How to Grow Dragon's Blood Sedum
Dragon's Blood Sedum
Sedum spurium 'Dragon's Blood'
succulentDragon's Blood Sedum is a low-growing, mat-forming succulent known for its deep red to burgundy foliage, especially in cool seasons and full sun. This hardy, drought-tolerant groundcover produces small pink or red flowers in summer and spreads via creeping stems. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens, containers, and xeriscaping.
When should you plant Dragon's Blood Sedum in your zone?
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Example Dragon's Blood Sedum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Dragon's Blood 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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Harvest Dragon's Blood Sedum
Around Apr 18≈ 1 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Dragon's Blood Sedum dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; very cold hardy and tolerant of heat
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Get my Dragon's Blood Sedum timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksNew plantlets develop roots and begin spreading. Foliage is green with red tinting.
Water moderately for first 2-3 weeks after planting to encourage root development. Ensure excellent drainage.
Vegetative Growth
Spring through early fallPlant fills out and spreads via creeping stems. Foliage deepens in color with increased sun exposure.
Water only when soil is completely dry. Remove any dead or diseased stems. Full sun intensifies red coloration.
Flowering
6-8 weeksSmall pink to red flowers appear in clusters above the foliage, typically in mid to late summer.
Flowers are attractive to pollinators. No deadheading required; flowers persist briefly and fade naturally.
Winter Dormancy
November through MarchPlant enters dormancy; foliage darkens to deep burgundy or maroon. Growth slows significantly.
Reduce watering to minimal levels. Do not fertilize. Cold temperatures intensify red color. Plant is fully hardy and frost tolerant.
Year-Round Maintenance
OngoingSedum requires minimal ongoing care; it maintains its mat-forming habit and attractive appearance throughout the year.
Divide or trim back every 2-3 years if it becomes too dense. Remove any debris collected in the mat.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve air circulation; remove affected leaves
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Ensure excellent drainage; reduce watering frequency; repot in fresh, dry soil if severe
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and
Remove by hand; use copper tape around containers; apply diatomaceous earth around base
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Spray with water; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if persistent
Uses
Groundcover and Ornamental Landscaping
HouseholdDragon's Blood Sedum is ideal for rock gardens, alpine troughs, green roofs, and drought-tolerant landscapes. Its low-growing mat provides year-round visual interest with color changing in response to temperature and light. [source]
Container and Terrarium Gardening
CraftIts compact size and minimal water needs make it perfect for succulent arrangements, living picture frames, and terrariums. Propagates easily from individual leaves, making it ideal for sharing with gardeners. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeSummer flowers attract bees and beneficial insects. Provides habitat for ground-dwelling insects and offers food during blooming season. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalSedum species have been used in traditional medicine systems; however, Dragon's Blood Sedum is primarily ornamental. Consult herbalists before medicinal use. [source]
Low-Maintenance Ground Cover for Difficult Sites
HouseholdThrives in poor soil, between pavers, on rocky slopes, and other sites where conventional plants struggle. Requires no fertilizer, pesticides, or frequent watering once established. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not harvested for food. Propagate by division in spring or fall: remove rosettes and allow to callus for 1-2 days, then plant in dry soil. Can also propagate from individual leaves placed on dry soil. Trim back stems anytime to control spread or rejuvenate old plants.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Dragon's Blood Sedum changes color dramatically with temperature and sunlight: bright green in shade and cool spring weather, deepening to burgundy or blood-red in full sun and cold winters.
- 🌱 The plant is nearly impossible to kill; it can survive on minimal water, poor soil, extreme heat, and temperatures well below zero, making it one of the hardiest ornamental succulents.
- 🌱 Individual leaves can be propagated by simply laying them on dry soil; they will root and grow into new plants, making this an excellent project for children learning about plant biology.
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