perennial

Sunset Cloud Stonecrop

Sedum telephium 'Sunset Cloud'

Same species

Species

Sedum telephiumOrpine

5 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

20 inches

Width

20 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eurasia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Hylotelephium telephium is an upright, clump-forming succulent perennial. It features fleshy, alternate, simple leaves and dense, terminal clusters (cymes) of small, star-shaped flowers that bloom from late summer to fall. This cultivar is noted for its sturdy, upright habit, gray-green foliage, and large, bright rosy-pink flower heads that appear in late summer and persist into fall, providing excellent late-season color.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright pink foliage and late-season blooms make Sunset Cloud a striking garden feature.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat for beneficial insects and attracts pollinators.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
  2. Water sparingly until established, about 2 weeks.
  3. Place in full sun for best color and growth.
  4. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
  5. Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Divide every 2-3 years in early spring for propagation.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil drains well to prevent overwatering and root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water sparingly during drought conditions 🌱
  • Apply well-draining soil to prevent rot
  • Place in full sun for optimal color
  • Divide in early spring for propagation
  • Mulch lightly to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Overwater regularly ❌
  • Plant in heavy clay soil without amendment ❌
  • Keep in shade for best results ❌
  • Use chemical fertilizers excessively ❌
  • Neglect pruning to maintain shape ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Fertilize
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged groundcoverColorful border in sunny beds

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum acre Echinacea Thyme Russian sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sunset Cloud Stonecrop questions

What zones can Sunset Cloud Stonecrop grow in?

Sunset Cloud Stonecrop is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sunset Cloud Stonecrop deer resistant?

Yes — Sunset Cloud Stonecrop is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sunset Cloud Stonecrop bloom?

Sunset Cloud Stonecrop typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Sunset Cloud Stonecrop need full sun?

Sunset Cloud Stonecrop does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Sunset Cloud Stonecrop drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sunset Cloud Stonecrop handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Sunset Cloud Stonecrop with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.