How to Grow Stormy Weather Sedum
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Stormy Weather Sedum
Sedum 'Stormy Weather'
succulentStormy Weather is a striking hybrid sedum cultivar known for its dramatic dark purple to nearly black foliage that intensifies in cool temperatures and bright light. This low-growing succulent forms compact mounds and produces delicate pink flowers in late summer to fall. It's an excellent choice for rock gardens, containers, and drought-tolerant landscapes.
When should you plant Stormy Weather Sedum in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Stormy Weather Sedum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Stormy Weather 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 Stormy Weather Sedum
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Stormy Weather Sedum dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 3-9; most vibrant color in zones 4-8
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Get my Stormy Weather Sedum timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung rosettes with light purple foliage; plant is establishing root system
Water moderately during first 4-6 weeks after planting; avoid overwatering. Place in bright light to encourage color development.
Vegetative Growth
Spring through summerFoliage deepens in color to dark purple; plant spreads horizontally and fills out
Reduce watering frequency as plant matures. Full sun exposure intensifies dark coloration. Minimal fertilizer needed; use low-nitrogen formula if feeding.
Hardening Off
Fall monthsFoliage turns nearly black as temperatures cool in fall; color is most dramatic
Increased light exposure and cooler nights (50-60°F) trigger the darkest coloration. Continue minimal watering.
Flowering
Late August through OctoberDelicate pink or coral star-shaped flowers appear on terminal clusters; foliage remains dark
Flowers attract pollinators. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooms, or leave for garden interest.
Dormancy
November through FebruaryPlant enters winter dormancy; growth slows significantly; foliage may retain dark color or lighten slightly
Reduce watering to minimal; plant needs little care. Excellent cold hardiness allows outdoor overwintering in zones 3+.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Improve drainage; reduce watering frequency; use well-draining soil mix; repot in fresh soil if affected; allow soil to dry between waterings
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate infected plants; remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab for small infestations
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Increase humidity slightly; spray with water; use miticide or neem oil if severe; improve air circulation
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and
Remove by hand; use copper tape barriers; apply food-grade diatomaceous earth around plants; reduce mulch near stems
Uses
Container and Rock Garden Display
OrnamentalStormy Weather's dramatic dark foliage and compact form make it an exceptional choice for container gardens, alpine troughs, and rock gardens. The color contrast is striking in mixed succulent arrangements. [source]
Drought-Tolerant Groundcover
LandscapingThe low-growing habit and minimal water requirements make it ideal for xeriscaping, living roofs, and dry borders. Creates visually striking groundcover with self-sustaining growth. [source]
Pollinator Food Source
WildlifeLate-season flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators when few other food sources are available. Provides essential nectar for fall migration. [source]
Propagation and Plant Sharing
CraftExtremely easy to propagate from individual leaves or stem cuttings, making it ideal for sharing with gardeners or creating new plants. Cuttings root in 2-3 weeks in appropriate conditions. [source]
Low-Maintenance Living Décor
HouseholdPerfect for desk plants, windowsill displays, and indoor collections. Requires minimal watering, fertilizing, or pest management compared to typical houseplants. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested; grown for ornamental foliage and flowers. Deadhead spent flower clusters in late fall if desired. Can be propagated from leaf or stem cuttings year-round; allow cuttings to callus for 3-5 days before planting in dry succulent mix.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Stormy Weather's dramatic color change is a photoprotective adaptation: the dark purple-black pigments (anthocyanins) develop in response to intense sun and cool temperatures, shielding the plant from UV damage and cold stress.
- 🌱 This sedum can survive temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C), making it one of the hardiest ornamental succulents suitable for zone 3 gardens and high-altitude landscapes.
- 🌱 The plant's fleshy leaves store water, allowing it to survive prolonged droughts of 4-6 weeks or more without supplemental irrigation once established—a valuable trait in water-conscious landscapes.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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