groundcover

Poplar-leaved Stonecrop

Sedum populifolium

The Story

Plant Bio

Sedum populifolium is a low-growing, succulent perennial with fleshy, rounded leaves that resemble small poplar leaves, forming dense mats and producing clusters of star-shaped, yellow flowers in summer.

This species is prized for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, rocky soils, making it an excellent ground cover for sunny, well-drained locations.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant yellow foliage and late summer flowers, perfect for groundcover and rock gardens.

Requires minimal watering and maintenance, ideal for drought-prone areas.

Supports insect life with nectar and provides habitat for beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

15 inches

Width

15 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Siberia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Water lightly until roots establish, about 2 weeks.
Place in full sun for best color and growth.
Avoid overwatering; let soil dry between watering.
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Fertilize sparingly with cactus or succulent fertilizer once a year.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly during drought periods 🌱
Provide full sun for vibrant foliage
Use well-draining soil to prevent rot

Don't

Overwater regularly ❌
Plant in heavy clay soil without amendment ❌
Expose to excessive humidity ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged groundcoverRock garden borderDrought-tolerant slope

Companion Plants

Agave SempervivumLavender Sedum acre Echeveria

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Poplar-leaved Stonecrop questions

What zones can Poplar-leaved Stonecrop grow in?

Poplar-leaved Stonecrop is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Poplar-leaved Stonecrop deer resistant?

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

When does Poplar-leaved Stonecrop bloom?

Poplar-leaved 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 Poplar-leaved Stonecrop need full sun?

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

Is Poplar-leaved Stonecrop drought tolerant?

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