Sedum makinoi aka Stonecrop

Sedum makinoi is a small succulent perennial called stonecrop. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family and creeps across the ground. Its native range includes China, South Korea, and Japan. Wild plants grow in rock cracks and moist, shaded forests. Its thick leaves and low stems form a close cover. It grows at a medium rate and needs little upkeep.

Garden plants reach about 0.16–0.33 feet [0.05–0.10 metres] tall. Their spread ranges from 0.33–1.64 feet [0.10–0.50 metres]. The stems are thick, round, and full of stored water. Small, fleshy leaves grow in pairs along these stems. Their edges are smooth, and their surfaces lack hairs. Green leaves may show red tints, as the RHS notes. Winter leaves form shorter, rounder rosettes. The RHS describes the plant as evergreen. Leaves can drop off easily and grow into new plants.

Yellow, star-shaped flowers rise just above the leaves in summer. Flat clusters sit at the ends of the stems. NC State places the main bloom in mid to late summer. Each flower can reach about half an inch across. The flowers draw butterflies and other pollinators to the plant. Small capsules follow the flowers. This low plant suits ground cover, borders, and rock walls. It also grows in pots or as a houseplant.

Outdoors, give it sun or part sun and good drainage. It tolerates heat, drought, and poor or rocky soil. Neutral to alkaline soils suit it. Sand, loam, and chalk appear among the listed soil types. NC State also lists clay, provided water drains well. Indoors, the RHS recommends bright light screened from direct sun. Use loam-based compost with perlite for plants under glass. Water more during growth and less during winter. No pruning is needed; spring stem cuttings offer another propagation route. Hardiness guidance differs sharply between the sources. NC State lists USDA zones 6–10, while the RHS gives H2. The latter rating means plants cannot survive freezing conditions.

Slugs and snails may damage plants, according to NC State. The RHS also lists vine weevil grubs, scale, and mealybugs. Fungal or bacterial disease may rot the roots and crown. Avoid wet soil that drains poorly. Young leaves and stems can be eaten raw. Older growth may be briefly cooked before flowering begins. Large servings can upset the stomach, and sap may irritate skin. Reports differ on whether the plant is mildly toxic. PFAF records traditional medicinal use, including crushed plants applied to wounds. Those records do not establish that such use is safe.