Overview
Sedum purpureum (L.) J.A. Schultes or Purple Stonecrop is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. It is an ornamental plant that is native to Europe, and now cultivated and naturalized in other parts of the world as well.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known by several names including Purple Stonecrop, Purple Jelly Beans, Purple Pilgrim, and Live-forever.
Appearance
Sedum purpureum is a succulent plant that can grow up to 20 cm in height. Its leaves are oblong, fleshy, and purplish in color, arranged in a rosette fashion. The plant produces bright yellow star-shaped flowers that bloom in summer, and the flowers are held in clusters at the top of the stems.
Uses
Sedum purpureum is grown as an ornamental plant because of its colorful foliage and attractive flowers that make it a popular choice for rock gardens and container gardens. It also produces edible leaves that are used in salads, and the plant has medicinal properties that have been used to treat wounds, burns, and other ailments.
Light Requirements
Sedum purpureum typically prefers bright to moderate sunlight. It thrives best when placed in a location that receives six hours of direct sunlight. However, it can still survive and grow in areas with less than six hours of direct sunlight but may grow at a slower pace. Too much shade can cause the plant to stretch and become leggy, while too much sun may cause the leaves to become sunburnt and eventually wither.
Temperature Requirements
The Sedum purpureum plant thrives well in a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). The plant can still tolerate much cooler or warmer temperatures, although growth may become severely stunted or even die if temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C) or rise above 90°F (32°C).
Soil Requirements
The Sedum purpureum plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 to 7.5. It is tolerant of many different soil types such as sandy, loamy, or rocky soil, and even dry and shallow soil. However, it prefers soil with a good amount of organic matter to assist with moisture retention. Poorly draining soil or soil that remains wet for long periods can lead to root rot and plant death. It is advisable to allow the soil to dry out between watering intervals.
Cultivation Methods for Sedum purpureum (L.) J.A. Schultes
The Sedum purpureum is a succulent species commonly known as Purple Jelly Beans. This plant is native to the Americas and can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors. The cultivation method for Sedum purpureum is simple and requires minimal care and maintenance.
The plant prefers well-draining soil and is tolerant to drought. Sedums can survive extreme weather conditions, including cold, frost, and heat. Therefore, they can be grown in zones 3 through 9.
When selecting a pot for Sedum purpureum, ensure that it is not too big for the plant. The pot should have drainage holes to avoid waterlogging of the soil. The plant doesn't require repotting frequently, mainly when the plant becomes rootbound.
Watering Needs for Sedum purpureum (L.) J.A. Schultes
The Sedum purpureum plant has a shallow root system, which means it doesn't require frequent watering. Water the plant once a week during the growing season and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
The best time to water Sedum purpureum is in the morning or evening when the temperature is cooler. Watering in the afternoon may cause the water to evaporate too quickly, depriving the plant of the much-needed moisture.
Fertilization of Sedum purpureum (L.) J.A. Schultes
The Sedum purpureum doesn't require frequent fertilization. The plant can survive in poor soil, making it a low-maintenance plant. Fertilize the plant with a succulent fertilizer once or twice a year, preferably during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization because it may damage the root system.
Pruning of Sedum purpureum (L.) J.A. Schultes
Pruning Sedum purpureum is straightforward and doesn't require special skills. Pruning helps to maintain the plant's shape and size and keeps it healthy. Prune the plant in early spring before the growing season begins. Cut back the old stems and remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant. You can also propagate the plant by cutting the stems and planting them in a new pot.
Propagation of Sedum purpureum (L.) J.A. Schultes
Sedum purpureum (L.) J.A. Schultes, commonly known as Purple Stonecrop, is a low-growing perennial succulent that is easy to propagate. Its propagation can be done through several methods, including:
Leaf cuttings
Sedum purpureum can be propagated through leaf cuttings. To do this, take a healthy leaf from the plant and let the cut part dry for 24-48 hours. Put the leaf in a well-draining potting mix, and make sure the soil stays moist until new shoots begin to appear. It takes about 2-3 weeks for the new plant to develop roots and shoots.
Stem cuttings
Another way to propagate Sedum purpureum is through stem cuttings. To do this, cut a healthy stem from the plant, let it dry for a day, and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Water it thoroughly and put it in a bright location but away from direct sunlight. It takes about 2-3 weeks for roots and new shoots to emerge.
Division
Plant division is another propagation method for Sedum purpureum. To divide the plant, take a mature plant and carefully remove it from its pot or the ground. Then gently separate the roots and stems into different sections, each having a few shoots and roots. Replant these sections into a fresh potting mix. Water the new plants, and make sure to keep them in a bright location.
Seed sowing
Propagation by seed sowing is also possible for Sedum purpureum. It requires a bit more patience than other methods since it takes longer for the plant to develop roots and shoots. Sow the seeds in a well-drained soil mix and keep it moist. It typically takes around two weeks for the seeds to germinate, and around two to three months for the plants to develop into mature, fully-grown plants.
By following these propagation methods, you can easily propagate Sedum purpureum and grow new plants without too much difficulty.
Disease and Pest Management for Sedum purpureum (L.) J.A. Schultes
Sedum purpureum (L.) J.A. Schultes, commonly known as Purple Stonecrop, is a drought-tolerant, succulent plant that is relatively easy to grow. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to pests and diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to learn how to manage common pests and diseases that might affect the plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Sedum purpureum is root rot, which is caused by fungi such as Pythium, Rhizoctonia, and Phytophthora. Root rot can lead to stunted growth, wilting, chlorosis, and even death of the plant. To manage root rot, it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged. Also, avoid overwatering the plant and provide adequate spacing to allow for adequate air circulation.
Another common disease that affects Sedum purpureum is powdery mildew, which is caused by fungi such as Erysiphe cichoracearum and Leveillula taurica. Powdery mildew can lead to whitish-gray powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to avoid overhead watering and ensure adequate spacing between plants. Also, prune and remove infected plant parts and apply fungicides if necessary.
Fusarium wilt is another disease that can affect Sedum purpureum. This disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum, which attacks the roots of the plant leading to wilting and death. To manage Fusarium wilt, avoid overwatering the plant, maintain proper soil drainage, and practice proper sanitation by removing any infected plants from the garden.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that affect Sedum purpureum is aphids. They are tiny, soft-bodied insects that suck the plant's sap, leading to stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, remove them by hand or by blasting the plant with a strong stream of water. Alternatively, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Another common pest that affects Sedum purpureum is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, leading to yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, remove them by hand or by applying a strong stream of water to the plant. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Mealybugs are another common pest that can affect Sedum purpureum. They are small, white, and fluffy insects that suck the plant's sap, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of the leaves, and even death of the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove them by hand or by using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to kill them. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
In conclusion, Sedum purpureum is a beautiful and resilient plant that can survive in harsh conditions. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to pests and diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to manage common pests and diseases to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
