How to Grow Stonecrop Coral Carpet
Stonecrop Coral Carpet
Sedum spurium 'Coral Carpet'
succulentCoral Carpet is a low-growing, mat-forming succulent with fleshy leaves that display vibrant coral-red coloring, especially in cooler temperatures and full sun. This hardy groundcover spreads via creeping stems and produces delicate pink flowers in summer. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens, containers, and xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance and minimal care requirements.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; highly cold-hardy and excellent for northern climates
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Growth Stages
Establishment
2-3 weeksYoung rosettes are planted and roots establish in well-draining soil
Water lightly 2-3 times weekly for first 2-3 weeks; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsStems elongate and spread horizontally, forming dense mats; leaves deepen in color with sun exposure
Water sparingly once established; allow soil to dry between waterings; fertilizer generally unnecessary
Pre-Flowering
4-6 weeksLeaf color intensifies to coral-red, especially with cool nights and full sun; flower buds begin to form at stem tips
Continue minimal watering; no fertilizer needed; expose to sun for best coloration
Flowering
4-8 weeksDelicate pink to rose-colored flowers bloom in terminal clusters; plant remains compact and colorful
Minimal care needed; flowers attract pollinators; deadheading is optional but can prolong bloom
Dormancy/Winter
3-4 monthsGrowth slows significantly; foliage may take on deeper burgundy or copper tones; plant enters semi-dormant state
Reduce water to minimal amounts; no feeding; excellent cold hardiness protects plant in winter
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; spray with insecticidal soap if infestation is severe; ensure good air circulation
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Prevent with excellent drainage and reduced watering in winter; remove affected plants; amend soil with perlite
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Spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe; improve air circulation
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and
Hand-pick in cool, damp weather; use copper tape barriers; remove garden debris
Uses
Groundcover and Landscaping
CraftIdeal for rock gardens, alpine troughs, container arrangements, living roofs, and border edging. Its spreading habit quickly fills spaces and provides year-round color with minimal maintenance. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifePink flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators in summer, making it a valuable plant for wildlife gardens and pollinator-friendly landscapes. [source]
Xeriscaping and Water Conservation
HouseholdExtreme drought tolerance and minimal watering needs make Coral Carpet an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and sustainable landscaping in arid climates. [source]
Easy Container and Specimen Planting
HouseholdPerfect for shallow pots, bowls, troughs, and living walls due to its shallow root system and compact growth. Provides long-lasting color and requires minimal care. [source]
Harvest Tips
Coral Carpet is an ornamental groundcover, not harvested for food. Trim stems as needed to maintain shape or propagate; the best time to propagate is spring or early summer using stem or leaf cuttings, which root readily in sandy soil.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Sedum spurium 'Coral Carpet' displays remarkable color polymorphism—leaves shift from green in summer to vivid coral-red and burgundy in cooler temperatures and full sun, a natural cold-hardiness response.
- 🌱 A single leaf or stem fragment can regenerate an entire new plant, making propagation so simple that even a fallen leaf left on moist soil will root and grow.
- 🌱 This hardy succulent can survive temperatures well below -30°F (-34°C) and is one of the most cold-tolerant sedums available, thriving where most tender succulents would perish.
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