Dragon's Blood Stonecrop Sedum spurium 'Tricolor' (v)
ABOUT
The Sedum spurium 'Tricolor' (v), commonly known as the Tricolor Stonecrop, is a visually striking succulent that exhibits a rich tapestry of colors in its foliage. The leaves are small and scalloped, with a variegation that includes shades of green, creamy white, and pink. The variegated pattern gives the plant a dynamic and vibrant appearance. During different seasons or varying light conditions, the pink in the leaves can intensify, adding to the tricolor effect. Tricolor Stonecrop typically forms low-growing mats of dense, compact foliage, making it an excellent groundcover or accent plant in rock gardens, along pathways, or in containers. The leaves grow in whorls and create a textural appearance due to their tight, overlapping arrangement. Throughout the growing season, the plant can produce small, star-shaped flowers that add an additional layer of appeal. The flowers are typically of a soft pink hue, contrasting beautifully against the variegated leaves. They appear in clusters atop short stems that rise slightly above the foliage. Overall, the Sedum spurium 'Tricolor' (v) is highly valued for its decorative appeal, with a multi-colored leaf pattern that makes it a delightful addition to any garden space emphasizing foliage. Its succulent nature also signifies that it can handle periods of drought once established, maintaining its attractive appearance even in less-than-ideal conditions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Crassulaceae.
Synonyms
Caucasian Stonecrop, Two-row Stonecrop, Dragon's Blood Stonecrop.
Common names
Sedum spurium 'Tricolor' (v).
ToxicityTo humans
Dragon's blood is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning, and it is often used in landscaping without issue. There might be individual cases of sensitivity or allergic reactions, but typically, ingesting parts of the plant does not lead to any severe consequences for humans.
To pets
Dragon's blood is also known to be non-toxic to pets. This means that dogs, cats, and other domestic animals can encounter this plant without the risk of poisoning. It is a pet-friendly plant, making it a popular choice for gardeners who have pets. However, even non-toxic plants can cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities, so it is always best to prevent pets from consuming plants unnecessarily.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Mixed
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
18 inches (45 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Caucasus
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to Grow: Sedum spurium 'Tricolor' (v), commonly known as the Three-Color Stonecrop, is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it has excellent tolerance to drought, making it ideal for xeriscaping or areas with low water availability.
- Attractive Foliage: The plant has variegated leaves with shades of green, white, and pink, providing visual interest throughout the growing season.
- Ground Cover: Its mat-forming growth habit makes it excellent for ground cover applications, reducing soil erosion and suppressing weeds.
- Seasonal Interest: In addition to its colorful leaves, it produces pink to red flowers in summer, adding seasonal blooms to the garden.
- Cold Hardy: It is resistant to cold and can survive in lower temperatures, making it suitable for temperate climates.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- Rapid Growth: The plant spreads quickly, effectively filling in spaces and providing fast coverage in new or established gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dragon's Blood sedum can be used in green roofing to provide insulation and reduce urban heat islands due to its hardiness and low maintenance requirements.
- This sedum can be planted over pet graves as a resilient, ever-present memorial that changes colors with the seasons.
- In craft projects, the colorful leaves of Dragon's Blood sedum can be pressed and used for botanical art pieces or card making.
- This sedum can be grown in hanging baskets for a low-water usage and attractive cascade of tricolored foliage.
- Dragon's Blood sedum can act as a natural barrier to prevent soil erosion on slopes or embankments due to its mat-forming growth habit.
- It can be used as a living mulch to suppress weeds while retaining soil moisture in garden beds.
- In fairy gardens, Dragon's Blood sedum adds a touch of whimsy and vibrant color to miniature landscapes.
- This plant may deter some pests and insects from more sensitive plants in the garden with its succulent leaves.
- Dragon's Blood sedum can be a part of sensory gardens, offering a variety of textures and colors for tactile and visual stimulation.
- When planted in a labyrinth or meditation garden, it provides a low-maintenance, colorful pathway edge that can help to create a calming environment.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dragon's Blood Sedum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dragon's Blood Sedum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Persistence: Sedum spurium 'Tricolor,' commonly known as Stonecrop, has the ability to thrive in harsh conditions, symbolizing the ability to persist through challenges.
- Survival: Stonecrop is known for its resilience and minimal water needs, making it a symbol for survival and self-sufficiency.
- Peace: The easy-care nature of Stonecrop represents tranquility and stress-free existence.
- Timelessness: Stonecrop can survive for many years, representing timelessness and endurance.
WaterThe Dragon's Blood Stonecrop prefers a well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly to avoid root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Generally, watering once every 7 to 10 days during active growing seasons in spring and summer is adequate, depending on the climate and weather conditions. During the winter dormant period, reduce watering frequency to once every 4 to 6 weeks. When watering, provide enough so that water runs out of the drainage holes, which might amount to approximately 16 ounces for small pots or up to 1 gallon for larger containers or outdoor plants.
LightDragon's Blood Stonecrop thrives best in full sun to partial shade. Placing it in a spot where it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily is ideal for promoting vibrant foliage and healthy growth. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureDragon's Blood Stonecrop is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures. This succulent can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can also handle temperatures up into the 90s during the summer months, as long as it's not exposed to excessive humidity.
PruningPruning Dragon's Blood Stonecrop is typically done to control its spread or remove any damaged or dead foliage. Pruning is best carried out in the early spring before new growth begins. This plant can be trimmed back as needed to keep its shape or to encourage a denser growth habit. It's a tough plant, and periodic trimming can keep it looking neat, although it doesn't require frequent pruning.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDragon’s Blood Stonecrop prefers well-draining soil with a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat. The ideal pH for the soil mix is neutral to slightly acidic, between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimum growth.
RepottingDragon’s Blood Stonecrop should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. The slow-growing nature of the plant prevents the need for frequent repotting.
Humidity & MistingDragon’s Blood Stonecrop thrives in low to average humidity conditions typical of most home environments. No specific humidity level is required.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Dragon’s Blood Stonecrop in bright light indoors for healthy growth.
Outdoor
Outdoors, grow Dragon’s Blood Stonecrop in full sun to light shade.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA.
Life cycleThe life cycle of Tricolor Stonecrop (Sedum spurium 'Tricolor') begins with seed germination, often in spring, where the tiny seeds sprout and establish a small rosette of variegated leaves. As the plant enters its vegetative growth stage, it rapidly spreads, forming a mat-like ground cover through its creeping stems that root at the nodes. Throughout the growing season, the fleshy leaves develop their distinct green, white, and pink tri-color pattern. In summer, the mature plant produces clusters of small, star-shaped pink flowers, attracting pollinators and leading to seed formation. After flowering, the Tricolor Stonecrop plant may enter a period of dormancy, especially in cooler climates, where it conserves energy and survives through winter. In the spring, the cycle resumes with fresh growth, completing its perennial life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The best time to propagate Stonecrop, or Sedum spurium 'Tricolor', is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The most popular method of propagation for Stonecrop is by leaf or stem cuttings. To propagate, choose a healthy looking stem and cut a 2 to 4-inch segment just below a leaf node using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or gardening shears. Allow the cut end of the stem to callus over for a day or two to prevent rot. Then, plant the cutting in well-draining soil mix, ensuring the leaf nodes are buried as these will help to encourage rooting. Keep the soil lightly moist but not waterlogged and place the pot in indirect light. Roots should develop within a few weeks, after which you can gradually acclimate the new plant to more sunlight.
