Russian Stonecrop Sedum kamtschaticum var. floriferum 'Weihenstephaner Gold'
ABOUT
'Weihenstephaner Gold' is a variety of the commonly known stonecrop plant that exhibits several distinctive visual features. It is a hardy, low-growing perennial with a dense, mat-forming habit. Its foliage consists of small, succulent, spoon-shaped leaves that are bright green in color. These leaves are arranged in whorls along the branching stems, which contribute to the plant’s lush, textured appearance. During the flowering season, 'Weihenstephaner Gold' produces clusters of star-shaped flowers. These blooms are typically bright yellow, providing a striking contrast against the green foliage. The flowers are arranged in dense, flat cymes, and they have an appealing, radiant appearance that can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant is well-regarded for its toughness and ability to thrive in various conditions, often used as groundcover, in rock gardens, or on slopes. Its plump leaves and vibrant flowers make 'Weihenstephaner Gold' an attractive and enduring addition to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Crassulaceae
Synonyms
Russian Stonecrop, Kamschatka Stonecrop, Kamschatka Sedum, Orange Stonecrop, Weihenstephaner Gold Stonecrop
Common names
Phedimus floriferus, Sedum floriferum, Sedum kamtschaticum subsp. floriferum.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Stonecrop is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of this plant typically does not result in any symptoms of poisoning. However, as with any plant material, individual sensitivities can vary and ingestion in large amounts could potentially cause stomach upset or other gastrointestinal discomfort.
To pets
Stonecrop is also considered non-toxic to pets. It should not cause any serious symptoms of poisoning if ingested by animals such as dogs or cats. Nevertheless, individual animals may have different sensitivities, and consuming plant material might lead to mild gastrointestinal upset for some pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Russia
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is highly resistant to drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond the initial planting and occasional watering in extreme drought.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers attract bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Erosion Control: Its mat-forming habit helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Attractive Foliage: Offers year-round visual interest with its succulent leaves that change color seasonally.
- Ground Cover: Quickly spreads to cover ground, suppressing weeds and reducing the need for mulching.
- Cold Hardy: Can survive in colder climates, making it suitable for a variety of landscapes.
- Adaptability: Thrives in a range of soil types, from clay to sandy soils, as long as they are well-drained.
- Seasonal Interest: Produces vibrant yellow flowers in late spring to early summer, adding color to the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafting: The colorful leaves of Sedum can be used in pressed flower crafts to create unique and natural art pieces.
- Green Roofing: Sedum species, including Weihenstephaner Gold, are often used in green roofing for their hardiness and low maintenance requirements.
- Erosion Control: The dense and spreading habit of Weihenstephaner Gold makes it suitable for controlling soil erosion on slopes and banks.
- Garden Photography: With its bright yellow flowers, it is an attractive subject for garden photography enthusiasts.
- Fairy Gardens: The small and compact size of Weihenstephaner Gold makes it an excellent choice for creating fairy gardens and miniature landscapes.
- Model Landscaping: Hobbyists who create model train landscapes or dioramas can use the plant for realistic miniature scenery.
- Floral Arrangements: The flowers and foliage can add an interesting texture to fresh floral arrangements.
- Decorative Mulching: Instead of traditional mulch, a groundcover of Weihenstephaner Gold provides a living, decorative layer to garden beds.
- Education: The plant can be used to educate about succulent care and propagation in gardening workshops or school projects.
- Living Wreaths: Sedum can be used to create long-lasting, living wreaths that thrive with minimal care.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Stonecrop is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Stonecrop is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Sedum kamtschaticum, commonly known as Russian Stonecrop, is a hardy plant that can thrive in tough conditions. Its ability to prosper in rocky or poor soil makes it a symbol of resilience and endurance.
- Tenacity: With its spreading habit and determination to grow, Russian Stonecrop signifies tenacity and the will to survive despite challenges.
- Adaptability: This plant's versatility and adaptability to different environments reflect a symbolic meaning of flexibility and the ability to adjust to various life situations.
- Longevity: As a perennial, Russian Stonecrop represents longevity and the passage of time, symbolizing durability and ongoing life.
- Prosperity: The golden-yellow flowers of 'Weihenstephaner Gold' evoke a sense of abundance and prosperity, possibly due to their bright, rich color resembling gold.
WaterOrange stonecrop requires moderate watering, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. During the growing season typically from spring through summer, water the plant once a week with roughly 16 ounces of water for a medium-sized pot, more or less depending on plant size and environmental conditions. Reduce watering frequency in the fall and further in the winter when the plant is dormant, possibly to once every 2-3 weeks, always checking the soil moisture before adding water.
LightOrange stonecrop thrives best in full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate some light shade, especially in hot climates, but the brightest light will ensure the most vibrant foliage and flower colors. Place it in a south-facing location if grown indoors or an unobstructed area in the garden.
TemperatureOrange stonecrop is hardy and can withstand a wide range of temperatures. It can survive minimum temperatures down to -30°F, making it suitable for many temperate climates. Ideally, it thrives in environments where average temperatures range between 60°F and 70°F during the growing season. The plant is frost hardy and will go dormant in the winter.
PruningPruning orange stonecrop is mainly for aesthetic purposes or to remove any dead foliage and spent flower heads. Trimming can be done in late fall or early spring. If necessary, light shaping can encourage a fuller, more compact growth habit. Pruning is not frequently required, but doing so after flowering can keep the plant looking tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Russian Stonecrop is a well-draining mixture with a pH of around 6.0 to 7.5. A combination of 1 part potting soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite, and 1 part peat or compost works well to provide the necessary drainage and nutrients.
RepottingRussian Stonecrop does not require frequent repotting; it generally needs to be repotted every 2-3 years. It's best to repot in the spring when the plant is entering a period of active growth.
Humidity & MistingRussian Stonecrop thrives in average humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments. It is quite tolerant of dry air and does not require high humidity to grow well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-drained soil, and infrequent watering.
Outdoor
Place in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleSedum kamtschaticum var. floriferum 'Weihenstephaner Gold', commonly known as Russian Stonecrop, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, upon germination in early spring, sends out roots and shoots. The shoots develop into fleshy, succulent leaves that form a low-growing, mat-like ground cover, adapting well to poor, dry soils. As the plant matures, usually in its second year, it produces bright yellow, star-shaped flowers in late spring to summer, attracting pollinators and increasing the plant's reproductive success through cross-pollination. Following flowering, seeds are formed in small fruits that, once dried, release the seeds to propagate the next generation. In fall, the leaves may take on a reddish tinge before dying back in winter, with the plant entering a period of dormancy to withstand cold temperatures. With the return of warm weather, Russian Stonecrop resumes growth from its hardy root system, continuing its perennial life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Stonecrop 'Weihenstephaner Gold' is through stem or leaf cuttings. This process is best done in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, one simply takes a healthy cutting about 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) in length, ensuring there are at least a couple of leaves attached. The cutting should be allowed to callous over for a day or two to heal the cut surface and reduce the risk of rotting. Once calloused, the cutting can be placed in well-draining soil and watered lightly to encourage root growth. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks, and after a secure root system is established, the new Stonecrop plant can be treated as a mature specimen.
