How to Grow Autumn Fire Sedum
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Autumn Fire Sedum
Sedum 'Autumn Fire'
flowerAutumn Fire is a striking deciduous sedum hybrid that produces fleshy green foliage in summer, transforming to brilliant orange-red hues in fall. This low-maintenance succulent grows 18-24 inches tall and produces clusters of pink flowers that deepen to red in late summer and fall. It's a favorite for borders, containers, and rock gardens due to its dramatic seasonal color change.
When should you plant Autumn Fire Sedum in your zone?
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Example Autumn Fire Sedum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Autumn Fire 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 Autumn Fire Sedum blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Autumn Fire Sedum dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with the most vibrant fall colors in zones 4-7
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Get my Autumn Fire Sedum timeline →Growth Stages
Spring Emergence
3-4 weeksLow green basal rosettes emerge as temperatures warm; new growth expands from dormant rhizomes
Reduce watering as plant wakes; ensure good drainage. Cut back dead foliage from previous year if not already done.
Summer Growth
8-10 weeksPlant reaches full height (18-24 inches), with dense fleshy green foliage and established clumps; stems elongate and thicken
Water sparingly but consistently. Deadhead spent flower clusters if desired, though leaving them adds interest. No fertilizer needed.
Flowering & Color Change
6-8 weeksDense clusters of pink flowers appear in late July-August at stem tips; foliage begins shifting from green to orange-red as temperatures cool in September
Provide full sun for best color development. Do not deadhead if you want seeds for propagation or wildlife. Reduce watering slightly.
Fall Color Peak
4-6 weeksFoliage transitions to vivid orange-red or crimson; flowers deepen to dark red; plant becomes a stunning focal point in the garden
Minimize watering; plant is dormant. Leave seed heads for winter interest and wildlife food. No pruning yet unless damaged.
Winter Dormancy
8-12 weeksFoliage fades to rust-brown or burgundy; stems persist above ground, providing winter structure; plant dies back completely in coldest zones
Do not water in winter. Leave stems standing for visual appeal and to protect crown from frost and excess moisture. Cut back in early spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove with neem oil spray or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation; divide overcrowded clumps
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Spray with water to dislodge; apply miticide if severe; ensure adequate moisture around plant
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Prevent through excellent drainage, minimal watering, and avoiding wet winters; remove affected plants
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Hand-pick; use copper barriers or diatomaceous earth; remove nearby shelter
Uses
Ornamental garnish
CulinaryWhile not typically eaten, Autumn Fire's fleshy leaves and seed heads are occasionally used in floral arrangements and as dramatic table centerpieces for special events. [source]
Pollinator & bird food
WildlifePink-to-red flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators in late summer. Seed heads provide food for birds through winter and into spring. [source]
Cut flower arrangements
HouseholdAutumn Fire's sturdy stems and colorful foliage and flowers make excellent additions to fall bouquets and dried arrangements; stems last 1-2 weeks in water. [source]
Dried arrangements & wreaths
CraftSeed heads and dried stems retain their structure and color through winter; ideal for crafts, wreaths, and permanent floral displays. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalSedums have a long history in traditional medicine for minor wounds and skin conditions, though scientific evidence is limited. Use only under professional guidance. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Autumn Fire is ornamental; harvest is not typical. Collect seed heads in late fall or early winter for seed propagation. Take stem cuttings in summer for propagation; let cuttings callus for 1-2 days before planting in sandy soil.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Autumn Fire is a hybrid cultivar developed through careful breeding to maximize both the intensity of fall color and flower production; it often shows even more dramatic coloring in cooler climates.
- 🌱 Like all sedums, Autumn Fire is a succulent and stores water in its leaves, making it naturally drought-tolerant and one of the few flowering plants that thrives in poor, dry soil.
- 🌱 The color transformation from green to red is triggered by cooler night temperatures and reduced daylight; the red pigment (anthocyanin) protects the plant from UV stress as it enters dormancy.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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