Sedum makinoi 'Ogon' (Japanese Gold)
Description: Sedum makinoi 'Ogon,' commonly known as 'Japanese Gold,' is a low-growing succulent plant prized for its vibrant, golden-yellow foliage. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family and is native to Japan. The leaves of Sedum makinoi 'Ogon' are small, rounded, and tightly packed along trailing stems, creating a dense mat of foliage. The bright yellow coloration intensifies with exposure to sunlight, making it an attractive ground cover or container plant. During the summer, it may produce tiny clusters of white to pale pink star-shaped flowers, adding to its ornamental appeal.
Care Tips:
Light:
Requirement: Full sun to partial shade.
Details: Sedum makinoi 'Ogon' thrives in bright light conditions. Provide it with direct morning sunlight or filtered light throughout the day. In hotter climates, provide some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorching.
Watering:
Requirement: Moderate watering.
Details: Water Sedum makinoi 'Ogon' regularly during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in the winter months when growth slows down. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Soil:
Requirement: Well-draining soil.
Details: Plant Sedum makinoi 'Ogon' in a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Ensure the soil provides good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions, which can be detrimental to the plant's health.
Temperature:
Requirement: Moderate temperatures.
Details: Sedum makinoi 'Ogon' prefers temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) during the growing season. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but should be protected from frost and freezing conditions.
Humidity:
Requirement: Low to moderate humidity.
Details: Sedum makinoi 'Ogon' thrives in average indoor humidity levels. It does not require additional humidity and prefers good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal issues.
Fertilizing:
Requirement: Minimal fertilization.
Details: Fertilize Sedum makinoi 'Ogon' sparingly with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Repotting:
Requirement: Infrequent repotting.
Details: Repot Sedum makinoi 'Ogon' every 2-3 years or when it has outgrown its container. Use a slightly larger pot with adequate drainage holes to accommodate its spreading growth habit.
Propagation:
Requirement: Stem cuttings or division.
Details: Propagate Sedum makinoi 'Ogon' from stem cuttings by snipping off healthy stems and allowing the cut ends to callous for a few days before planting them in a well-draining potting mix. Alternatively, divide the plant carefully into smaller clumps and replant them in separate containers.
By following these care guidelines, you can successfully cultivate Sedum makinoi 'Ogon' (Japanese Gold), enjoying its vibrant yellow foliage and low-maintenance growth in your garden, rockeries, or as a charming ground cover.