Sedum caeruleum (Azure Stonecrop) – Succulent plants

Sedum caeruleum (Azure Stonecrop) is an attractive, perennial succulent, bushy herb, simple or much branched from the base, erect, up to 15 cm (6 inches) tall. The leaves are green, narrowly oblong and usually tinted red, up to 1 inch long. It produces cymes of pale blue or white (rarely pinkish), many-stellate flowers from July to September.

Scientific Classification:

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Subtribe: Sedinae
Genus: Sedum

Scientific Name: Sedum caeruleum
Synonyms: Anacampseros caerulescens, Oreosedum caeruleum, Sedum azureum, Sedum coeruleum, Sedum heptapetalum.
Common Names: Azure Stonecrop, Blue Stonecrop, Sky Stone Crop, Baby-blue Stone Crop, Red Leaf, Barbary Stones.

How to grow and maintain Sedum caeruleum (Azure Stonecrop):

Light:
It requires full sun to light shade. Two to four hours of afternoon sunlight is best for the plant. South-facing windows are ideal or west, north-facing will not encourage growth.

Soil:
It grows best in Well-draining soil. Use 2 parts potting soil, 2 parts coarse sand, 2 parts peat and 1 part perlite or crushed charcoal.

Temperature:
It Prefers ideal temperature between 65°F – 75°F / 18°C – 25°C during summer. Temperature no lower than 50 °F – 55°F / 10°F – 12.7°C is best. It does best in hotter conditions. Try not to keep the plant outside in freezing temperatures.

Water:
Sedum plant needs more water in the spring and summer, but you can allow the topsoil to become slightly dry between each watering. During the winter season, reduce watering.

Fertilizer:
Fertilize once a month with a diluted liquid fertilizer or use a slow-releasing nitrogen-based fertilizer, during the spring and summer season.

Propagation:
It can be easily propagated by stem cuttings. you can break off one of the stems and push it into the ground where you would like to grow it. The stem will root very easily. Keep the potting soil moist until the cutting begins to grow.

Re-Potting:
Re-pot your plant every year or every two years. As the plant grows, you should move it to a wider pot so the new stems and roots have enough room to develop. Repotting is best done during spring.

Pests and Diseases:
Sedum plant has is no serious pests or diseases issues. Watch for aphids and flies. You can dispose of them by spraying insecticidal soap or neem oil over the foliage.