How to Grow Dragon's Blood Sedum
Dragon's Blood Sedum
Sedum spurium 'Dragon's Blood'
succulentDragon's Blood Sedum is a low-growing, spreading succulent groundcover with fleshy leaves that turn deep crimson-red in cool weather and full sun. This hardy perennial produces small pink or red flowers in summer and requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for rock gardens, containers, and xeriscape landscaping. It's highly cold-hardy and drought-tolerant once established.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; most vibrant red coloring develops in zones 3-6
Sign up to see your zone highlighted.
Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksSmall rosettes with green-tinged leaves begin spreading across soil
Water lightly 2-3 times during first month to establish roots. Reduce watering significantly after establishment. Ensure excellent drainage.
Vegetative Growth
Spring through early summerPlant spreads horizontally, developing dense mats of succulent leaves. Green coloring dominates in warm seasons.
Minimal care needed. No fertilizer necessary (rich soil causes weak, leggy growth). Remove any dead leaves.
Color Change
Late summer through fallLeaves gradually shift from green to deep crimson-red, especially in cool fall temperatures and with full sun exposure
Increase sun exposure for best color. Cool temperatures (below 50°F) intensify red pigmentation. Reduce watering further.
Flowering
July-SeptemberSmall pink to red star-shaped flowers appear in terminal clusters above foliage
Flowering occurs with mature plants in full sun. Deadhead spent flowers to redirect energy if desired, though leaving them adds winter interest.
Winter Dormancy
October-MarchGrowth slows dramatically or stops; foliage may remain red or darken further; leaves persist on evergreen stems
Do not water or fertilize. Provide excellent drainage to prevent winter rot. Hardy foliage provides winter interest. Do not prune.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Ensure excellent drainage; reduce watering frequency; use coarse, gritty soil; repot in fresh soil if affected; improve air circulation
-
Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; remove affected leaves; isolate affected plants
-
Increase humidity slightly (occasional misting); spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil if severe; ensure adequate air flow
-
and
Hand-pick, especially at night; use copper barriers; beer traps; reduce soil moisture around plants
Uses
Groundcover & Landscaping
HouseholdDragon's Blood Sedum serves as a low-maintenance, attractive groundcover for rock gardens, alpine troughs, green roofs, borders, and erosion control. Its spreading habit and minimal water needs make it ideal for xeriscaping and sustainable landscape design. [source]
Container & Succulent Garden
HouseholdPerfect for shallow containers, dish gardens, succulent arrangements, and mixed planters. Its compact, trailing form works well in hanging baskets, troughs, and living walls. Requires minimal soil depth (3-4 inches). [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeSmall pink and red flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects during mid-to-late summer. Provides food source when other plants have finished blooming. [source]
Foliage Display & Seasonal Color
CraftDramatic seasonal color change from green to deep crimson provides visual interest in gardens from spring through winter. Cut stems can be used in small floral arrangements or as propagation material. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalSedum species have been used in traditional folk medicine for minor cuts, wounds, and skin conditions. Some species contain compounds with antimicrobial properties, though Dragon's Blood Sedum is primarily grown ornamentally. [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 typically harvested, but leaves and stems can be propagated year-round. Pinch off individual leaves or take 1-2 inch stem cuttings; allow cuts to callus for 2-3 days in dry location, then place on well-draining soil. Mist lightly until roots develop (2-3 weeks). Mature plants can be divided in spring or early fall.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The 'Dragon's Blood' name refers to the deep crimson-red pigmentation that develops in cold weather; these red pigments are anthocyanins that protect the plant from UV damage and cold stress, essentially the plant's natural 'sunscreen' and antifreeze.
- 🌱 Dragon's Blood Sedum is essentially indestructible in well-draining soil — it has survived in alpine climates for millennia and can recover from extreme drought by going dormant; single leaves can regenerate into complete new plants through vegetative propagation.
- 🌱 This plant requires NO fertilizer and actually performs worse in rich soil (becomes lanky and weak); gardeners often succeed with it by doing the least amount of work, making it ideal for busy gardeners, poor soil areas, and even 'black thumb' growers.
Want personalized planting timelines?
Sign up to get frost dates, task lists, and more for your zone.
Get started free