Stonecrop Sedum 'Touchdown Teak'

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 'Touchdown Teak' is a vigorous, hardy, drought tolerant cultivar that maintains a compact and erect habit with multiple flower heads that do not tend to flop. The plant boasts red-brown to purple glossy leaves, red stems, and rose-red flowers. Its interesting color makes it a great choice for the back of a border, walkway, rock garden, or cottage garden. 'Touchdown Teak' typically grows to 1 to 2 feet high with an equal spread. Its blossoms and foliage provide interest from early summer into winter. It is easy to grow and low maintenance. It can be grown as a houseplant, ground cover, or in containers. If grown indoors, use bright direct light from a window or grow light and a coarse, well-drained soil, preferably a cactus mix. 'Touchdown Teak' 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. Hardy and disease resistant. Avoid wet or poorly drained conditions.

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

More information on Sedum.