For anyone looking for a unique and low–maintenance addition to their terrarium, Sedum is an ideal succulent choice.
Not only are these plants attractive and visually interesting, but they are also extremely hardy and require little care to thrive.
In this article, we will explore the many benefits of Stonecrop as an ideal terrarium companion.
| Quick Stats: | |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sedum spp. |
| Common Name | Stonecrop, stonebreaker, dragon’s blood |
| Family Name | Crassulaceae |
| Habitat | Arid, rocky |
| Temperature | 50°F to 75°F |
| Height | 6 to 8 inches |
| pH | 6.0 to 7.0 |
| Lighting | Bright, direct |
What is a StoneCrop?
Stone Crop is a robust, low-growing perennial succulent plant with fleshy leaves, stems, and flowers that are rich in sap.
This species of sedum is also known as Stone Crop because it commonly grows in rocky areas and on sidelong mountain terrain on soil that is low in fertility and is preferred in xeriscaping due to its low water needs.
Stone Crop Facts
Stonecrop’s history dates back to the prehistoric period when ancient Romans and Greeks were using this succulent for medical and culinary purposes.
In modern times, this species of Sedum is popular for vivariums due to its interesting color display and low care requirements.
Stonecrop is a tough, drought-tolerant plant and can easily take neglect, making it a suitable plant for beginner hobbyists.
Description
Sedum spp. is a mat-forming, evergreen perennial succulent with thick stems and succulent, fleshy, round leaves.
The leaves have a thick and fleshy texture, are round- to oval-shaped, and have a bright green to reddish-green color depending on the variety.
In optimal conditions, the plant may produce beautiful star-shaped flowers that are yellow, pinkish-yellow, white, or red.
Habitat
Stonecrop is native to North America and Europe but is found in many parts of the world.
This succulent commonly grows in arid, mountainous areas and on rocky slopes with gravelly soil.
It is adapted to withstand poor soils, extended dry periods, and temperatures ranging from 20°F to 95°F.
pH Preference
Stonecrop is adaptable to a wide range of soil pH ranges and can tolerate anything from 5.0 to 6.0 but will grow optimally in soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Vivarium Type
Stonecrop is quite an easy-going species. With that in mind, it will not be too complicated when it comes to choosing the type of enclosure it is grown in.
It is best to try and replicate the plant’s natural habitat as much as possible.
Doing so will make it easier to provide this succulent plant with its basic needs.
The proper setup and theme of the enclosure will make a big difference to the overall look and health of the plant.
Here are recommended vivariums it will do well in:
- Terrariums – Fully terrain-based enclosures with little to no aquatic features.
Vivarium Placement
Stonecrop can be used in many types of vivariums, from tropical to desert.
It is an ideal foreground or mid-ground plant that can be used to create a mat of color.
This succulent requires very minimal maintenance and does not require high levels of humidity; due to this, it is a great plant choice for a desert-themed terrarium.
Substrate
Stonecrop can be grown in a range of substrates including potting soil and terrarium soil that is well-draining.
It can also be grown in gravel, sand, or rock.
When planting the stone crop on the substrate, make sure to create a space between the soil and the root system of the plant to enhance its growth.
Lighting
Sedum spp. requires direct sunlight for optimal growth and should be placed in an area of the vivarium that receives four to five hours of direct morning light.
If you’d like to keep the plant indoors, supplement it with a fluorescent bulb or LED light that provides supplemental terrarium lighting.
Buy Stone Crop
When it comes to buying stonecrop, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Making sure the plant is healthy when purchased is essential for its success in a vivarium.
Vegetation that is already in poor conditions will have a very hard time adjusting to new environments.
Click the image below to find out more about the current price and other relative info about this plant.
Stone Crop Care and Propagation
Propagating stonecrop is simple and can be done by division of the root clump.
Small division pieces break free easily and can quickly be established in the vivarium.
To enhance its growth, make sure to give it infrequent watering and occasional fertilizer when it is actively growing.
How to Grow
When growing stonecrop in a vivarium, it is important to make sure the substrate is well-draining and that the soil is not heavily compacted.
If the soil is compacted, it will be difficult for this plant to thrive in the terrarium.
Once in the soil, stonecrop should receive direct sunlight and should be watered on a mild and infrequent basis.
Watering
Stonecrop requires very little water and should only be watered when the soil is dry to the touch.
When the plant is actively growing, it is essential to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Over-watering will cause the plants to become mushy and can potentially kill them.
Plants Similar to Stone Crop
Adding diversity to an enclosure is key to an aesthetically pleasing setup.
Try mixing up the look of your vivarium with different flora that can easily co-exist in the same types of environment.
Furthermore, if for some reason you find stonecrop is hard to acquire or would like to consider something similar to this plant…
Here are other succulents you might find will do well with or in the place of Sedum spp.:
Conclusion
My overall opinion of Stonecrop is that it is a great and easy-to-care-for succulent to add to any vivarium.
With its minimal care requirements, stonecrop adds a great ornamental element to the enclosure with its interesting shapes and colors.
This succulent is a great choice for beginner hobbyists who do not want to worry about a terrarium plant demanding constant attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Sedum and Stonecrop are the same thing. Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a large genus of flowering succulent plants in the family Crassulaceae. They are commonly used in gardens and landscapes for their drought–tolerant nature, low–maintenance requirements, and attractive foliage.
Stonecrop grows best in sunny, well–draining locations, such as rock gardens, dry meadows, and in between paving stones. It is tolerant of a range of soil types but prefers sandy or rocky soils. It is drought–tolerant and can thrive in areas with hot, dry summers.
Stonecrop is a perennial plant. It typically grows and blooms in the summer and fall months. Its leaves are green or gray–green and its flowers are typically yellow or white.
No, stonecrop sedum is not considered an invasive plant. This species of succulent is native to Europe and Asia, and is generally considered to be an easy–to–care–for groundcover that is often used in rock gardens and as an accent in larger gardens.
Stonecrop usually blooms from late spring to early autumn. The exact bloom times vary depending on the species, but most bloom in late June and July.