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Description
Sedum Alpestre, also known as Alpine Stonecrop, is a hardy succulent native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It is a low-growing perennial plant that thrives in alpine environments, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, and container plantings. The plant features fleshy, evergreen leaves that form a dense mat and produce small, star-shaped flowers in late summer to early fall. Sedum Alpestre is a popular choice for gardeners due to its attractive appearance and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Sedum |
Appearance
Sedum Alpestre is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 4-6 inches and a spread of 12-18 inches. The plant features fleshy, evergreen leaves that are lance-shaped and up to 1 inch long. The leaves are a gray-green color and form a dense mat that hugs the ground. In late summer to early fall, Sedum Alpestre produces small, star-shaped flowers that are yellow or white in color. The flowers are held on upright stems that rise above the foliage, creating a striking contrast. Sedum Alpestre is an attractive plant that adds color and texture to any garden.
Care Guide
Sedum Alpestre is a hardy plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for keeping your Sedum Alpestre healthy:Water: Sedum Alpestre is drought-tolerant and prefers well-draining soil. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.Fertilization: Sedum Alpestre does not require fertilizer. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote growth.Soil: Sedum Alpestre prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.Sunlight: Sedum Alpestre thrives in full sun to partial shade. However, it will produce more flowers in full sun.Hardiness Zones: Sedum Alpestre is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sedum Alpestre is generally pest and disease-free. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill your plant. Make sure to water sparingly and ensure proper drainage.Leaf Spot: Fungal diseases can cause leaf spot, which appears as brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and ensure good air circulation to prevent the spread of disease.Aphids: Aphids can infest Sedum Alpestre, causing distorted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
Habitat
Sedum Alpestre is native to alpine regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. It grows in rocky, well-draining soil in high elevations. Sedum Alpestre is well-suited for rock gardens and alpine gardens, as well as container plantings.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sedum Alpestre tolerate hot temperatures?
A: Yes, Sedum Alpestre is heat-tolerant and can thrive in hot, dry climates.Q: How do I propagate Sedum Alpestre?
A: Sedum Alpestre can be propagated by division or stem cuttings. Divide the plant in spring or take stem cuttings in summer.Q: Is Sedum Alpestre deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Sedum Alpestre is deer-resistant and can be planted in areas with deer.Q: Can Sedum Alpestre be grown indoors?
A: Sedum Alpestre is not well-suited for indoor growing and prefers outdoor conditions.
Related Plants
If you like Sedum Alpestre, you may also enjoy these related plants:
- Sedum Kamtschaticum
- Sedum Spurium
- Sedum Reflexum
- Sedum Rupestre
References
- “Sedum Alpestre.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282400&isprofile=0&basic=Sedum%20Alpestre
- “Sedum Alpestre.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14451/Sedum-alpestre/Details
- “Sedum Alpestre.” Plantwise Knowledge Bank. https://www.plantwise.org/KnowledgeBank/Datasheet.aspx?dsid=44430
