Fei Cai Sedum aizoon
ABOUT
Sedum aizoon, also known as Fei Cai, is a succulent plant that is quite striking in appearance. It has thick, fleshy leaves that are usually a bright green color, with edges that may turn red under certain conditions. The leaves are arranged in a whorled pattern along the stems, lending the plant a dense, bushy look. These leaves are often spear-shaped, with a slight curve that ends in a point. During the blooming period, Fei Cai produces clusters of star-shaped yellow flowers. These flowers are small but abundant, creating an eye-catching display that stands in contrast to the green foliage. The blooms typically appear atop the stems, which rise from the plant in a way that shows off the flowers. Fei Cai's overall form is generally upright and spreading. Its texture is somewhat coarse, due to the chunky leaves and robust stems. The plant can present a lush and healthy appearance when well-tended, making it a favorite among gardeners and plant enthusiasts for use in rock gardens, borders, or as a ground cover. The visual appeal of Sedum aizoon lies in its hardy nature and the vibrant contrast between its leaves and the lively yellow flowers it produces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Crassulaceae.
Synonyms
Aizoon Stonecrop, Fei Cai, Orpin Aizoon.
Common names
Phedimus aizoon, Sedum erubescens, Sedum lineare var. aizoon.
ToxicityTo humans
Sedum aizoon, commonly known as Aizoon Stonecrop, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting this plant typically does not cause serious harm, but as with any non-food plants, consumption should be avoided, as individual sensitivity could lead to stomach upset or allergic reactions.
To pets
Aizoon Stonecrop is also not known to be toxic to pets. It should not cause any serious symptoms if ingested in small amounts. However, it's always a good practice to keep a close watch on pets to ensure they do not consume plants excessively, as overingestion could potentially cause gastrointestinal irritation.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance: Sedum aizoon typically requires minimal care, thriving in a variety of conditions without needing frequent watering or fertilizing.
- Drought Resistance: The plant is highly drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for dry climates and water-conservation gardens.
- Suitable for Green Roofs: Due to its hardiness and ability to withstand harsh conditions, it is an ideal candidate for green roofing projects.
- Attracts Pollinators: Sedum aizoon blooms attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, helping to pollinate other plants in the vicinity.
- Erosion Control: Its dense growth habit can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Aesthetic Value: The plant provides visual interest with its succulent leaves and star-shaped yellow flowers, adding beauty to garden spaces.
- Ground Cover: It can serve as an effective ground cover, spreading to fill spaces and reducing weed growth.
- Seasonal Interest: Its foliage and blooms add seasonal interest to gardens, with flowers typically appearing in late spring and early summer.
- Adaptability: Sedum aizoon can adapt to a wide range of soil types and pH levels, though it prefers well-drained soils.
- Cold Tolerance: It can tolerate cold temperatures and is hardy in many regions, making it a suitable plant for temperate gardens.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Sedum aizoon is traditionally used for its potential anti-inflammatory properties in treating certain inflammatory conditions.
- Antibacterial: The plant has been reported to contain compounds that exhibit antibacterial activity against various pathogenic bacteria.
- Hemostatic: It has been used in folk medicine to stop bleeding, both internally and externally.
- Hepatoprotective: There is some evidence to suggest Sedum aizoon may have liver-protecting effects.
- Antioxidant: The plant may contain antioxidants, which can help in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
- Antitumor: There are compounds found in Sedum aizoon that might exhibit activities against certain tumor cells.
- Immunomodulatory: It might influence the immune system, either by boosting or suppressing it, to help treat various diseases.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Sedum aizoon, commonly known as Fei Cai in some regions, is used in green roof systems for its drought-resistant qualities, allowing it to survive with minimal maintenance.
- It can be utilized in rock gardens due to its ability to grow in poor soil conditions and its characteristic formation of neat, low clumps that accentuate the aesthetics of the garden.
- The plant's thick, succulent leaves can be used in floral arrangements to add texture and a touch of greenery.
- Sedum aizoon is incorporated into butterfly gardens as it provides a nectar source for various species of butterflies and other pollinators.
- The plant is useful for erosion control on slopes and banks as it forms a ground cover that helps to stabilize the soil.
- Its dense growth habit can be exploited to outcompete weeds, reducing the need for chemical herbicides in landscaping.
- Landscapers might use Sedum aizoon as a low-maintenance alternative to traditional lawn grass in areas where foot traffic is light.
- The plant's ability to store water in its leaves makes it a suitable candidate for xeriscaping, a landscaping method that reduces or eliminates the need for supplemental water from irrigation.
- It can be used as a living mulch between larger plants in garden beds, helping to retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Biodiverse roofs or "living roofs" can include Sedum aizoon among other plant species to enhance biodiversity and provide habitats for urban wildlife.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sedum aizoon is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sedum aizoon is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Sedum aizoon, commonly known as the "Fei Cai" in Chinese which literally translates to "Fat Vegetable," is a succulent that can thrive in harsh conditions with minimal water, symbolizing the ability to endure and persist through tough times.
- Adaptability: As a plant that can easily adapt to different environments, Sedum aizoon represents the ability to flourish in a variety of circumstances and the willingness to adjust to change.
- Healing: Used in traditional medicine, this plant is often associated with healing and recuperation, symbolizing the restoration of health and balance.
- Peace: In some cultures, Sedum aizoon represents tranquility and peace, potentially because of its use in gardens to create a soothing and calm ambiance.
- Longevity: Due to its hardy nature and perennial growth, Sedum aizoon can also symbolize long life and immortality.
WaterFei Cai should be watered sparingly, as it is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-drained soil. During the growing season, watering once a week with about 10 to 12 onzes of water per square foot should suffice. It is crucial to let the soil dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. In winter, reduce watering to once every other week or less, depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment, as the plant enters dormancy and requires even less moisture.
LightFei Cai thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureFei Cai is hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature range for the Fei Cai is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to protect the plant from frost, as prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can be detrimental.
PruningFei Cai should be pruned to remove dead or damaged foliage and to maintain its shape. Pruning is best done in early spring before new growth begins. This plant doesn't typically require frequent pruning, once a year should suffice. Pruning at the appropriate time helps in encouraging healthy growth and flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFei Cai, or Sedum aizoon, thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and gritty material like perlite or pumice. The ideal pH for Fei Cai is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A good soil mix formula would be 1 part potting soil, 1 part coarse sand, and 1 part perlite or fine pumice to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
RepottingFei Cai, commonly known as Sedum aizoon, should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. This succulent prefers not being disturbed too often, so repotting should be done with care to avoid damaging the roots and only when necessary for plant health or size.
Humidity & MistingFei Cai, or Sedum aizoon, is tolerant of a range of humidity levels but prefers a drier environment. It does best in low to moderate humidity, typical of arid and Mediterranean climates. Avoid high humidity conditions to prevent rot and fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Fei Cai in bright light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant Fei Cai in full sun to part shade in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleFei Cai Sedum, or Sedum aizoon, begins its life cycle as a small seed, which germinates in early spring given the right conditions of light, warmth, and moisture. The seed develops into a small seedling with rudimentary leaves, and as it grows, the plant forms a sturdy stem and fleshy, succulent leaves, characteristic of many Sedum species. The vegetative stage is marked by rapid growth and the expansion of its root system, enabling Fei Cai Sedum to store water and nutrients. Once the plant reaches maturity, which can vary from one to several years, it produces clusters of yellow flowers typically in midsummer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After successful pollination, the flowers will develop into seed capsules, containing numerous tiny seeds that disperse to propagate the next generation. As a perennial plant, Fei Cai Sedum may die back to the ground in cooler climates during winter only to re-emerge from its roots in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Sedum aizoon, commonly known as Fei Cai, is best propagated during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The most popular method of propagation is by cuttings. To propagate by cuttings, a gardener should select a healthy stem and cut a 2 to 4-inch piece, which is about 5 to 10 centimeters. It is important to use a sharp knife or a pair of scissors to ensure a clean cut. The cut end should then be allowed to callous over for a few days to prevent rot when it is planted. Once calloused, the cutting can be planted in well-draining soil, lightly watered and placed in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be treated as an adult Sedum aizoon.
