Russian Stonecrop: The Ultimate Guide to Growing Sedum Kamtschaticum

By John Ehrling Posted on 1/15/23

Sedum Kamtschaticum, also known as Russian Stonecrop, is a beautiful and versatile succulent plant that is perfect for rock gardens, borders, and container gardens. This hardy perennial is native to Asia, and it is known for its striking foliage and vibrant flowers. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at Sedum Kamtschaticum, including its care requirements, propagation methods, and common pests and diseases.

 

Types of Russian Stonecrop

Sedum Kamtschaticum is a species of perennial succulent plant that is native to Asia. There are a few different varieties of Sedum Kamtschaticum that are commonly grown in gardens and as ornamental plants. Some of the most popular varieties include:

 

  • ‘Variegatum’: This variety has leaves that are variegated with creamy white edges.
  • ‘Golden Glow’: This variety has yellow leaves that turn orange in the fall.
  • ‘Red Cauli’: This variety has pinkish-red flowers that bloom in late summer.
  • ‘Purple Form’: This variety has deep purple leaves and pink flowers
  • ‘Blue Spruce’: This variety has blue-green leaves that resemble the needles of a spruce tree
  • ‘Orange Form’: This variety has orange-red leaves that turn more intense during the fall.
Green Russian Stonecrop
Source: Andrey Zharkikh

Russian Stonecrop Planting Considerations

When planting Russian Stonecrop, it is important to consider the following requirements:

Closeup of Russian Stonecrop
Source: 阿橋 HQ

Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and is drought-tolerant.

 

Fertilizer: Fertilizer is not necessary for Sedum Kamtschaticum, but it can benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring.

 

Sun: The plant prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade.

 

Propagation: Sedum Kamtschaticum can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the spring or by dividing the plant in the fall. When taking stem cuttings, it’s best to use a sharp, clean knife or scissors to remove a stem that is about 3 to 4 inches long, then let the cutting dry for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil.

 

Watering: Sedum Kamtschaticum is drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal watering, but it’s best to water the plant infrequently and deeply, as opposed to watering it frequently and shallowly.

 

It is hardy in zones 2-8, it can tolerate cold and frost, but in the colder zones it’s best to provide it with mulch or a winter protection.

 

Pests and Disease Care

Russian Stonecrop is generally considered to be a low-maintenance plant that is resistant to pests and diseases. However, some pests and diseases can affect the plant, including:

 

Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs can all feed on Sedum Kamtschaticum. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

 

Diseases: Sedum Kamtschaticum is not typically affected by many diseases, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. This disease can be controlled by providing good air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and removing any infected leaves.

 

Root rot: This can happen if the plant is overwatered or if the soil does not drain well. If you notice the leaves turn yellow and the plant wilts, it’s likely that the roots have rotted. To fix this, you should remove the plant from the pot and trim off any damaged roots. Then, replant it in well-draining soil and make sure to not overwater it.

Russian Stonecrop
Source: Leonora (Ellie) Enking

It is important to keep an eye on the plant, and if you notice any abnormal signs, it’s best to take action as soon as possible.

 

Sedum Kamtschaticum is a beautiful and low-maintenance succulent plant that is perfect for gardeners of all skill levels. It is hardy, drought-tolerant, and can tolerate a wide range of soil and light conditions. With proper care, Sedum Kamtschaticum will reward you with vibrant foliage and colorful flowers for many years to come. Whether you are planting it in a rock garden or a container, Sedum Kamtschaticum is a great choice for adding a touch of color and texture to your garden. If you’re growing Russian Stonecrop in your garden, head over to the gardening community and share your photos and thoughts!

Cover Image Source: Maja Dumat