Stonecrop Hylotelephium 'Vera Jameson'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Vera Jameson' showcases a distinctive appearance, characterized by its succulent leaves and sprawling habit. Its foliage is most striking for its dusty purple hue, which is complemented by the deeper, ruby-red undertones of the stems. This rich coloration tends to intensify as the cooler months approach. The leaves of 'Vera Jameson' are fleshy and rounded, often clustered together, forming a lush display of texture. As the growing season progresses, this plant produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers. These blossoms are typically a soft, pale pink, which contrasts beautifully against the darker tones of the foliage. The flowering clusters sit atop the stems, creating an appealing visual display that can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The overall visual impression of 'Vera Jameson' is one of a robust and attractive succulent that adds a touch of unique colors and textures to gardens or containers where it is grown. Its colors and seasonal transformations make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add depth and interest to their plantings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Crassulaceae
Synonyms
Vera Jameson Sedum, Vera Jameson Stonecrop
Common names
Hylotelephium 'Vera Jameson'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Stonecrop is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingestion of parts of this plant typically does not lead to serious poisoning. However, consuming large amounts of any plant material may cause discomfort, and Stonecrop may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested. It is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants and to keep them out of the reach of young children who might inadvertently ingest them.
To pets
Stonecrop is also considered non-toxic to pets. Similar to humans, pets that ingest parts of this plant are unlikely to suffer from serious poisoning. Generally, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, especially if consumed in large quantities. Pet owners should prevent pets from eating ornamental plants and monitor them for any signs of distress after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Purple
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 feet 6 inches (46 cm)
Spread
1 feet 6 inches (46 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of the sedum 'Vera Jameson' are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that are vital for pollination.
- Drought Tolerance: Sedum 'Vera Jameson' is highly drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and for gardeners in arid climates.
- Low Maintenance: This sedum variety requires minimal care, thriving in poor soil and resisting pests and diseases, which reduces the need for chemical treatments.
- Seasonal Interest: With attractive purple-tinged foliage and pink flowers, sedum 'Vera Jameson' adds color and visual interest to the garden throughout the growing season.
- Erosion Control: Its spreading habit and sturdy roots help stabilize soil on slopes, preventing erosion and runoff.
- Easy Propagation: It can be easily propagated from stem cuttings, division, or leaves, allowing gardeners to expand their plantings or share with others.
- Versatility: Sedum 'Vera Jameson' can be used in various garden designs, including rock gardens, borders, and as a ground cover, adding texture and depth to the landscape.
- Suitable for Containers: It performs well in containers and pots, which makes it a good option for patios, balconies, and other constrained spaces.
- Hardy: This plant is capable of withstanding cold temperatures and can survive in many climates without requiring special protection during the winter months.
- Wildlife Support: The dense foliage can provide hiding spots and habitat for small wildlife, contributing to a healthier, more diverse garden ecosystem.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Garden sculpture companion: Vera Jameson stonecrop, with its succulent leaves and arching stems, can be planted around garden sculptures to provide a lush, textured backdrop that accentuates the art.
- Livestock feed supplement: In some parts of the world, the succulent nature of the plant makes it a supplementary feed for livestock during dry seasons.
- Green roofing: The drought-resistant characteristics of Vera Jameson stonecrop make it suitable for green roof plantings, helping to insulate buildings and manage stormwater runoff.
- Photography subject: The distinctive morphology and coloration of Vera Jameson stonecrop can be used by photographers to create intriguing and vivid plant portraits.
- Aquatic gardens: While not an aquatic plant, Vera Jameson can be used in the landscaping around ponds and water features for visual interest.
- Erosion control: The spreading habit and robust root system of Vera Jameson stonecrop can help stabilize soil in areas prone to erosion.
- Educational purposes: Vera Jameson stonecrop can be used in educational settings, such as botanical gardens, to teach about drought-tolerant plants and succulent care.
- Nature crafts: The fleshy leaves and colorful flowers can be used in crafting, for example, in living wreaths or as part of floral arrangements.
- Butterfly gardening: The flowers of Vera Jameson stonecrop are attractive to butterflies, adding an ecological benefit to gardens designed to attract wildlife.
- Culinary garnish: While not commonly consumed, the leaves of Vera Jameson stonecrop, when properly identified as safe and non-toxic, might add visual interest as a garnish for adventurous chefs.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sedum 'Vera Jameson' is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sedum 'Vera Jameson' is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: The Hylotelephium 'Vera Jameson', commonly known as Sedum, is recognized for its ability to withstand harsh conditions and drought, which symbolizes resilience in the face of adversity.
- Strength: Sedums have sturdy stems that can support their weight, often growing in poor soil, symbolizing the strength to thrive in challenging environments.
- Adaptability: With its succulent leaves and ability to grow in a variety of climates, the Sedum signifies adaptability and flexibility in life.
- Perseverance: The plant’s tendency to come back strong after being stepped on or damaged is associated with perseverance and the capacity to recover from setbacks.
- Peace: Sedums are commonly used in gardens designed for tranquility and meditation, thus they represent peace and calmness.
WaterSedum 'Vera Jameson', commonly known as stonecrop, requires moderate watering, especially during the active growing season in spring and summer. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot, which typically means watering approximately once a week. When you do water, provide a thorough soaking so that water reaches the root zone. Depending on the size of the container or the garden area, this might mean using up to 1 gallon of water. During the winter or dormant season, reduce watering frequency significantly, only providing minimal moisture to prevent the soil from becoming completely bone dry.
LightStonecrop thrives in full sun conditions where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for Sedum 'Vera Jameson' is in a garden bed or container that is exposed to unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day. If grown indoors, place it near a south-facing window to ensure it gets ample light.
TemperatureStonecrop is quite tolerant of temperature variations and can survive in temperatures as low as 0°F, but prefers the range of 65°F to 75°F for optimal growth. It's important to protect the plant from extreme cold, as prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing can damage or kill the plant.
PruningStonecrop benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. The best time to prune Sedum 'Vera Jameson' is in the early spring before new growth begins. Removing dead or damaged stems and spent flowers also promotes healthier plants. Pruning can be done annually, or as needed, to control size and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Sedum 'Vera Jameson' should be well-draining with a mixture of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite or pumice. A neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.
RepottingSedum 'Vera Jameson' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate growth.
Humidity & MistingSedum 'Vera Jameson' prefers low to moderate humidity levels and is quite drought-tolerant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light; water sparingly.
Outdoor
Full sun to light shade; well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Hylotelephium 'Vera Jameson', commonly known as Sedum 'Vera Jameson', begins with seed germination occurring in spring with appropriate warmth and moisture levels. The seedlings rapidly develop into young plants that exhibit succulent, purple-tinged leaves and a low, spreading growth habit. Throughout the growing season, the plant expands, producing clusters of fleshy leaves along its stems, and in late summer to early fall, it blooms with clusters of dusty pink to mauve flowers that attract pollinators. Once flowering concludes, seeds are produced and dispersed, while the plant's foliage often remains attractive until the first frost. Sedum 'Vera Jameson' is a perennial and will die back to the ground in winter, lying dormant until the following spring when new growth emerges from the roots. Yearly the cycle repeats, with the plant gradually expanding its footprint through creeping stems that root at nodes forming new clumps.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Spring-Early Summer
The Hylotelephium 'Vera Jameson', commonly known as sedum, can be propagated most effectively through stem cuttings. This method is popular due to its simplicity and high success rate. The process involves taking a healthy stem from the parent plant, preferably in the spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. The cutting should be about 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) long and should be allowed to callous for a few days before planting. This cut end is then placed in well-draining soil and kept moderately moist until the cutting has rooted, which typically takes a few weeks. Once rooted, the new sedum plant can be cared for in the same manner as the parent plant.
