Origin
Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen is a species of flowering plant which belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States, specifically the states of Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as Leedy's Stonecrop or Entire-leaf Stonecrop. It earned the name Leedy's Stonecrop in honor of the late Harry P. Leedy who was a botanist and professor at Western Carolina University.
Uses
Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen is mostly used for ornamental purposes as an attractive groundcover. The plant has a low-growing and spreading habit, making it ideal for rock gardens, borders, and even container planting. Its seed heads also add winter interest to landscapes.
General Appearance
The plant has fleshy, succulent leaves that are yellow-green in color. These leaves are evergreen, meaning they remain on the plant year-round. They are smooth-edged and arranged in a basal rosette pattern. Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen produces stems that are 6-8 inches tall with small, star-shaped, yellow flowers that bloom in the summer season. The flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Light Requirements
The Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen plant prefers full sun and grows well in a spot where it receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. If planted in a location with insufficient sunlight, the plant may become leggy and pale, and the flowering may be limited.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in dry, hot conditions and is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers moderate temperatures, with daytime temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures ranging from 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. In areas with extremely high temperatures, the plant should be provided with some shade to prevent it from becoming stressed.
Soil Requirements
The Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen plant prefers well-draining, sandy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The soil should be gritty, with pebble-sized particles to promote proper drainage. The plant can tolerate dry soil and is drought-tolerant, but it should be watered regularly during the first year after planting to develop a strong root system. After that, it does well with minimal watering.
Cultivation methods
Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen is a succulent plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. It prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from hot and dry to mild or cold, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor gardening.
The plant is propagated by seeds, stem cuttings, or division of mature plants. Seeds can be sown during the spring or fall, while stem cuttings and division can be done year-round.
Watering needs
Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen is drought-tolerant and can survive prolonged periods of dryness. However, the plant still requires regular watering to thrive. Water the plant when the soil becomes dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. During hot and dry weather, you may need to water the plant more frequently to prevent dehydration.
Fertilization
Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen does not require much fertilization, and overfertilizing can lead to excessive growth and reduced overall hardiness. Apply a balanced fertilizer once every two to three months during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormant period (fall and winter).
Pruning
Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen does not require much pruning, but removing dead or damaged leaves, flowers, and stems can help improve the plant's appearance and overall health. Prune during the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Use sterile pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease, and avoid cutting too much of the plant as this can weaken it.
Propagation of Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen
Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen, commonly known as Leedy's stonecrop, is a drought-tolerant perennial plant that is native to North America. It is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and groundcovers due to its attractive, succulent foliage and delicate flowers. There are several propagation methods that can be used to increase the number of Sedum integrifolium plants.
Division
Division is the easiest and most common method of propagating Sedum integrifolium. It involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them in new locations. Division is best done in the spring or fall, when the plant is not actively growing. To divide the plant, dig it up carefully and gently tease the roots apart. Each divided section should have a few healthy stems and roots. Replant the sections immediately in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are another option for propagating Sedum integrifolium. Choose a healthy, mature leaf from the plant and remove it using a sharp, clean pair of scissors. Make sure the leaf has a stem attached. Plant the stem in a well-draining potting mix and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist and the cutting should develop roots and begin to grow within a few weeks.
Seed Propagation
Sedum integrifolium can also be propagated from seed, although this method is not as reliable as division or cuttings. Collect seeds from the plant after it has finished blooming and allow them to dry completely. Plant the seeds in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge. Seedlings should be transplanted to their final locations once they have developed their second set of true leaves.
Regardless of which propagation method you choose, it is important to provide your Sedum integrifolium with well-draining soil, plenty of sunlight, and occasional watering. With proper care, your propagated plants should thrive and provide years of beauty to your garden.
Disease Management
Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen is a relatively low maintenance plant that is generally not susceptible to many diseases. However, some diseases that can affect this plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that can cause circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove any infected leaves and ensure that the plant has adequate air circulation to promote drying of the leaves.
- Powdery Mildew: A common fungal disease characterized by the presence of a powdery white substance on the leaves. To manage this disease, avoid overhead watering, as this can promote the growth of fungal spores. Prune any infected leaves and ensure that the plant has adequate air circulation to promote drying of the leaves.
Pest Management
While Sedum integrifolium (Raf.) A. Nels. ssp. leedyi (Rosendahl & Moore) Clausen is not generally susceptible to many pests, some common pests that might affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These small insects can feed on the sap of the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage an aphid infestation, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the insects. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control an aphid infestation.
- Scale: These small, oval insects can also feed on the sap of the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves. To manage a scale infestation, you can remove any infected leaves and treat the plant with horticultural oil or neem oil.
