Species

Sedum albumWhite Stonecrop

5 other cultivars

perennial

Desert Red Stonecrop

Sedum album 'Desert Red'

The Story

Plant Bio

Sedum album 'Desert Red' is a succulent perennial known for its vibrant red foliage and clusters of small star-shaped flowers in late summer.

This cultivar is particularly valued for its drought tolerance and striking color during the dry season.

Uses & Benefits:

Sedum album Desert Red adds striking color and texture to rock gardens and borders, thriving in drought conditions.

Its drought tolerance reduces water needs, making it an eco-friendly groundcover.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and sustains dry, sunny environments.

SpeciesSedum albumWhite Stonecrop

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

4 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, North Africa, West Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings lightly and keep soil dry between waterings during propagation.
Allow soil to dry completely before watering again to prevent root rot.
Transplant established plants in late spring or early fall to optimize growth.
Apply a layer of gravel or sand as mulch to improve drainage and prevent weeds.
Monitor for pests and diseases regularly, addressing issues promptly.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy soil and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly, especially during winter months 🌱
Provide full sun for vibrant color and healthy growth
Use cactus or succulent fertilizer during active growing season
Remove dead or damaged leaves to promote new growth
Mulch lightly to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature

Don't

Don’t overwater; succulents prefer dry conditions ❌
Avoid planting in heavy clay soil that retains moisture
Don’t expose to prolonged frost without protection
Refrain from fertilizing during dormancy
Don’t disturb roots unnecessarily during transplanting

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged groundcover for rock gardensDrought-tolerant border with vibrant red accentsContainer plant for sunny patios

Companion Plants

AgaveLavender Sempervivum Echinacea Sedum spurium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Desert Red Stonecrop questions

What zones can Desert Red Stonecrop grow in?

Desert Red 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 Desert Red Stonecrop deer resistant?

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

When does Desert Red Stonecrop bloom?

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

Does Desert Red Stonecrop need full sun?

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

Is Desert Red Stonecrop drought tolerant?

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