Sedum spectabile Carmen - Autumn Stonecrop

Sedum spectabile 'Carmen', or autumn stonecrop, is a very accommodating succulent plant. It has beautiful tender green to glaucous green foliage, and an abundant and dense dark pink to reddish purple flowering during autumn. It will be the perfect companion for dahlias and wormwoods.

Sedum spectabile, native to northeastern China, has been used in gardens for a long time and has been continuously improved by professionals. 'Carmen' is a perennial plant that grows in clumps of erect stems, reaching up to 50cm (20in) in height and 40cm (16in) in width. As part of the larger stonecrop family, its upright green stems bear deciduous, pedunculated, thick and fleshy leaves arranged in an opposite manner. The jade green leaves have an oval-oblong shape, and undulate and serrate margins. It has a late flowering period from August to October, composed of densely packed clusters of small dark pink to purple-red flowers. These corymbs (clusters) at the tops of the stems will completely cover the plant, creating a purple-red carpet.

It is easy to cultivate and has very good hardiness (-20°C (-4°F)). However, it is sensitive to wet soils during the winter period. It prefers sunny exposures, but also adapts to Mediterranean or dry climates, with partial shade exposure during part of the day. It likes well-drained, dry to moist, slightly alkaline or acidic soils. It can be used in compositions with wormwoods, dahlias, or hebes, as well as in mixed borders with grasses like stipas or fescues.

It is recommended to divide the plant every 3 to 4 years, during spring or after flowering, to give it vitality and prevent the disappearance of central stems. You can also propagate the plant by cuttings. It seems that deer like to feed on stonecrops, so be careful if you live in a sensitive area.

Anecdote: Stonecrops were once used as medicinal plants for the treatment of burns, cuts, and haemorrhages.