Autumn Joy Sedum

The Hylotelephium 'Autumn Joy' (Stonecrop) is prized for its ability to bring late-season color and texture to gardens. This perennial forms upright clumps of succulent, gray-green foliage that reaches 1.5 to 2 feet in height and width. The large, flattened flower heads, which start as rosy pink buds and transition to deep rose-red, provide a striking display from late summer into fall. As the season progresses, the blooms turn a coppery-rust color, offering extended seasonal interest even as they dry on the plant.

Stonecrop is well-suited to USDA Zones 3 to 9 and thrives in full sun with dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil. Its tolerance for drought, dry soils, and rocky conditions makes it an excellent choice for gardens with poor soil or minimal irrigation.

Stonecrop is a versatile plant that provides bold, late-season color and texture to many garden designs. Some popular uses include:

• Rock Gardens: Stonecrop thrives in rocky, well-drained soils, making it perfect for rock gardens where its fleshy foliage and colorful blooms stand out.
• Borders: Use in sunny borders for a pop of fall color and texture, especially when combined with other late-season bloomers.
• Containers: Stonecrop’s drought tolerance and compact growth make it an excellent choice for container gardens, where it can serve as a focal point or complement other drought-tolerant plants.
• Pollinator Gardens: The late-season flowers attract butterflies, adding ecological value to pollinator-friendly landscapes.
• Specimen Planting: Its bold, succulent foliage and large flower heads make it a standout specimen in garden beds or as part of a grouping.

Stonecrop is an easy-to-care-for perennial that thrives in well-drained soils and full sun. Follow these care tips to ensure the best performance:

• Planting Location: Choose a spot with full sun and well-drained soil. Stonecrop thrives in sandy or gravelly soils of moderate to low fertility. It tolerates poor soils but requires good drainage to prevent rot.
• Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots. Once established, stonecrop is highly drought-tolerant and only needs occasional watering during dry periods.
• Pruning: Deadheading is generally unnecessary, as the dried flower heads provide winter interest. However, plants may be cut back in late spring to control height and encourage bushier growth.
• Dividing: Divide clumps every 3-4 years in spring to maintain plant vigor and prevent overcrowding.
• Fertilizing: Avoid over-fertilizing, as rich soils can cause the plant to grow too tall and flop. A light application of compost in spring is usually sufficient.