Sedum

Sedum is a genus of succulent flowering plants in the family Crassulaceae, commonly known as stonecrops. The genus comprises about 400 species, distributed across the Northern Hemisphere and in parts of Africa and Australia, with many adapted to rocky, alpine, and arid habitats. Sedums range from low-growing mats and trailing groundcovers to upright perennials. Leaves are typically thick and fleshy, enabling water storage. Flowers are usually small, star-shaped, and produced in dense cymes or panicles during summer; colors include yellow, pink, red, and white, and they are often attractive to pollinators.

Taxonomy and classification: Sedum is in Crassulaceae. The genus has undergone extensive reclassification, with many species moved to Hylotelephium, Phedimus, and Acre. In horticulture, the traditional name Sedum is still widely used for many rock-garden and ground-cover species.

Ecology and cultivation: Most sedums are drought-tolerant, preferring well-drained soil and full sun. They are popular in rock gardens, borders, stone walls, and green roofs. Propagation is by stem or leaf cuttings, division, or seeds. Some species form dense mats, others are upright. They are generally hardy, though some coastal or high-altitude species are more susceptible to cold or excessive moisture.

Notable species: Sedum acre (goldmoss stonecrop); Sedum spurium (two-row stonecrop); Sedum reflexum (blue spruce stonecrop); Sedum spectabile, now Hylotelephium spectabile (showy ice plant); Sedum telephium, now Hylotelephium telephium.