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Description
Sedum Actinocarpum, commonly known as spreading stonecrop, is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. This low-growing perennial plant is native to North America and is found growing in rocky or sandy soils, making it an ideal plant for rock gardens and xeriscaping. Sedum Actinocarpum is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions and is an excellent choice for beginner gardeners or those looking to add low-maintenance plants to their landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Sedum |
Appearance
Sedum Actinocarpum has small, rounded leaves that are blue-green in color and can grow up to 2 inches long. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern and are often tinged with red or purple at the tips. The plant produces small, star-shaped yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are held in clusters on top of thin stems that can grow up to 6 inches tall. Sedum Actinocarpum grows in spreading mats that can reach up to 12 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
Sedum Actinocarpum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Sedum Actinocarpum is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
- Fertilization: Sedum Actinocarpum does not require fertilization, but you can feed it with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: Sedum Actinocarpum prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix or add sand or perlite to regular potting soil to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Sedum Actinocarpum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may become leggy and less compact in low light conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: Sedum Actinocarpum is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sedum Actinocarpum is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater your plant.
- Succulent mealybugs: These pests can infest the leaves and stems of Sedum Actinocarpum, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control mealybugs.
Habitat
Sedum Actinocarpum is native to North America and is found growing in rocky or sandy soils in open woodlands, prairies, and along roadsides. The plant is well-adapted to dry, sunny environments and can tolerate drought and extreme temperatures. Sedum Actinocarpum is commonly used in rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as ground cover in landscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sedum Actinocarpum a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Sedum Actinocarpum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for and is an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.
Q: Can Sedum Actinocarpum tolerate shade?
A: Sedum Actinocarpum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may become leggy and less compact in low light conditions.
Q: How often should I water Sedum Actinocarpum?
A: Sedum Actinocarpum is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Sedum Actinocarpum?
A: Sedum Actinocarpum is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Related Plants
- Sedum Acre
- Sedum Album
- Sedum Angelina
- Sedum Autumn Joy
- Sedum Dasyphyllum
References
- “Sedum Actinocarpum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c752.
- “Spreading Stonecrop (Sedum Actinocarpum).” Minnesota Wildflowers, www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/spreading-stonecrop.
- “Sedum Actinocarpum.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/sedum-actinocarpum.html.
