Phedimus spurius aka Caucasian Stonecrop

Taxonomy

Phedimus spurius, also known as Sedum spurium, is a fast-spreading, mat-forming evergreen perennial plant in the family Crassulaceae. Native to the Caucasus Mountains, it has slender, fibrous roots and a long, creeping rhizome. The plant produces numerous creeping, rooting stems that can reach up to 15 cm long, forming dense mats that can grow from 30-70 cm or more in diameter and 7.5 cm tall. The leaves are fleshy, flat, or rounded and vary in size and dentation. In late summer, the plant bears rounded clusters of starry flowers that are 4-5-parted and come in colors such as red, pink, white, and yellow, attracting bees and butterflies. Like all plants in the same genus, the flowers of S. spurium have 5 petals and 5 stamens. It is widely cultivated and a number of cultivars are available. This dwarf plant is one of the most rewarding plants in cultivation when it comes to flowering. However, it causes low toxicity if eaten and should be spaced 4 to 6 inches apart in well-draining soil for good drought tolerance.

Common names

Caucasian Stonecrop, Two Row Stonecrop, False Stonecrop

How to care for Caucasian Stonecrop

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Caucasian Stonecrop due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Caucasian Stonecrop does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

When growing the Caucasian Stonecrop, it's important to use a potting soil that is well-draining and does not retain excessive moisture. An optimal soil mix should contain a high proportion of perlite or vermiculite for good drainage and some organic matter for nourishment. Simply add a few scoops of perlite to regular cactus soil to achieve this.

Lighting

Caucasian Stonecrop thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your False Stonecrop.

Toxicity

Caucasian Stonecrop is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Humidity

Caucasian Stonecrop plants thrive in dry environments, however, if you choose to provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on the leaves can create an ideal environment for certain types of harmful fungi.

Fertilizer

The Caucasian Stonecrop grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Caucasian Stonecrop’s native range is Eastern Europe and Asia.

Flower

Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Caucasian Stonecrop blooming.


More info:
Wikipedia