How to identify Sedums (Hylotelephium)

How to identify Sedums (Hylotelephium)

Sedums, also known as Stonecrops

Sedums display fleshy, water-storing leaves, often arranged in spiraling rosettes. These perennial succulents possess upright to sprawling stems, with heights reaching 1-3 feet (30-90 cm) tall. Their leaves may exhibit a range of colors from green to bluish-grey or purple, sometimes with a waxy or powdery coating. From late summer to fall, sedums produce clusters of tiny, star-shaped flowers atop their stalks. The flower hues vary across species, including shades of pink, red, yellow, or white.

Lifespan: Perennial

Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify Sedums

Rosettes of fleshy leaves with waxy coating, in shades of green, bluish-grey, or purple.

Clusters of tiny, star-shaped flowers in pink, red, yellow, or white, atop stalks.

Small, dry capsules with dust-like seeds, persisting through winter in tan to brown hues.

Sessile, succulent leaves with oval to oblong shapes, measuring 1-3 inches long.

Smooth leaf surface with visible vein pattern, enhancing thickness and water storage.

Detailed Traits of Sedums

Leaf Features

The leaves of sedums are sessile and succulent, characterized by a waxy bloom that enhances their protective outer layer. These leaves vary in color depending on the specific species and cultivar, ranging from green to shades of red or purple. They are typically oval or oblong, measuring approximately 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) long and 0.5-1.5 inches (1.3-3.8 cm) wide. The surface is smooth and fleshy, with a faintly visible vein pattern that underscores their thickness.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of sedums are arranged in cymes, presenting small, star-shaped blooms that range from pink to reddish hues. Each flower typically spans about 0.4 inches (1 cm) across, with delicate petals that create a vibrant star-like pattern. They may emit a subtle, pleasant fragrance, enhancing their appeal. These blossoms are a noteworthy feature during their blooming season, which occurs in the summer or fall, adding a splash of color to the landscape.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of sedums manifests as small, dry, dehiscent capsules. Each contains multiple tiny, dust-like seeds favored for propagation. Upon reaching maturity, the capsules exhibit a faded, tan to brown hue, contrasting with winter's palette. Typically, these capsules measure a mere fraction of an inch (a few millimeters) and feature a finely textured surface. Notably, the fruits persist through winter, providing a distinct visual interest in barren landscapes. The fruit structure aids in seed dispersal, utilizing the wind's force in the release of their seed cargo.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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