Sedum Autumn Joy

Sedum Autumn Joy, also known as ‘Stonecrop’ and holder of the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit, is a popular cultivar of a perennial succulent plant in the family Crassulaceae. It is native to parts of Asia and Europe but has become widely naturalised in many parts of the world due to its popularity as a garden plant.

This is a clump-forming succulent that typically grows to a height of 1 metre and a spread of 50 cm.  It features fleshy, succulent, grey-green leaves that are arranged in a rosette formation. The leaves are about 7.5-10 cm long and 2.5-5 cm wide, with rounded tips and toothed edges. The stems are sturdy, upright, and branching, with a reddish-brown colour that contrasts nicely with the foliage.

In late Summer and early Autumn, it produces large, flattened flower heads that can measure up to 20 cm in diameter. The flower heads are made up of tiny, star-shaped flowers that range in colour from pale pink to dark red. As the flowers mature, they take on a deeper, rusty hue, adding to the plant’s interest and beauty. The flower heads remain attractive well into the Winter, eventually turning a coppery brown and providing a source of winter interest in the garden.

This is a hardy plant that is tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can handle periods of dryness, making it a great choice for xeriscaping or rock gardens. It is also tolerant of poor soil conditions and air pollution, making it a good choice for urban gardens.

How to care for your Sedum Autumn Joy

• Watering: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, during prolonged dry periods, you may need to water it to keep the soil moist.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions. If you are growing it in a container, use a well-draining potting mix.
• Fertilising: This plant does not require regular fertilisation. However, you can apply a balanced fertiliser in the Spring to promote healthy growth.
• Pruning: You can pinch back the stems in the Spring to encourage bushier growth. You can also deadhead the spent flower heads to promote additional blooms.

Overall, Sedum Autumn Joy is a versatile and attractive plant that adds interest and beauty to the garden. With its low maintenance requirements and adaptability to a wide range of growing conditions, it is a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.