Superb Sedum - Large Leaf

Superb Sedum – Large Leaf 

Sedums range in habit from mat forming ground covers to upright mounding clumps or bushes.  The large-leafed varieties discussed here have upright standing stems that are covered with rosettes of thick, fleshy foliage. The stems are topped with large domes of star shaped flowers up to 4” wide. The flower color will typically change throughout their bloom cycle, which is from late spring to early fall. The seed pods, that form following bloom, add an additional layer of interest into the fall. 

They are commonly called Stonecrop and are deciduous to evergreen in mild winter areas.  They are great as a border, massed or as a companion plant and good in either the ground or containers.  Blooming sedum are attractive to bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. 

They like well-drained soil and full sun to part shade.  They tolerate heat and drought but prefer some summer water.  They are known to be both deer and rabbit resistant.  To control height and shape, pinch back to half in mid-summer.   Prune to the ground in early spring as new growth comes from the ground.  The spent flower head dries and turns tan and can add some interest to a winter garden.  They can be attractive to snails and slugs.  There are approximately 400 species discovered in North America.   

Sedum spectabile ‘Autumn Joy’

18” x 24” Light green foliage with flat heads of rosy red flowers in early fall August to November.  The buds open delicate light pink and mature to deep bronze red in fall. 

Sedum ‘Blue Pearl’

6” x 18-20” Intense purplish-blue foliage on dark red stems with hot pink flowers in late summer to fall. 

Sedum ‘Night Light’

2’ x 3’ Thick, shiny, dark olive-green foliage on dark purple with clusters of light yellow flowers in late spring changing to blushing pink blooming late summer to early fall.