Sedum "Autumn Joy" 101
Sedum "Autumn Joy" should be in your fall containers and garden.
As the name implies it is perfect for this time of year. Blooming in the late summer heat and into fall in most zones.
"Autumn Joy" is perennial plant also known as Stonecrop.
It is a succulent by virtue of its thick leaves which retain water and it couldn't be easier to grow.
Hardy in blistering SoCal September heat to -30F, Sedum "Autumn Joy" is a workhouse of a plant.
When low maintenance & beauty combine it should be embraced - hug this plant! Not that it needs hugs or much of any attention.
Pop this perennial into a container or straight into your garden beds and you can pretty much ignore it.
Sedum "Autumn Joy" needs only occasional water, full sun & well drained soil. Not too much to ask for in exchange for all that no nonsense beauty.
Sedum Autumn Joy - plant traits
- perennial
- Fleshy leaves that retain water
- drought tolerant
- upright growth
- grows in a clump approx 1' x 3' tall & wide
- light green leaves
- dark pink fading to copper/bronze colored flower
- attracts butterflies
Sedum Autumn Joy - plant care
- prefers average to poor well drained soil
- full sun
- moderate to little water once established
- leave seed head in winter for interest & bird food
- remove seed heads in spring when new growth appears
- divide every 3- 4 years to maintain compact growth
For more on dividing perennials read here.
Sedum "Autumn Joy" is a pleasure to grow. It mixes well with a variety of drought tolerant plants & grasses, such as Lavender, Blue Oat Grass, Fountain Grass, New Zealand Flax, Hens & Chicks and other succulents.
At 1-3 feet tall best in the front or middle of a border garden if planted directly in the garden.
As a container plant, it can be the tall focal point in a low arrangement or the mid-sized plant encircling a fountain grass or similar tall wispy plant. I would added in some small succulents as well. Think I am going to try this combination this fall!
Make your life easier and your garden beautiful this fall & for years to come, plant Sedum "Autumn Joy"!
** Kelly **