As a gardening enthusiast, I’ve found that sedum is like the unsung hero of ground covers. Whether you’re after colors or a more serene, green vibe, sedum has it all.
I’ve spent countless hours in my garden, marveling at how these hardy plants thrive in just about any condition.
But not all sedum varieties are created equal! Some have the potential to take over, while others might need a little extra TLC.
Let me walk you through 15 of my favorite sedum picks, plus a few I’ve learned to avoid—because every garden deserves a little drama-free peace!
1. Sedum ‘Dragon’s Blood’
Picture a carpet that turns crimson under the sun. That’s ‘Dragon’s Blood’. A favorite among gardeners, this sedum offers a dramatic hue shift with seasons.
Known for its red leaves, it’s an eye-catcher in any garden. Easy to grow, it’s a forgiving plant for beginners. Not only does it cover ground effectively, but it also adds an exotic touch.
Avoid planting in overly wet areas to ensure it stays healthy. Its resilience in drought conditions makes it quite the survivor.
2. Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’
The garden’s autumn superstar doesn’t need an introduction, but ‘Autumn Joy’ deserves all the praise. As summer fades, its pink flowers take the stage.
This sedum is cherished for its late bloom and stamina. It transitions from green buds to rosy blooms gracefully. It’s a social plant, mingling well with others.
Give it room to breathe, and it’ll reward you with a spectacle. A must-have for those looking to extend their garden’s color show into the cooler months.
3. Sedum ‘Angelina’
Imagine a bright patch of sunshine on the ground—that’s ‘Angelina’. This low-growing sedum is famed for its golden foliage. It conjures warmth even in the chilliest of days.
Perfect for rocky gardens where its colors truly pop. When winter arrives, it surprises with a hint of orange. Prized for its hardiness, ‘Angelina’ requires little pampering.
It’s a garden’s loyal companion, adapting to almost any condition. Ideal for those who prefer low-maintenance yet striking plants.
4. Sedum ‘Vera Jameson’
A dash of elegance wrapped in purples and pinks. ‘Vera Jameson’ doesn’t just fill the ground; it elevates it. This sedum is a favorite for its color contrast and grace.
The purples play well against its soft pink blooms. It’s a plant that thrives in sunlit spots. Though dainty, it’s tougher than it looks.
A bit of space and good soil are its only demands. ‘Vera Jameson’ can be a garden’s gentle whisper amid louder voices.
5. Sedum ‘Dazzleberry’
Prepare to be wowed. ‘Dazzleberry’ is not your average ground cover. Its deep purple leaves set the stage for its large, vivid pink flowers.
Unforgettable in any landscape, it demands attention. Gardeners adore its bold statement and low-growing nature. Perfect for edges where it can display its flair.
Despite its showy nature, it’s easy-going. Regular trimming keeps it in line and encourages more blooms. For those who love surprises, ‘Dazzleberry’ is a treat.
6. Sedum ‘Red Carpet’
A seamless spread of red makes ‘Red Carpet’ a fitting name. This ground cover spreads effortlessly, creating a bold statement.
Ideal for those tricky spots where grass refuses to thrive. Its tiny, round leaves form a dense mat. Keeping weeds at bay and moisture in check is its forte.
While it loves sunlit areas, partial shade works too. Pair it with other ground covers for a dynamic look. Maintenance is a breeze with this easy-going plant.
7. Sedum ‘Golden Carpet’
A touch of gold on the ground can transform any garden. ‘Golden Carpet’ is exactly that, offering a bright alternative to traditional greens.
Its cheerful hue stands out in rock gardens and borders. Not just a pretty face, it’s tough in challenging conditions.
This sedum is a favorite for sunny spots where its color shines brightest. Though small, it packs a punch with its dense growth. Perfect for gardeners seeking a pop of color year-round.
8. Sedum ‘Neon’
When subtlety isn’t on the menu, ‘Neon’ delivers. Its vivid pink flowers are a showstopper against its green backdrop. This sedum is adored for its striking blossoms that seem to glow.
A delight for summer gardens, it invites admiration. Despite its flashy appearance, it’s straightforward to care for.
Sun and well-drained soil keep it happy. With a touch of pruning, it maintains its shape. Perfect for those who enjoy bold colors and minimal fuss.
9. Sedum ‘Blue Spruce’
It might not be a tree, but ‘Blue Spruce’ borrows its color palette. This sedum mimics the famous conifer with its blue-green needles.
A nod to alpine gardens, it’s a hardy performer. Ideal for those looking for texture and color. It spreads quickly, covering space efficiently.
No fussing required, making it a gardener’s joy. While adaptable, it thrives in sunny, well-drained spots. A perfect addition to rock gardens or as a serene contrast to more vibrant plants.
10. Sedum ‘Creeping Jenny’
A name like ‘Creeping Jenny’ suggests stealth, but this sedum is anything but hidden. It cascades gracefully, filling in gaps with ease.
Known for its rounded green leaves, it’s a favorite for garden edges. Perfect for softening hard lines or spilling over containers. It’s a team player, coexisting with other plants.
Watering needs are minimal, making it a low-maintenance choice. In the right conditions, it rewards you with a lush, green carpet.
11. Sedum ‘Purple Emperor’
Royalty in the garden comes clad in purple. ‘Purple Emperor’ wears its crown with pride. Known for its regal dark leaves and pink blooms, it commands attention.
This sedum is ideal for adding depth and drama. It thrives in sunny spots, preferring a bit of space to spread its wings. Despite its noble appearance, it’s approachable.
Easy to care for, it asks for little but offers much. A stunning choice for those seeking elegance with minimal effort.
12. Sedum ‘Cherry Tart’
A tart treat for the eyes, this sedum is a feast of colors. ‘Cherry Tart’ is celebrated for its compact red foliage. It’s a standout in any garden, providing a lively punch.
This variety is perfect for borders or pots where its colors can shine. Despite its sweet name, it’s tough as nails.
Resilient in various conditions, it’s a gardener’s delight. Minimal watering and an occasional trim keep it happy. An exciting choice for color enthusiasts.
13. Sedum ‘Lemon Coral’
Bright and cheerful, ‘Lemon Coral’ brings zest to any garden. Its lime green foliage lights up sunny spots. This sedum is known for its dense, low-growing nature.
Perfect for gardeners seeking an unusual hue. It’s adaptable, thriving in various conditions. While it loves the sun, some shade doesn’t hurt.
Maintenance is simple, with minimal watering and occasional pruning. A delightful addition for those experimenting with color and texture.
14. Sedum ‘Sieboldii’
Sedum ‘Sieboldii’ is a charming ground cover with blue-green leaves edged in pink. Its pink flowers bloom in fall, adding a splash of color. This sedum thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it perfect for rock gardens or containers.
Its compact form and attractive foliage make it an ideal choice for borders or pathways, where its unique leaf color can be appreciated. Regular watering during dry spells will help maintain its vibrant appearance.
This sedum is a magnet for butterflies, enhancing the garden’s ecological appeal. It’s highly drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal care to flourish.
15. Sedum ‘Matrona’
Elegance is timeless, as ‘Matrona’ proves. Known for its tall, sturdy stems and pink flowers, it stands proud. This sedum adds height and structure to gardens.
Despite its strong appearance, it’s gentle in care. It enjoys sun-drenched areas and well-drained soil. A graceful addition to borders where it can show off.
It’s a favorite among those who value form and function. With ‘Matrona’, a garden gains poise and charm.
16. Sedum ‘Ogon’
While many sedums charm with resilience, ‘Ogon’ requires a keen eye. Its yellow leaves brighten shaded areas but can struggle in harsh conditions.
This variety is known for its sensitivity to overwatering. Gardeners need to strike a balance with its care. It offers a unique look but demands attention.
If you’re ready for a challenge, ‘Ogon’ can be rewarding. Its delicate nature can be both its strength and its downfall.
17. Sedum ‘Mediovariegatum’
Variegation brings a unique flair, but ‘Mediovariegatum’ can be finicky. Its mix of creams and greens is eye-catching but needs careful placement.
This sedum prefers well-drained areas and not-too-harsh sunlight. It’s not as forgiving as other sedums, demanding more attention.
For those willing to pamper, it offers a distinctive touch. However, it’s best avoided by beginners. ‘Mediovariegatum’ can be a garden’s standout feature or a frustrating endeavor.
18. Sedum ‘Chocolate Ball’
A tempting name, but ‘Chocolate Ball’ isn’t as sweet as it sounds. Known for its dark, chocolatey leaves, it presents a challenge.
It doesn’t handle cold snaps well, which can be a drawback. Gardeners need to be cautious, providing shelter during extremes. Its rich color is a boon for those craving contrast.
However, it’s not for the faint-hearted. It demands commitment and care to thrive. For those prepared, it offers a rich visual treat.
19. Sedum ‘Fuldaglut’
Promises of lush ground cover can be alluring, but ‘Fuldaglut’ tests patience. Its red-tinged leaves are beautiful but can be temperamental.
It’s susceptible to overwatering and poor drainage. This sedum requires a precise care routine, challenging even seasoned gardeners. While it can create stunning displays, it needs commitment.
Best left to those with experience, ‘Fuldaglut’ is a mixed bag. A rewarding challenge for those willing to go the extra mile.
20. Sedum ‘Limelight’
Bright and alluring, ‘Limelight’ catches the eye but not without demands. Its lime green foliage can brighten spots, but it wilts easily.
This variety needs careful attention to soil and moisture levels. While captivating, it’s not as robust as its peers. Gardeners need to be vigilant, adjusting care with conditions.
It’s a plant of contrasts, offering beauty and challenge. For the dedicated, ‘Limelight’ can be a luminous addition. But for those seeking ease, think twice before planting.