Sedum (Stonecrop) plant photo (Hylotelephium spectabile)
Photo: Ian Wolfe · CC0 1.0
perennial
Updated May 2026·Eastern Asia (China, Korea, Japan)

Sedum (Stonecrop)

Hylotelephium spectabile

Sedum 'Autumn Joy' provides four seasons of interest — emerging like green broccoli in spring, blooming in fall, and holding seedheads through winter snow.

USDA Zones
3-9
Sun
full sun
Water
low
Mature Size
1-2 ft tall and wide
Growth Rate
moderate
Family
Crassulaceae
Care guide

How to care for sedum (stonecrop)

Plant in lean, gritty soil — rich soil and fertilizer cause floppy stems and split centers. The Chelsea chop in late May (cutting stems back by half) produces a more compact, self-supporting plant.

Garden uses & design ideas

Best garden use

Place it in repeatable drifts through borders so the color and texture carry the eye instead of appearing as a one-off plant.

Pair it with

Russian sage, Echinacea, Ornamental grasses make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.

Layout tip

Match it with full sun exposure, group it with other low-water plants so one irrigation zone can stay lean, and check USDA zones 3-9 before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 1-2 ft tall and wide.

Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas.

Companion plants

Sedum (Stonecrop) grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.

Russian sageEchinaceaOrnamental grassesYarrowSalvia

Common pests & problems

aphidsmealybugsscale

Where it grows best

Native to Eastern Asia (China, Korea, Japan); thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.

Frequently asked about sedum (stonecrop)

What USDA zones does Sedum (Stonecrop) grow in?+

Sedum (Stonecrop) is hardy in USDA zones 3-9. Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.

How much sun does Sedum (Stonecrop) need?+

Sedum (Stonecrop) prefers full sun. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and flowering.

How often should I water Sedum (Stonecrop)?+

Sedum (Stonecrop) has low water needs. Allow the soil to dry between waterings. Plant in lean, gritty soil — rich soil and fertilizer cause floppy stems and split centers. The Chelsea chop in late May (cutting stems back by half) produces a more compact, self-supporting plant.

How big does Sedum (Stonecrop) get?+

Sedum (Stonecrop) reaches a mature size of 1-2 ft tall and wide. Growth rate is moderate, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.

What plants grow well with Sedum (Stonecrop)?+

Sedum (Stonecrop) pairs well with Russian sage, Echinacea, Ornamental grasses, Yarrow, Salvia. These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.

What pests affect Sedum (Stonecrop)?+

Common Sedum (Stonecrop) problems include aphids; mealybugs; scale. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.

When does Sedum (Stonecrop) bloom?+

Sedum (Stonecrop) blooms in late summer to fall in pink to copper. Deadheading spent flowers (where applicable) often encourages a longer bloom window.

✦ Free 3D garden designer

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