Scientific Name
Sedum diffusum S.Watson
Common Name(s)
Diffuse Stonecrop
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Genus: Sedum
Etymology
The specific epithet "diffusum (dy-FEW-sum)" means "diffused, spread" and refers to the growth habit of this species.
Origin
Sedum diffusum is native to Mexico. It occurs in Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, San Luis Potosi and Hidalgo.
Description
Sedum diffusum is a mat-forming succulent with fleshy, widely branching rootstock and short stems with slender, green to pink branches that bear glaucous blue leaves. It is more compact than Sedum diffusum 'Potosinum' and can grow up to 7 inches (17.5 cm) tall. The leaves can measure up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) long and 0.12 inches (0.3 cm) in diameter. The old leaves turn pinkish, then ashy white.
The white star-shaped flowers appear on scorpioid branches in summer.
How to Grow and Care for Sedum diffusum
Light: These succulents grow best in locations where they will enjoy the full sun for at least six hours daily. Most species will tolerate partial shade but will not thrive in deep shade.
Soil: Sedums do not like to sit in waterlogged soil, so drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Choose a gritty, well-draining soil.
Hardiness: Sedum diffusum can withstand temperatures as low as 0 to 30 °F (-17.8 to -1.1 °C), USDA hardiness zones 7a to 9b.
Watering: Sedum plants are drought-tolerant but do need some water. They do their best with regular watering from spring through fall. Water thoroughly and wait for the soil to dry out before watering again.
Fertilizing: A balanced organic fertilizer each spring is generally all Sedums require. Feeding is unnecessary as long as the plants are divided annually and provided with fresh soil.
Repotting: Sedums in containers require little more care than those in gardens. Repot your plants when they outgrow their current pot by moving them to a larger container to hold the plant better.
Propagation: Once you have one Sedum, it is easy to make more taking stems or leaf cuttings and dividing the plant. Sedums are also easy to grow from seed.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Sedum.
Toxicity of Sedum diffusum
Sedums are not listed as toxic for people but can be mildly toxic to pets and children.
Links
- Back to genus Sedum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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