Contents
Description
Sedum Rubens, also known as Stonecrop, is a low-growing succulent that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in rocky areas, cliffs, and dry slopes. This hardy plant features greenish-gray foliage that turns reddish in the fall. It produces small pink flowers in the summer, which attract bees and butterflies. Sedum Rubens is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and groundcovers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Sedum |
Appearance
Sedum Rubens is a low-growing succulent that can reach up to 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) tall and 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) wide. It has thick and fleshy leaves that are oval-shaped and measure about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long. The leaves are greenish-gray in color and turn reddish in the fall. The plant produces small pink flowers that grow in clusters and bloom in the summer. The flowers are about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) in diameter and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Sedum Rubens is a low-maintenance succulent that is easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Sedum Rubens is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. It is important to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases.- Fertilization: Sedum Rubens does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote growth and flowering.- Soil: Sedum Rubens prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or gritty. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and is resistant to salt spray.- Sunlight: Sedum Rubens prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate hot and dry conditions and is cold hardy up to USDA zone 4.- Hardiness Zones: Sedum Rubens is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sedum Rubens is a hardy plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, here are some common problems to watch out for:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and die. You can control aphids by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap.- Mealybugs: These white insects can also suck the sap from the plant and cause it to become weak and stunted. You can control mealybugs by wiping the plant with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.- Root Rot: This fungal disease can occur when the soil is too wet and the roots are unable to get enough oxygen. You can prevent root rot by avoiding overwatering and providing well-draining soil.
Habitat
Sedum Rubens is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in rocky areas, cliffs, and dry slopes. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and is resistant to salt spray. This hardy plant is well-suited for rock gardens, borders, and groundcovers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sedum Rubens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Sedum Rubens can be grown indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights.
Q: How often should I water Sedum Rubens?
A: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Depending on the temperature and humidity, this may be once a week or once a month.
Q: Does Sedum Rubens attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the small pink flowers of Sedum Rubens attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How tall does Sedum Rubens grow?
A: Sedum Rubens can reach up to 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) tall and 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) wide.
Related Plants
– Sedum spurium (Two-row Stonecrop)
– Sedum acre (Goldmoss Stonecrop)
– Sedum reflexum (Blue Spruce Stonecrop)
– Sedum spectabile (Showy Stonecrop)
References
– “Sedum Rubens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281530.
– “Sedum Rubens.” Gardenia.net. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/sedum-rubens-stonecrop.
