Variegated Kamschatka Stonecrop Sedum kamtschaticum var. kamtschaticum 'Variegatum' (v)
ABOUT
The sedum kamtschaticum 'Variegatum,' commonly known as variegated orange stonecrop, boasts a striking appearance characterized by fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves variegated with creamy white and green patterns. The edges of the leaves may also display a pink to reddish tinge, especially when exposed to full sunlight, which adds to the variegation effect. In the warmer months, the plant produces clusters of star-shaped, yellow flowers that add a bright contrast to the creamy and green foliage. The flowers are appealing to pollinators like bees and butterflies. This variegated orange stonecrop is eye-catching with its mosaic of colors and its succulent leaves that create a lush, textured mat, giving it a unique appeal in rock gardens, borders, and as groundcover. Its variegated foliage and vibrant blooms make it a colorful addition to any garden space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Crassulaceae
Synonyms
Variegated Russian Stonecrop, Variegated Orange Stonecrop, Variegated Kamschatka Stonecrop
Common names
Phedimus kamtschaticus var. kamtschaticus 'Variegatum'.
ToxicityTo humans
Variegated Orange Stonecrop is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Accidental ingestion of this plant is not likely to cause poisoning. However, it is still advisable not to eat any part of ornamental plants.
To pets
Variegated Orange Stonecrop is regarded as non-toxic to pets. This means that if pets like cats or dogs accidentally ingest parts of this plant, they are unlikely to experience poisoning symptoms. Despite its safety, monitoring pets around houseplants is still recommended.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
12 inches (30 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Russia
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought Tolerance: Can survive in dry conditions, needing minimal watering once established.
- Low Maintenance: Requires little care beyond basic watering and occasional trimming.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
- Erosion Control: Ideal for slopes or banks as it helps in preventing soil erosion.
- Ground Cover: Spreads effectively, covering ground quickly to suppress weeds.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Features colorful variegated foliage and vibrant yellow flowers for visual interest.
- Winter Interest: Some foliage may persist in mild winters, providing color in otherwise barren landscapes.
- Edging Plant: Suitable for borders or pathways due to its compact growth habit.
- Rock Gardens: Adapts well to rocky soils, perfect for rock garden settings.
- Hardy: Tolerant of cold temperatures, surviving in USDA zones 3 through 9.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ground cover for green roofs: Its low-growing, spreading habit helps cover rooftops, providing insulation and reducing heat absorption.
- Alpine and rock gardens: Its adaptability to poor soil makes it a great choice for creating visual interest in rocky landscapes and alpine garden designs.
- Butterfly attraction: Variegated Sedum may attract butterflies and other pollinators, enhancing biodiversity in a garden.
- Soil erosion control: Because it forms a dense mat, Variegated Sedum can be effective at stabilizing slopes and preventing soil erosion.
- Living walls: The plant can be used in vertical gardening, adding aesthetic value and variety to living wall installations.
- Container gardens: Adaptable to being potted, it adds color and texture to mixed container displays or standalone pots.
- Ground cover in pet-friendly gardens: It's a sturdy choice that can withstand some foot traffic from pets.
- Crack filler: Can be planted in cracks of paving stones or dry-stacked walls, providing a natural, rustic look.
- Photography: With its interesting variegated foliage, it serves as a unique subject for botanical photography.
- Fairy gardens: Its small, delicate appearance makes it ideal for creating whimsical fairy garden landscapes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Variegated Stonecrop is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Variegated Stonecrop is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Sedum kamtschaticum var. kamtschaticum, commonly known as Variegated Kamchatka Stonecrop, is known for its hardy and robust nature, able to survive in poor soil and harsh conditions. Thus, it often symbolizes resilience and the ability to thrive in difficult situations.
- Adaptability: This plant's capacity to adapt to various sunlight exposures and its drought tolerance reflects the symbolic meaning of adaptability and flexibility in life's circumstances.
- Resourcefulness: Due to its succulent characteristics that allow it to retain water, it symbolizes resourcefulness and the smart utilization of available resources.
- Persistence: The Variegated Kamchatka Stonecrop's growth habits, spreading steadily and persistently, make it symbolic of determination and persistence.
- Longevity: As a perennial plant that comes back year after year, it signifies longevity and permanence.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, the lush and abundant growth of succulents like Sedum signifies prosperity and wealth.
WaterVariegated Orange Stonecrop should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out partially between watering sessions, as it is drought-tolerant. Typically, this means watering every 7 to 10 days during active growth in the spring and summer, depending on the local climate and weather conditions. Reduce watering frequency in the fall and winter when the plant is dormant. Water directly at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, using approximately half a gallon for mature plants in a standard garden setting each time you water. Adjust the amount based on the size of the plant and the pot, ensuring you provide enough water to moisten the entire root zone.
LightVariegated Orange Stonecrop thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. However, in particularly hot climates, some afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorch or excessive stress on the plant. The ideal spot is where the morning sun is plentiful, with some protection from the harsher afternoon rays.
TemperatureVariegated Orange Stonecrop can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from freezing to hot weather, making it quite hardy. It is capable of surviving in temperatures as low as -30°F and can handle heat above 90°F but performs best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F. To prevent damage, it's crucial to avoid sudden temperature changes or exposure to extreme cold without adequate protection.
PruningPruning Variegated Orange Stonecrop is necessary to maintain its shape, encourage denser growth, and remove any dead or damaged foliage. The best time to prune is in early spring just before new growth begins. Lightly trim back the plant to promote a more compact form and remove any winter damage. Pruning every year or every other year is typically sufficient.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Variegated Orange Stonecrop, commonly known as Variegated Russian Stonecrop, should be well-draining with a gritty composition, such as a combination of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite. The soil pH should ideally be slightly acidic to neutral, in the range of 6.0 to 7.5.
RepottingVariegated Russian Stonecrop should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth. Spring is the ideal time to repot this succulent.
Humidity & MistingVariegated Russian Stonecrop prefers a dry to average humidity level, consistent with its drought-tolerant nature. High humidity should be avoided to prevent rot and fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, water sparingly, allow soil to dry.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade, well-drained soil, drought-tolerant.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleVariegated Kamtschaticum Sedum, also known as Variegated Orange Stonecrop, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in spring when soil temperatures and moisture levels are appropriate. After germination, it develops a rooting system and a small rosette of variegated leaves in the juvenile phase. As the plant matures, it forms a thick mat of succulent foliage and in the early summer, it starts to produce bright yellow flowers that attract pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules that eventually dry and release seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. During the autumn, the plant may die back slightly, but due to its perennial nature, it will regrow from the root system in the following spring. Variegated Kamtschaticum Sedum is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions and, once established, will continue this life cycle for many years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
Propogation: The Variegated Orange Stonecrop can be effectively propagated by taking leaf cuttings, a common and simple method. To do this, select a healthy leaf and gently twist it from the stem, ensuring a clean break. The leaf can then be placed on top of a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, bright location without direct sunlight. In a few weeks, the leaf will develop roots and eventually new growth. It's important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during this process to encourage root growth without causing the cutting to rot.
