To encourage more flowers, you can fertilise in early spring with a diluted balanced, water-soluble fertiliser. However, be careful not to over-fertilise, as this can lead to excessive growth (yes, there is such a thing) and weaker stems.

Do I need to prune my sedum 'spurium variegatum'?

Your sedum 'spurium variegatum' needs minimal pruning, but you can trim back any dead or damaged stems in the spring to promote healthy growth. It won’t grow particularly tall, but it will spread pretty wide, so cut back any stems that are taking over. If you notice any leggy stems, give them the chop to encourage bushier growth and a more compact shape.

Can I propagate my sedum 'spurium variegatum'?

A sedum 'spurium variegatum' is very easy to propagate through stem cuttings. Take a stem cutting with at least two leaves and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Water lightly and keep the soil moist until the cutting develops roots and new growth.

A sedum 'spurium variegatum' is a low-maintenance plant that can add a splash of colour to your garden or landscape. With the right amount of sunlight, well-draining soil, and proper watering, your plant will thrive.

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