How to Grow Olive Ball Sedum
Olive Ball Sedum
Sedum burrito var. burrito or Sedum 'Olive Ball'
succulentOlive Ball Sedum is a compact, ball-shaped succulent with small, fleshy olive-green leaves that cluster densely on trailing or mounding stems. This drought-tolerant plant is prized as an ornamental for containers, rock gardens, and hanging baskets, offering year-round visual interest with minimal care requirements.
When should you plant Olive Ball Sedum in your zone?
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Example Olive Ball Sedum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Olive Ball 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 Olive Ball Sedum
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; can be grown as a container plant indoors or moved indoors in cooler climates
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Get my Olive Ball Sedum timeline →Growth Stages
Rooting & Establishment
1-3 weeksNewly propagated or transplanted sedum establishing roots; leaves may appear slightly stressed or dull
Keep soil barely moist for 1-2 weeks, then switch to normal sparse watering. Provide bright indirect light initially, then gradually introduce full sun to avoid sunscald.
Vegetative Growth
Several monthsPlant develops new leaf clusters and stems; foliage is olive-green and compact
Maintain full sun exposure for dense, colorful growth. Water when soil is completely dry. No fertilizer needed, but a diluted low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer (once monthly in spring) can support vigor.
Dormancy
3-4 months (fall-winter)Growth slows significantly; leaves may develop deeper coloration and a waxy coating
Reduce watering dramatically. Minimal fertilizing. Keep temperatures cool (50-60°F if possible) to promote dormancy and vibrant color. Allow plant to rest.
Flowering
1-2 months (spring)Small star-shaped yellow or pink flowers appear on flower spikes, typically at stem ends
Flowering is less predictable indoors but may occur in spring if dormancy conditions are met. Maintain regular sparse watering and do not fertilize heavily, as this encourages leaf growth over blooms.
Propagation Readiness
Ongoing once matureMature plant with healthy leaves that can be easily detached and propagated
Propagate from leaf cuttings or stem cuttings in spring or early summer. Allow cut surfaces to callus over for 3-5 days before placing in dry succulent soil.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with 70% isopropyl alcohol or neem oil every 7-10 days until controlled; remove heavily infested leaves
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil for severe infestations
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Increase air circulation; spray with neem oil or miticide if infestation is severe
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Reduce watering immediately; repot into fresh, dry soil if rot is detected; trim away blackened roots
Uses
Container & Hanging Basket Decoration
HouseholdOlive Ball Sedum's compact, ball-shaped form makes it ideal for decorative pots, succulent gardens, and hanging baskets. Its trailing habit and year-round olive-green foliage provide long-lasting visual appeal indoors or on patios. [source]
Low-Maintenance Indoor Houseplant
HouseholdWith minimal watering and feeding requirements, Olive Ball Sedum is perfect for busy gardeners or indoor environments. It thrives on neglect and does not require regular pruning or deadheading. [source]
Propagation & Collectors' Plant
CraftOlive Ball Sedum propagates readily from individual leaves or stem cuttings, making it a rewarding plant for hobby propagators and succulent collectors looking to expand their collections. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeWhen the plant flowers, its small star-shaped blooms attract bees and other beneficial pollinators, contributing to garden biodiversity. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalLike many Sedum species, Olive Ball Sedum leaves contain compounds traditionally used in folk medicine for wound healing and skin health, though evidence is limited and use is not FDA-approved. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Olive Ball Sedum is not harvested but rather maintained. For propagation, gently remove individual healthy leaves or cut 2-3 inch stem segments from the plant in spring or early summer. Allow cuts to dry for 3-5 days, then place on top of dry succulent soil. Mist lightly once per week until tiny rosettes form (3-4 weeks); then water sparingly.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Olive Ball Sedum is also known as 'Burro's Tail' or 'Lamb's Tail' when referring to related Sedum burrito varieties, though 'Olive Ball' refers to the more compact, ball-shaped cultivar.
- 🌱 Sedums are CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) plants, meaning they open their stomata at night to conserve water—an adaptation that makes them exceptional drought survivors.
- 🌱 A single leaf from an Olive Ball Sedum can generate a completely new plant within 3-4 weeks, making it one of the easiest succulents to propagate and share.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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