Sedum sarmentosum, commonly known as Stringy Stonecrop, Graveyard Moss, or Gold Moss, is a perennial succulent groundcover. It is known for its rapid, mat-forming growth and vibrant chartreuse foliage. The specific epithet sarmentosum refers to the plant’s creeping, spreading habit. This hardy, low-maintenance plant is often chosen for rock gardens, containers, or dry landscape areas.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Stringy Stonecrop prefers bright conditions to maintain its dense, low-growing form. It performs best when receiving at least six hours of full sun daily, though it tolerates partial shade. Too much shade leads to sparser growth and less vibrant color.
Well-draining soil is necessary for this succulent, as its roots are susceptible to rot in soggy conditions. The preferred soil is sandy, rocky, or gritty, similar to a cactus mix, ensuring rapid water runoff. Low fertility soil is beneficial, as nutrient-rich soil encourages weak, overly lush growth. Stringy Stonecrop is cold-tolerant and highly adaptable, surviving through a wide range of temperate climates.
Watering and Feeding Requirements
Care for Stringy Stonecrop reflects its drought-tolerant nature. Use the “soak and dry” method: thoroughly saturate the soil, then wait until the top two to three inches have completely dried out before watering again. This infrequent, deep watering encourages a robust root system and prevents decline caused by excessive moisture around the roots.
Reduce watering significantly during the winter months when the plant enters dormancy, as water absorption slows. Overwatering in cooler temperatures quickly leads to root rot. Fertilization is rarely necessary for Sedum sarmentosum, as it thrives in low-nutrient soil. If a boost is desired, apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer sparingly, typically once in the spring.
Propagation and Management
Stringy Stonecrop is easy to multiply due to its “running” growth habit. The plant produces long, creeping stems, or runners, which readily root at the nodes when they come into contact with the soil. This vegetative propagation is the simplest way to create new plants, often requiring only laying a piece of stem on the soil surface.
Gardeners can also utilize stem cuttings, which should be taken in the spring or early summer before the plant flowers. The cut stems should be allowed to form a protective callus for a day or two before being placed in well-draining soil. Because of its vigorous spread, management through pruning is often necessary to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent the plant from overpowering nearby species. Trimming back overly long or leggy growth keeps the plant contained and encourages a denser, more attractive mat.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Most problems encountered with Stringy Stonecrop are a direct result of improper watering practices. Root rot, characterized by yellowing, mushy stems and leaves, occurs when the soil is kept too wet for too long. The fix involves immediately ceasing all watering and ensuring the plant is in a location with excellent drainage to allow the soil to dry out completely.
Another common issue is etiolation, where the stems stretch and become pale with widely spaced leaves. This is a clear indication that the plant is not receiving enough sunlight and is reaching for a light source. Moving the Stringy Stonecrop to an area that receives at least six hours of direct sun will correct the etiolation, though the stretched growth will not revert. Pests are uncommon, but occasional aphids or mealybugs can be treated with a gentle application of insecticidal soap or a strong jet of water.