Sedum moranense is a ground covering, heather-like succulent that is well-suited for rock gardens, dry slopes, or green roofs.
The leaves are heather-like, tiny, thick and cylindrical. They are arranged in a spiral pattern which is just stunning when you observe it up close – like little pine trees.
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- In cold weather or dry conditions, the evergreen foliage turns a vibrant cherry red.
The pearl colored star-shaped flowers are minuscule, contrasting beautifully against the jet black anthers, and appear in the summer in summer.
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- The plant’s flowering cycle is triggered by winter cold.
Unlike most hardy sedums, this species has a more upright growth habit, owing to a dense mass of fine, upright, and highly branched stems.
This succulent thrives in gravelly, mineral-rich soil with excellent drainage, making it extremely hardy and resistant to winter moisture. It is adaptable to various soil pH levels and prefers full sun to partial shade. Sun exposure enhances its reddish coloration in response to cold.
👨🌾GARDENING TIPS👨🌾:
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- 🌱 Plant in spring (after the last frost) or late summer.
- 👵 As the plant matures, older stems will lose their leaves > do not worry, it will bring an even more heathery feel to the plant.
- 💡Layering Technique : it is useful to lay the longer stems on the soil directly as this will trigger the plant to produce roots at various points, encouraging a quicker assimilation into its new environment.
- 💡Propagation: Stem cuttings, planted directly into the ground from May to August (if you need a hand, just shoot us a message and we’ll show you!)
- Pair with other Sedums to create a lovely drought-resilient arrangement: Sedum pachyclados, Sedum tetragona, Sedum reflexum ‘Glaucum’
Learn more about caring for your Sedum:
The Tales & The Botany: Sedum moranense
Genus name comes from the Latin word sedeo meaning to sit in reference to the general growing habit of many of the sedums (they sit and sprawl over rocks). Living the easy life they are.
“Moranense” probably refers to its geographical origin. It seems to be derived from “Morán”, indicating a location in Mexico where the plant was first identified or is commonly found. Again, probably maybe and perhaps.
🌸 Floral Morphology: Sedum moranense
This species produces small, star-shaped flowers, typically yellow or pale yellow, which appear in terminal clusters from late spring through summer.
The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, adding ecological interest to garden spaces.
The leaves are slightly elongated and form tight rosettes, maintaining an attractive structure even when the plant is not in bloom.
🌱 Reproductive Biology
Sedum moranense reproduces both sexually through seeds and vegetatively through stem or leaf cuttings.
While its hermaphroditic flowers are insect-pollinated, vegetative propagation is commonly used to maintain uniformity in cultivated specimens.
Over time, the plant can form dense mats or clumps depending on the growing conditions.
🌍 Ecology & Adaptations
Native to dry environments, it thrives in well-drained sandy or rocky soils under full sun to partial shade.
The succulent leaves store water, helping the plant survive prolonged dry periods.
While tolerant of mild frost, excessive moisture or poorly drained soils can lead to root rot.
Its compact form and adaptability make it a versatile choice for rockeries, alpine-style plantings, xeriscaping, and container displays.
Other Names:
Red stonecrop
Origin:
Mexico and Texas
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