Mexican Stonecrop (Sedum mexicanum)

Mexican Stonecrop

Sedum mexicanum

Tight trailing succulent with golden foliage, a sun-loving groundcover. Evergreen succulent; common name: Mexican Sedum.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; bright direct light maintains vibrant golden foliage color, tolerates light shade in hot climates
💧
Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Hardy to -5°C for short cold periods; optimal active growth at 15–28°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, fleshy, teardrop-shaped golden-green leaves clustered along trailing stems
  • Flower: Star-shaped yellow blooms in flat-topped terminal clusters
  • Stem: Slender, trailing stems that root at nodes when in contact with moist soil
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

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

Fertilization

Diluted balanced succulent feed every 4 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface; avoid direct contact with leaves to prevent potential burning
Pruning
  • Pinch back leggy stems to encourage bushier, compact growth
  • Remove dead or yellowed leaves to maintain a tidy appearance and improve airflow
  • Trim overgrown trailing stems in early spring to refresh the plant and promote new growth
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no adverse effects reported for cats

Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for handling and accidental ingestion in small amounts

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for rock gardens, trailing ornamental for hanging baskets, container filler