The Gold Moss Sedum (Sedum acre ‘Aureum’) is a mat-forming succulent groundcover. This evergreen perennial is known for its dense, moss-like carpet of tiny, fleshy leaves that feature a bright, yellow-green coloration, especially on the newest growth. It thrives in poor conditions, making it a low-maintenance choice for covering difficult, sunny areas. The plant’s low-growing habit and vibrant color bring a golden texture to rock gardens, between pavers, and along borders.
Ideal Conditions for Growth
Gold Moss Sedum performs best when planted in full sun, which is necessary for the foliage to achieve its brightest golden-yellow tips. While it prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, the plant can tolerate partial afternoon shade. Shade is particularly helpful in climates with intense summer heat, as it helps prevent scorching. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9, allowing it to withstand a wide range of temperatures.
Excellent drainage is paramount for this succulent. Gold Moss Sedum thrives in lean, poor to moderately fertile soil, such as sandy, rocky, or gritty substrates. It can tolerate a slightly acidic to neutral pH range, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. Incorporating materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand into the planting site will ensure the fast-draining environment necessary to prevent root rot.
Routine Watering and Feeding Requirements
As a succulent, Gold Moss Sedum is drought-tolerant once established in the landscape. Supplemental watering is necessary when the top two inches of soil have completely dried out, which may be infrequent depending on local rainfall. Overwatering is the most common cause of failure, as excessive moisture can quickly lead to stem and root rot.
New plantings benefit from regular watering during the first few weeks to encourage root establishment. Mature plants store enough moisture in their fleshy leaves to sustain them through brief periods of dryness. Since this sedum species thrives in nutrient-poor conditions, it rarely requires fertilizer. Applying a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer sparingly once in the spring is sufficient if growth appears stunted, but rich soil and over-fertilizing can lead to weak, leggy growth.
Propagation and Troubleshooting Common Issues
Gold Moss Sedum is easy to propagate, primarily through stem cuttings or division. Pieces of the stem can be broken off and pressed directly into the soil where they will root. This natural ability to root from stem fragments means the plant often spreads on its own, quickly forming a dense, self-seeding mat.
Root rot occurs in poorly drained or consistently wet soil environments. Ensuring the gritty soil mix and avoiding overwatering prevents this issue. Gold Moss Sedum resists most pests, but occasional problems may arise from slugs, snails, or mealybugs. Slugs and snails can be managed through traps, while mealybugs are treated with a targeted application of horticultural soap. Furthermore, this stonecrop is naturally resistant to browsing from deer and rabbits.