Description
Dragon’s Blood stonecrop offers creeping green-to-burgundy leaves and reddish-pink summer flowers. It typically grows about 4–6 inches tall and 12–24 inches wide, making it a hardy, colorful groundcover. Its texture and color work especially well beside stones or along the edge of a planter.
Growing in Alabama and the Southeast
Plant in a sunny spot with exceptionally good drainage. Most sedums develop their best compact growth and color with plenty of direct sun, although a little afternoon shade can help container plants during extreme Alabama heat. Use gritty potting mix in pots, and improve heavy clay or choose a raised bed outdoors. Avoid wet, poorly drained sites, especially during our humid summers and rainy winters.
Water newly planted specimens enough to establish roots, then allow the soil to dry between waterings. Check pots more often during hot weather, but never leave them standing in water. Avoid routine overhead irrigation and crowding; airflow helps prevent rot in humid conditions. A light spring feeding is generally sufficient. Trim damaged stems or divide established clumps as needed.
Cold tolerance varies by cultivar and site. In Alabama, winter survival is best in freely draining soil; protect container roots from prolonged hard freezes. Stem cuttings can often be rooted in a suitable well-drained medium.
