Sedum 'Matrona'

Sedum is a genus of succulent, herbaceous perennials with fleshy, flat or rounded leaves depending on the species. In general, the plant is upright and spreads along the ground. The genus has over 300 species, though many have been moved to the genus Hylotelephium. The genus name comes from the Latin word sedeo meaning to sit in reference to the habit of many of the sedums species to sit and sprawl over rocks.

Sedum 'Matrona' is a drought tolerant cultivar with a reputation for vigorous growth and hardiness. Its blossoms and foliage provide interest from early summer into winter with a mass of pink flowers on top of ruby-colored stems and purple leaves that turn bronze in the winter. It is easy to grow and low maintenance. It can be grown as a houseplant, ground cover, or in containers. They are easy to grow indoors with bright direct light from a window or grow light. Use a coarse, well-drained soil, preferably a cactus mix. 'Matrona' also does well grown outdoors in full sun or part shade and well-drained soil. The plant tolerates rocky and poor soils, establishes itself quickly, and is heat tolerant once established. The succulent leaves make it drought and dry soil tolerant. This cultivar attracts butterflies and also tolerates deer and rabbits.

Sedums, as a rule, withstand only light foot traffic. The leaves tend to fall off easily; however, the fallen leaves can be used to propagate new plants.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Slugs and snails. Avoid wet or poorly drained conditions. Taller sedum species with large flower heads are susceptible to flopping. Site in full sun and pinch back in spring to force thicker stems.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti", a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.   

More information on Sedum.