perennial

Karfunkelstein Stonecrop

Sedum telephium 'Karfunkelstein'

The Story

Plant Bio

Sedum telephium 'Karfunkelstein' is a hardy perennial known for its thick, fleshy leaves and clusters of vibrant red flowers.

This cultivar is particularly noted for its deep red flower color and compact growth habit, making it a standout in the garden.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesKarfunkelstein Sedum adds architectural interest with its dark green, succulent foliage and late summer flowers, perfect for sunny borders.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance makes it ideal for water-wise gardens and groundcover applications.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat and nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
SpeciesSedum telephiumOrpine

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Native to Eurasia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck cuttings into well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for 2-3 weeks.
  3. Place in full sun for optimal growth and color development.
  4. Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry between watering.
  5. Apply a balanced cactus fertilizer during the growing season.
  6. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to rejuvenate.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide full sun for vibrant foliage and flowers 🌞
  • Ensure soil drains well to prevent waterlogging 💧
  • Fertilize lightly during active growth months

Don't

  • Don't overwater, especially in winter ❌
  • Avoid heavy, clay soils that retain moisture
  • Refrain from excessive fertilizing which can cause legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Pinch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged succulent borderRock garden accentDrought-tolerant groundcover

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Karfunkelstein Stonecrop questions

What zones can Karfunkelstein Stonecrop grow in?

Karfunkelstein 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 Karfunkelstein Stonecrop deer resistant?

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

When does Karfunkelstein Stonecrop bloom?

Karfunkelstein 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 Karfunkelstein Stonecrop need full sun?

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

Is Karfunkelstein Stonecrop drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Karfunkelstein 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.