Sedum makinoi aka Stonecrop
Taxonomy
Sedum makinoi is a creeping, evergreen perennial that reaches a height of up to 5cm. Its fleshy, red-tinted leaves are held on succulent stems. During the summer, it produces starry yellow flowers. This plant thrives in raised beds, troughs, and can even be grown as a houseplant.
The Sedum genus encompasses a wide range of plants that are native to various regions worldwide. Through horticultural breeding, numerous varieties have been created, boasting a variety of shapes and colors. These plants have succulent leaves that store water, making them highly adaptable. Propagation is easy, as simply detaching a leaf and providing water and sunlight can lead to the growth of a new plant.
One specific Sedum variety is Sedum tornado, which features glossy, small leaves growing on a red stem. The leaf color ranges from light green to dark green. This compact plant forms a small ball in its pot, originating from Costa Rica. The Sedum genus includes hundreds of varieties, many of which are cultivated for their vibrant appearance. Most of these varieties are found in the northern hemisphere. These succulent plants store water in their leaves and typically grow to about 2cm tall. Over time, they may lean back to the ground and produce new roots where they make contact with the soil. Yellow flowers are produced on tall stems, adding to their visual appeal. Hardy and visually striking, Sedum plants are often utilized in rockeries, hanging baskets, and water-wise gardens.
Common names
Stonecrop, Sedum Alfredo Var. Makinoi, Oregon Stonecrop, Japanese Stonecrop, Round Leaf StonecropHow to care for Stonecrop
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Stonecrop is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Stonecrop does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
The Stonecrop is very susceptible to soil that is too wet, so it's essential to choose a potting soil that drains well and does not retain excessive moisture. A soil mix that includes plenty of perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. You can easily create this type of soil by adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store.
Lighting
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 Japanese Stonecrop.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Stonecrop plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Stonecrop is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
Stonecrop prefers dry environments, but by misting the plant or providing extra humidity, water will linger on the leaves and create an ideal environment for fungi that could be harmful.
Fertilizer
The Stonecrop is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.
Region of origin
Stonecrop’s native range is Northern Hemisphere, South America, and Africa.
More info:
Wikipedia
