Sedum sarmentosum aka Stringy Stonecrop

Sedum sarmentosum, or stringy stonecrop, is a creeping succulent perennial. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family. Its native range runs from Thailand to Japan. Sources also list China, Korea, and Vietnam within that range. In China, it grows on rocks and shaded slopes. These sites lie below 5,249 feet [1,600 metres]. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

The plant spreads into mats as its stems take root. Chicago Botanic Garden describes mats about 0.5 feet [0.15 metres] high. Its stems reach about 0.83 feet [0.25 metres] long. NC State lists much larger dimensions in its profile. These reach 3 feet [0.91 metres] high and 10 feet [3.05 metres] wide. Its fleshy leaves grow in whorls of three. Each narrow, lance-shaped leaf has a smooth edge. The yellow-green leaves give the mat a bright look. The stems have no scent, and the leaves lack hairs.

Small yellow flowers form star shapes in clusters called cymes. Each flower has four or five petals. Summer is the main flowering season in the sources. Chicago lists July to August, but its text gives an earlier season. That text places bloom in late spring and early summer. Bees visit the flowers for nectar. Chicago also lists birds and butterflies among its wildlife visitors.

Full sun suits this plant, though it accepts some shade. Too much shade weakens growth, according to NC State. Good drainage matters more than a rich soil. Sandy, rocky, and well-drained loamy soils suit it. PFAF notes that fertile soil also supports growth. Established plants withstand drought, but NC State advises regular watering. The soil should dry between waterings. Chicago lists USDA zones 3–8; NC State extends this to zone 9. Stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, and seed offer ways to raise plants.

Gardeners use it in rock gardens, borders, and hanging baskets. It can trail over walls or fill gaps between stones. It also serves as groundcover where foot traffic stays light. Fast growth can crowd out young seedlings nearby. Shallow roots make unwanted growth easy to pull out. NC State flags southern blight as a disease problem. Young leaves and stems are eaten raw or cooked. PFAF warns that large amounts can upset the stomach. It records medicinal use but gives no details.