Creeping sedum, also known as stone crop flower, is a versatile plant that can thrive in various light conditions. However, the amount of sun it needs depends on the specific variety and its growth habit.
Generally, sedums do best in full to part sun. This means they prefer at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, but they can also tolerate some shade. It’s important to note that different sedum hybrids have different light requirements.
Taller sedum hybrids, such as Sedum spectabile ‘Autumn Joy’ or Sedum telephium ‘Matrona,’ typically require full sun to produce their best blooms. These varieties have larger, showy flower heads and benefit from the intense sunlight to fuel their growth and flowering. If these tall sedums are grown in partial shade, they may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
On the other hand, creeping sedum varieties, like Sedum spurium or Sedum album, are more adaptable to partial shade. These low-growing sedums form dense mats of foliage and smaller, more delicate flowers. They can tolerate less sunlight and are well-suited for areas with dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shade.
In my personal experience, I have grown Sedum spurium ‘Dragon’s Blood’ in a partially shaded area of my garden. While it didn’t receive direct sunlight for the entire day, it still thrived and produced beautiful red flowers. However, I noticed that when I moved a division of the same plant to a spot with more sun, it became more compact and had a more abundant bloom display.
To ensure the success of creeping sedums in partial shade, it’s important to select a location that receives at least a few hours of direct sunlight, preferably in the morning or early afternoon. This will provide enough light for the sedum to photosynthesize and thrive.
In terms of soil, sedums prefer a very well-drained medium with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. They are quite adaptable and can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. However, it’s crucial to avoid waterlogged conditions, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot and other issues.
Creeping sedums can tolerate partial shade, but they still require a minimum of a few hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. Taller sedum hybrids prefer full sun to produce their best blooms, while low-growing sedums are more adaptable to partial shade. It’s important to consider the specific variety and its light requirements when deciding on the best location for your sedum plants.
