Sedum telephium 'Purple Emperor'
perennial

Purple Emperor Stonecrop

Sedum telephium 'Purple Emperor'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eurasia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Sedum telephium 'Purple Emperor' is a succulent perennial that features striking purple foliage and produces clusters of pink flowers in late summer. This cultivar is particularly noted for its rich purple leaf color and its ability to thrive in poor soils.

Bloom Period:

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

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesSedum Purple Emperor adds vibrant color and texture to rock gardens and groundcovers, thriving in drought-prone areas.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance reduces water needs, making it ideal for xeriscaping.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
  3. Plant in full sun for vibrant foliage and abundant blooms.
  4. Water sparingly after establishment, avoiding overwatering to prevent rot.
  5. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
  6. Divide mature plants every 2-3 years to promote healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy or gravelly soil to prevent root rot and ensure healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide full sun for optimal flowering 🌞
  • Ensure soil drains well to prevent waterlogging πŸ’§
  • Water sparingly once established, especially during dry spells
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring for vigorous growth
  • Divide plants every 2-3 years to maintain health

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
  • Refrain from fertilizing in late fall to prevent weak growth
  • Don’t disturb roots during flowering season
  • Avoid excessive pruning that can damage the plant

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged groundcover with striking foliageDrought-tolerant border plant with vibrant purple bloomsRock garden accent with low-maintenance appeal

Companion Plants

Sempervivum Lavandula Sedum acre Artemisia Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Purple Emperor Stonecrop questions

What zones can Purple Emperor Stonecrop grow in?

Purple Emperor 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 Purple Emperor Stonecrop deer resistant?

Yes β€” Purple Emperor Stonecrop is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Purple Emperor Stonecrop bloom?

Purple Emperor Stonecrop typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Purple Emperor Stonecrop need full sun?

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

Is Purple Emperor Stonecrop drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Purple Emperor 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.

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