Carpet Sedum (Sedum lineare)

Carpet Sedum

Sedum lineare

Needle-like leaves form a dense green mat, softening edges of rock gardens. Low-growing succulent groundcover; common names: Carpet Sedum, Needle Stonecrop.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; tolerates mild shade but may lose compact, dense growth habit in low light
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal growth
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Temperature Hardy to short periods of -10°C; optimal growing temperature ranges from 15–25°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Slender, needle-like bright green leaves arranged in whorls along fleshy stems
  • Flower: Star-shaped pale yellow blooms in dense terminal clusters
  • Stem: Trailing, succulent stems that root easily at nodes when in contact with soil
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; increase frequency slightly during extreme heatwaves

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote compact foliage rather than excessive stem growth

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly over soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve soil drainage without introducing odors or pests
Pruning
  • Trim back leggy stems in early spring to encourage dense, compact new growth
  • Remove spent flower heads after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance
  • Thin overcrowded patches to improve airflow and reduce risk of fungal rot
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no adverse effects from ingestion or contact

Humans: No toxic effects reported for human ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for rock gardens, green roofs, and container edging; erosion control on sloped landscapes