groundcover

Stringy Stonecrop

Sedum sarmentosum

The Story

Plant Bio

Sedum sarmentosum, commonly known as stringy stonecrop, is a low-growing, mat-forming evergreen succulent native to East and Southeast Asia. The plant spreads via slender, creeping stems that root at the nodes, bearing fleshy, bright yellow-green leaves arranged in whorls of three.

In late spring and summer, the foliage is topped by small, star-shaped yellow flowers held in loose, one-sided clusters. The leaves frequently develop reddish margins when exposed to intense sunlight or cold temperatures.

Uses & Benefits:

Forms a dense, bright chartreuse evergreen carpet that brightens rockeries and path borders, topped with starry yellow flowers in summer.

Functions as an exceptionally low-maintenance, drought-tolerant groundcover that suppresses weeds once established.

Provides nectar for bees and small generalist butterflies, though it does not attract hummingbirds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

12"

Width

40"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia, Southeast Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Summer

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with exceptionally well-drained, sandy, or rocky soil.
Clear the area of weeds, ensuring no grass or aggressive weeds remain to grow through the low mat.
Press stem cuttings or plugs into the soil surface, spacing them twelve to eighteen inches apart.
Water lightly to settle the soil, then withhold water unless the soil dries out completely during prolonged dry spells.

Pro Tip

Never apply fertilizer or plant in rich soil, as excess nutrients trigger weak, lanky growth and reduce the plant's natural cold and drought tolerance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Grow in poor, sharply drained mineral soils to maintain a compact, tight growth habit.
Ensure the planting site has excellent air circulation to prevent fungal foliage diseases.
Clear away dead leaves and debris from the mat in early spring to maintain sanitation.

Don't

Do not overwater or plant in heavy clay soils, which causes rapid root and basal rot.
Do not fertilize, as excess nutrients cause weak, lanky stems that easily collapse.
Do not prune hard into old, leafless woody stems, as they fail to regenerate new growth.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Rock gardensGroundcover for dry slopesCrevice filler in stone pathsContainer plantings and hanging bowls

Companion Plants

Sempervivum tectorum Phlox stolonifera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Stringy Stonecrop questions

What zones can Stringy Stonecrop grow in?

Stringy 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 Stringy Stonecrop deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Stringy Stonecrop, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Stringy Stonecrop bloom?

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

Does Stringy Stonecrop need full sun?

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

Is Stringy Stonecrop drought tolerant?

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