perennial

Firestorm Stonecrop

Sedum spectabile 'Firestorm'

The Story

Plant Bio

A low-growing, mat-forming succulent perennial, a cultivar of two-row stonecrop. Valued for its colorful foliage.

Features fleshy, variegated leaves of green, cream, and pink. The pink and red tones intensify in full sun and cooler weather. Produces clusters of pink, star-shaped flowers in summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesSedum spectabile Firestorm offers striking red foliage and late-season pink flowers, adding vibrant color to garden beds and containers.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance makes it ideal for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.
SpeciesSedum spectabileShowy Stonecrop

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

6 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Caucasus

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for 2-3 weeks.
  3. Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry between watering.
  4. Place in full sun for optimal color and growth.
  5. Fertilize lightly in spring with cactus or succulent fertilizer.
  6. Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use sandy or gritty soil to prevent rot and promote healthy root development.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide full sun for vibrant foliage and flowers 🌞
  • Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot ❌
  • Water sparingly, especially during winter 🌱
  • Fertilize lightly in spring with a succulent fertilizer
  • Remove dead or faded stems to encourage new growth

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering; succulents dislike soggy soil ❌
  • Don’t expose to prolonged shade; it dulls colors
  • Refrain from heavy fertilizing in late fall ❌
  • Don’t disturb roots unnecessarily
  • Avoid planting in dense clay soil without amendments

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Succulent rock garden with vibrant color accentsDrought-tolerant border with silver-foliaged plantsVanilla-scented succulent container display

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Firestorm Stonecrop questions

What zones can Firestorm Stonecrop grow in?

Firestorm 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 Firestorm Stonecrop deer resistant?

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

When does Firestorm Stonecrop bloom?

Firestorm 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 Firestorm Stonecrop need full sun?

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

Is Firestorm Stonecrop drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Firestorm 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.