Species three-leaved stonecrop
white flowers with black anthers, white filaments, lime-pink buds, lime-green leaves and stems

three-leaved stonecrop

Sedum ternatum

Three-leaved stonecrop (Sedum ternatum) is a low-growing, evergreen, succulent plant native to North America. It forms dense mats of fleshy foliage with triangular, serrated leaves that range from light green to yellow-green in color. It produces star-shaped yellow flowers from late spring to midsummer. This tough plant is tolerant of a wide range of soils, from low-nutrient sandy soils to rock gardens, and is an excellent choice for sandy, well-drained sites, where it will thrive with minimal maintenance. Its drought tolerant foliage is also great for xeriscaping, as it requires only occasional watering in dry climates. Three-leaved stonecrop is easily propagated by stem cuttings and will quickly provide a low-maintenance ground cover.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Soil:

Rocky , gravelly , dry, Well-drained

Fruits:

green,yellow Fruits In Summer Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Low

watering

Three-leaved stonecrop should be watered deeply once every 1 to 2 weeks. The amount of water used should be sufficient to allow for a thorough soaking of the soil, but not so much that there is standing water in the pot or tray. To determine if your Sedum ternatum needs water, check the top 1 to 2 inches of soil; if it feels dry, it is time to water. If it feels damp or wet, it is best to give the plant more time before watering.

sunlight

Three-leaved stonecrop (Sedum ternatum) is a shade-tolerant plant species native to the Northeastern United States. It grows best in moist, well-drained soils with partial to full sun exposure. For optimal growth, this plant should receive at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Sunlight should be evenly distributed throughout the day, but morning sunlight is preferred as it allows more time for photosynthesis and helps the plant maintain its shape. In areas with intense summer sun exposure, partial shade in the afternoon will help prevent sunburn and stress on the plant.

pruning

Three-leaved stonecrop (Sedum ternatum) should be lightly pruned every year in late winter or early spring, preferably before new growth begins in early spring. Pruning should be done by removing any dead or damaged leaves and stems. Stems with many flowers should be cut back to a node or basal leaves. Cut back remaining stems to around half their size to encourage new, vigorous growth. This will create a fuller, bushier appearance in the plant. Pruning will also encourage more flowers to form in the next growing season. Overall, light yearly pruning will help keep your 3-leaved stonecrop (Sedum ternatum) looking healthy and lush.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Sedum ternatum typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Sedum ternatum typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Sedum ternatum typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Sedum ternatum typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map