Sedum lineare, commonly known as Needle Stonecrop, Needle Stonecrop, or Carpet Sedum, is a fast-growing, mat-forming succulent native to China and Japan. This low-maintenance, sun-loving evergreen thrives in conditions where many other plants struggle. It is recommended for greening flat-roofed buildings in Shanghai, China, because it tolerates cold and drought, requires little soil, and has a non-invasive root system.
Taxonomy of Sedum lineare
Scientific Name
Sedum lineare Thunb.
Synonym(s)
Sedum anhuiense
Common Name(s)
Carpet Sedum, Linear Stonecrop Herb, Needle Stonecrop, Stonecrop
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Genus: Sedum
Etymology
The generic name "Sedum" (pronounced "SEE-dum") means "sitting" or "low-growing" and refers to the low-growing habit of the plants of this genus, which appear to "sit" and spread over rocks, slopes, and ground surfaces.
The specific epithet "lineare" (pronounced "her-SOO-tum") means "linear; line-like" and refers to the shape of the leaves of this species.
Description
Sedum lineare is a mat-forming succulent with very slender, branching stems and light green or pale greenish-yellow leaves arranged in whorls of three or four. The fleshy stems can either be ascending or decumbent and can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) long. The leaves are succulent, linear to narrowly lance-shaped, and can measure up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long and 0.08 inches (0.2 cm) wide.
From late spring to early summer, Sedum lineare produces yellow, star-shaped flowers with five petals. The inflorescences are lax, few- to many-flowered cymes of 1 to 3, sometimes forked, cincinni.
Origin
Sedum lineare is native to southeastern China and Japan. It grows in low mountains, on rocks and grassy slopes.
Cultivars of Sedum lineare
How to Grow and Care for Sedum lineare
Light: Sufficient light is essential for a healthy plant. Sedum lineare grows best in full sun for at least 6 hours a day, but tolerates some shade. Place the plant near a sunny window or use artificial lights when growing indoors.
Soil: This plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Use a commercially available succulent mix, or create your own.
Temperature: Sedum lineare tolerates heat and low temperatures. It is hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 7a-11b, which have average annual extreme minimum winter temperatures ranging from 0°F to 50°F (-17.8°C to 10°C).
Watering: From spring to fall, water thoroughly and let the soil dry out before watering again. During the winter, water the plant just enough to keep it from shriveling. When watering, avoid getting the leaves, stems, and flowers wet.
Fertilizing: Feed a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength during the growing season. However, feeding is unnecessary if you provide the plant with fresh soil annually.
Repotting: When Sedum lineare outgrows its current pot, repot it into a larger pot in spring. Make sure the soil is dry before you begin repotting.
Propagation: It is easy to propagate Sedum lineare by taking leaf or stem cuttings during the growing season or by sowing seeds in spring or summer.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Sedum.
Toxicity of Sedum lineare
Sedum lineare is not listed as toxic to people, but it can be mildly toxic to pets and children.
Photo Gallery
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Sedum.
- Explore all plants within the family Crassulaceae.