Sedum lineare (Needle Stonecrop)

Sedum lineare (Needle Stonecrop) is an evergreen, ornamental, mat-forming succulent plant with bushy and semi-trailing stems up to 15 cm long. The new growth on this plant is often upright and then lies down under the weight of the stems and in shade, it tends to grow slightly more open and taller. The leaves are succulent, light green or pale greenish yellow, up to 2.5 cm long. It is in flower from Jul to August. The blooms are star-shaped, yellow and up to 2 cm wide.

Scientific Classification:

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

Scientific Name: Sedum lineare Thunb.
Synonyms: Sedum anhuiense, Sedum subtile
Common Names: Needle Stonecrop, Carpet Sedum, Linear Stonecrop Herb, Stonecrop

How to care and grow Sedum lineare (Needle 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 per-lite 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 lineare 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:

Sedum lineare can be easily propagated by stem and leaf 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. Or Cut off leaves from the stem, let them dry, and then place the cutting into the soil. 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. Re-potting is best done during spring.

Pests and Diseases:

Needle Stone crop 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.