Stonecrop Hylotelephium 'Mr Goodbud' (PBR)
ABOUT
Mr Goodbud is an attractive succulent perennial with a sturdy, upright habit, known for its distinctive foliage and eye-catching flower clusters. Its leaves are fleshy with a deep blue-green color, adding to the overall lush appearance of the plant. These leaves are often spoon-shaped with a slight serration on the edges, exhibiting a waxy surface that can appear almost dusted with a fine white powder. As the seasons transition from summer to autumn, Mr Goodbud boasts a spectacular floral display. The flowers emerge in dense clusters, each individual bloom formed like a tiny star. These clusters are a vivid pink, almost magenta in color, creating a striking contrast against the cooler tones of the foliage. The flowers are held aloft on strong, straight stems, and they tend to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding a dynamic element to the garden. The overall appearance of Mr Goodbud is both robust and decorative, making it a popular choice for gardeners seeking both aesthetic appeal and hardiness in their perennial borders or rock gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Crassulaceae
Synonyms
Stonecrop, Sedum
Common names
Hylotelephium telephium 'Mr Goodbud'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Stonecrop, which is the common name for Hylotelephium 'Mr Goodbud' (PBR), is generally not considered toxic to humans. However, it is always prudent to avoid ingesting any plant material that is not intended for consumption, as individual reactions can vary, and there is the potential for gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea or an upset stomach.
To pets
The Stonecrop is also typically non-toxic to pets. While it is not known to be harmful, it is still best to prevent pets from consuming plant material. If ingested in large quantities, it could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea in some animals. It's always best to keep an eye on your pets and prevent them from eating plants not meant for their consumption.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Hylotelephium 'Mr Goodbud', commonly known as Stonecrop, attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Stonecrop is very tolerant of drought, requiring minimal watering and care, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
- Easy to Care For: This plant is renowned for being low-maintenance, withstanding neglect, and thriving in a variety of soil types.
- Seasonal Interest: Stonecrop offers vibrant late summer to fall blooms, providing color and interest in the garden when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Winter Hardiness: It is hardy in many climates and can survive cold winters, making it suitable for a range of growing zones.
- Erosion Control: The thick, succulent leaves and sturdy stems of Stonecrop help prevent erosion by stabilizing soil in the garden or landscape.
- Structural Aesthetic: The upright form and strong stems of Stonecrop make it an excellent choice for adding structure and form to garden borders and beds.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hylotelephium 'Mr Goodbud' can be used to create a textured effect in mixed-media art, where its fleshy leaves and interesting colors can add depth and a nature-inspired aesthetic.
- The dried flower heads can be incorporated into homemade potpourri mixtures, giving a unique look and potentially imparting a subtle fragrance.
- Crushed, dried leaves of the 'Mr Goodbud' can be used to create natural dyes for fabric and paper, yielding unexpected color variations.
- Children can use the non-toxic leaves and stems in nature-based crafts, such as making fairy houses or natural mosaics.
- Fine dining restaurants could use the flowers as an edible garnish to add visual appeal to plates, as long as they are pesticide-free.
- Photographers might use the plants as subjects or backdrops in their work to capture the striking colors during the different seasons.
- Leaves can be used as natural confetti in eco-friendly celebrations, as they are biodegradable and come in a variety of colors.
- The structural form of 'Mr Goodbud' can inspire architectural designs or be used as a model in educational settings for botanical studies.
- Their robust nature allows them to be used in outdoor sensory gardens, to provide a variety of textures and stimulate the sense of touch.
- Culinary experiments might involve incorporating the mildly peppery leaves into salads or as an ingredient in herb butters.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Sedum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Sedum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perseverance: As a succulent type, the Stonecrop, which Hylotelephium 'Mr Goodbud' is a variety of, is known for its resilience and ability to withstand harsh conditions, which it symbolizes the ability to endure and persist.
- Adaptability: Stonecrops are adaptable plants that can thrive in a variety of climates and soils, representing the trait of flexibility and the capacity to thrive regardless of circumstances.
- Peace: Stonecrops often have a calming presence in the garden due to their lush foliage and soothing colors, symbolizing tranquility and serenity in one's surroundings.
- Long-lasting Nature: With its tendency to live for several years, the Stonecrop signifies durability, reliability, and long-lasting relationships.
- Abundance: The full, abundant clusters of flowers produced by Stonecrops can symbolize prosperity and wealth, suggesting a bountiful return on one's efforts.
WaterSedum 'Mr Goodbud', a succulent plant, requires minimal watering due to its drought-tolerant nature. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water the sedum when the top inch of soil feels dry, approximately once every 7 to 10 days, with about 8-16 ounces of water depending on the size of the plant and pot. Reduce watering in the fall and winter to once a month or less, as the plant enters a dormant state and needs even less moisture. Always avoid water logging by ensuring the pot has good drainage, as sedum is susceptible to root rot if the soil remains too wet. It's better to under-water than over-water this hardy perennial.
LightSedum 'Mr Goodbud' thrives in full sun conditions, meaning it should be placed in a spot where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Bright light will ensure strong growth and vibrant flower coloration. While it can tolerate some partial shade, too much shade can lead to weak, leggy growth and fewer flowers. Avoid placing it in deep shade which would significantly hinder its growth and flowering potential.
TemperatureSedum 'Mr Goodbud' prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season. It can withstand temperatures down to 30 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for outdoor growth in areas that experience colder temperatures. However, in extreme heat over 90 degrees Fahrenheit, it's important to provide some afternoon shade to prevent scorching. Ideal growing conditions involve a moderate climate with gradual changes between day and nighttime temperatures.
PruningPruning Sedum 'Mr Goodbud' is vital for maintaining its shape and promoting vigorous growth. Prune the sedum in early spring to remove any dead or damaged tissue from the previous growing season. Cut back old flowers and stems to encourage the growth of new foliage and blooms. Pruning can be done again lightly after flowering to maintain plant form. The best time for major pruning is when new growth starts to emerge in spring, and occasional deadheading during the growing season can help to keep the plant looking tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Sedum 'Mr Goodbud' should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. A mixture of loam, sand, and compost, in equal parts, is ideal. The pH for this plant's soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.
RepottingSedum 'Mr Goodbud' does not need frequent repotting and can typically be repotted every 2-3 years. Regular repotting helps to refresh the soil and provide room for growth.
Humidity & MistingSedum 'Mr Goodbud' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels, but it prefers low to average household humidity. They do not require high humidity to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light with some direct sun.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleHylotelephium 'Mr Goodbud', commonly known as a type of Stonecrop, begins its life cycle when seeds are sowed or cuttings are taken in spring. As temperatures warm, the young plants experience a phase of rapid vegetative growth, developing fleshy leaves and sturdy stems. During the summer, the plant continues to grow, storing energy in its succulent leaves and preparing for its reproductive phase. By late summer to early fall, 'Mr Goodbud' reaches maturity and produces clusters of tightly packed, star-shaped flowers, attracting pollinators. Following pollination, seeds develop and are dispersed in late fall to early winter, allowing the plant to propagate for the next season. In winter, the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, undergoing a period of dormancy until the return of favorable conditions in spring when the growth cycle restarts.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer
Hylotelephium 'Mr Goodbud', commonly known as Stonecrop, is best propagated through stem cuttings. The optimal time for taking cuttings is in early summer, when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, choose a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 3 to 4-inch (7.6 to 10.2 cm) section. Strip the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, allowing a few leaves to remain at the top. Allow the cut end to callous over for a few days to prevent rotting. Then, place the cutting in well-draining soil, watering sparingly until roots develop. This method allows for quick establishment and results in new, strong plants that mirror the parent plant's characteristics.
