How to Grow Cherry Tart Sedum
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Cherry Tart Sedum
Sedum 'Cherry Tart'
flowerCherry Tart Sedum is a compact, low-growing succulent cultivar known for its deep burgundy-red foliage and vibrant pink-red flowers. This ornamental sedum is prized for its dramatic color contrast and ability to thrive in challenging growing conditions with minimal care. It's an excellent choice for rock gardens, containers, and drought-tolerant landscaping.
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Example Cherry Tart Sedum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Cherry Tart Sedum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Cherry Tart Sedum blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; extremely cold-hardy for a sedum
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Establishment
4-8 weeksYoung plants form tight rosettes with reddish-burgundy leaves; root system develops
Water lightly every 2-3 weeks until established. Protect from excessive moisture. Provide bright light to encourage color development.
Vegetative Growth
Spring through early summerRosettes expand and spread, forming mats or clumps; foliage deepens to dark burgundy-red, especially in cool weather and full sun
Minimal fertilization needed; use diluted succulent fertilizer (half-strength) once or twice during growing season if desired. Remove any dead leaves.
Pre-flowering
Mid to late summerFlowering stems (inflorescences) begin to form at the tips of rosettes; buds develop
Maintain consistent but minimal watering. Ensure full sun exposure for flower development. Do not fertilize heavily or plants may become leggy.
Flowering
Late summer through early fall (6-8 weeks)Showy pink-red to coral-red flower clusters bloom at stem tips; flowers attract pollinators; foliage remains deep burgundy
Continue minimal watering. Flowers persist for 3-4 weeks. Deadheading is optional but can encourage more blooms.
Dormancy/Fall-Winter
Fall through springFlowering ceases; foliage darkens even further in cool temperatures; growth slows dramatically
Reduce watering to almost none. Provide excellent drainage to prevent rot in cold, wet conditions. Hardy to zone 3, so outdoor plants can overwinter.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove infested portions; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure excellent drainage and air circulation. Isolate affected plants.
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Prevent through excellent drainage and minimal watering. If present, repot in fresh, dry soil; allow to dry out completely before watering again. Remove severely affected plants.
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Spray with strong water stream or insecticidal soap. Usually not a major issue on sedums but can occur in spring.
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Increase air circulation; mist lightly if severe. Spray with neem oil if necessary. More common in hot, dry indoor conditions.
Uses
Ornamental garnish
CulinaryWhile not commonly eaten, sedum leaves are technically non-toxic and have been used sparingly as garnish in gourmet cooking for visual appeal. Some sedums are edible but Cherry Tart is primarily grown for ornamental value. [source]
Container and rock garden specimens
HouseholdIdeal for drought-resistant container gardens, living walls, green roofs, rock gardens, and alpine troughs. Requires minimal soil and water, making it perfect for low-maintenance landscapes. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeThe pink-red flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects during late summer and early fall when nectar sources become scarce. Excellent for pollinator gardens. [source]
Propagation and propagule production
CraftCherry Tart Sedum is exceptionally easy to propagate from single leaves or offsets, making it popular for sedum propagation projects, favors, and sharing with gardeners. [source]
Low-maintenance decorative accent
HouseholdThe striking burgundy-red foliage provides year-round color contrast in gardens and containers, requiring virtually no maintenance, fertilizing, or special care once established. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cherry Tart Sedum is not harvested for food. For propagation: detach individual leaves or rosette offsets in spring or summer and lay on well-draining soil; they will root in 2-4 weeks. Flowers can be enjoyed in the garden or cut for arrangements; they last 1-2 weeks in a vase.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Cherry Tart Sedum's deep burgundy coloration intensifies in cooler temperatures and full sun—plants grown in shade or warm conditions will be lighter green and less colorful.
- 🌱 This cultivar is unusually cold-hardy for a sedum, surviving winter outdoors in zone 3 and even some zone 2 microclimates, making it one of the hardiest ornamental sedums available.
- 🌱 A single sedum leaf can generate an entire new plant through leaf propagation—simply place it on moist, well-draining soil and wait 2-4 weeks for roots and a tiny rosette to emerge.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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