Sedum tetractinum 'Chinese Stonecrop'
Description: Sedum tetractinum, commonly known as 'Chinese Stonecrop,' is a low-growing succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to China and is prized for its attractive, fleshy leaves and colorful foliage. The leaves of Sedum tetractinum are small, rounded, and succulent, arranged in pairs along trailing stems. They are typically bright green in color, often tinged with red or bronze especially in cooler temperatures or under stress. During the fall season, the foliage can turn a vibrant red, adding seasonal interest to the plant.
Distribution: Sedum tetractinum is native to China, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soils. It is well adapted to dry, sunny conditions typical of its native habitats.
Care Tips:
Light:
Requirement: Full sun to partial shade.
Details: Sedum tetractinum thrives in bright light conditions. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some light shade, especially in hot climates or during the hottest part of the day.
Watering:
Requirement: Low to moderate watering.
Details: Water Sedum tetractinum sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the active growing season (spring and summer), water lightly as needed. Reduce watering in the winter months when growth slows down to prevent root rot.
Soil:
Requirement: Well-draining soil.
Details: Plant Sedum tetractinum in a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Ensure the soil provides good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Temperature:
Requirement: Moderate temperatures.
Details: Sedum tetractinum prefers temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C) during the active growing season. It can tolerate cooler temperatures but should be protected from frost and freezing conditions.
Humidity:
Requirement: Low humidity.
Details: Sedum tetractinum thrives in dry, low-humidity conditions. 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 tetractinum 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 tetractinum 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 tetractinum 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 tetractinum 'Chinese Stonecrop,' appreciating its low-maintenance nature and colorful foliage in your garden, rockeries, or as a charming ground cover.