Origin
Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum is a slow-growing perennial plant found in the western part of North America. It is mostly found in the mountain regions of California, Oregon, and Idaho, usually on rocky outcrops and cliffs.
Common Names
The Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum has several common names, including "Narrow-petaled stonecrop," "Cliff stonecrop," "Ciliate stonecrop," and "Hairy stonecrop."
Uses
The plant is often grown as an ornamental plant in rock gardens or as ground cover. Its dense mat-like growth pattern and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for landscaping. Additionally, the plant has some medicinal uses, and some Native American tribes used it as a food source.
General Appearance
The Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum is a low-growing, mat-forming succulent that can reach up to 6 inches in height and up to 1 foot in width. Its leaves are small, fleshy, and green, approximately 1 cm long and about 1-2 mm wide. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs or in whorls of three along the stem and are slightly curved upward. The plant has yellow-green, star-shaped flowers that bloom in early summer and are held above the foliage on thin, wiry stems. The plant requires full sun or partial shade and well-drained soils. It is drought-resistant and can tolerate harsh conditions, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping.
Growth Conditions for Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum (T.J. Howell) Clausen
Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum (T.J. Howell) Clausen is a low-growing succulent plant that is native to rocky and gravelly areas of the western United States.
Light Requirements
This plant thrives in full sunlight, and it should be planted in areas that receive at least 6 hours of full sun per day. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not grow as vigorously in shaded areas.
Temperature Requirements
Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum (T.J. Howell) Clausen is hardy in zones 6-9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°F. It prefers mild temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. In hotter areas, it may require some afternoon shade to avoid wilting in extreme heat.
Soil Requirements
This plant thrives in well-draining soil with good aeration. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, rocky, and gravelly soils. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly alkaline, with a range of 6.0-7.5.
Therefore, to grow this plant successfully, ensure its light, temperature, and soil requirements are met.
Cultivation Methods for Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum
Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum is a low-growing succulent plant that is native to North America. To cultivate this plant, it is best to start with well-draining soil, preferably a mix of sand, perlite or vermiculite, and peat moss. This plant prefers full sun exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is hardy to USDA zones 4-9, which means it can withstand extreme cold or heat.
When planting, make sure to space each plant at least six inches apart to give it room to grow. This plant can also be propagated through stem or leaf cuttings. Place the cuttings in water or moist soil until roots begin to form.
Watering Needs for Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum
Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum is drought-tolerant, which means it does not require a lot of water. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is best to water only when the soil is dry to the touch. During the growing season, water once a week. In winter, when the plant is dormant, water once a month or less.
Fertilization for Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum
Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum does not require frequent fertilization. Once a year, in spring, you can give the plant a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 mix. Be sure to dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid damaging the plant.
Pruning Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum
Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum does not require much pruning. However, trimming back the stems by one-third after flowering can encourage new growth and keep the plant compact. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems as needed throughout the year. If the plant becomes too unruly, you can trim it back severely in early spring to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum (T.J. Howell) Clausen
Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum (T.J. Howell) Clausen, commonly known as Coastal Stonecrop, can be propagated in multiple ways.
Division
One way to propagate the plant is through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system. Carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the stems and roots into smaller clumps. Replant the divisions and water thoroughly. This method is best done during the plant's active growth period in spring or early summer.
Stem Cuttings
Another method of propagation is through stem cuttings. Take a cutting of a healthy stem about four inches long with a few sets of leaves. Strip the bottom two sets of leaves off the stem and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Place the cutting in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist as the cutting forms roots. This method should be done in spring or summer.
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are also a propagation method for Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum. Remove a single leaf by cutting it off from the stem. Leave the stalk intact. Dip the cut end of the leaf in rooting hormone and plant it shallowly in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist as the leaf cutting forms roots. This method can be done anytime during the plant's growing period.
With proper care, each of these propagation methods can lead to healthy new plants.
Disease Management
The Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum is prone to fungal and bacterial diseases like rust, powdery mildew, leaf spot, and stem canker. The best way to avoid diseases is to maintain proper plant hygiene, and keeping the plants free from excess moisture. In case a disease spreads, the infected areas of the plant should be trimmed and disposed of away from other plants.
Pest Management
Common pests that can attack Sedum stenopetalum Pursh ssp. ciliosum include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Installing yellow sticky traps close to the plant can help control spider mites and aphids. Ladybugs and lacewings also feed on mites and aphids, making them useful biological controls. To manage mealybugs, spray a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water onto the affected areas. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
