Two-row stonecrop
Also known as
Caucasian stonecrop, Creeping stonecrop, Dragon's blood stonecrop
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Two-row stonecrop
Phedimus spurius (syn. Sedum spurium) is a hardy, mat-forming succulent in the stonecrop family (Crassulaceae), prized as a low-maintenance groundcover. Native to the Caucasus region, it spreads via prostrate, rooting stems to form dense carpets of fleshy, opposite leaves arranged in two rows—hence the common name. Leaves are scalloped near the tips and often flush red or bronze in strong sun or cool weather. In early to mid-summer, branched clusters of starry, five-petaled flowers in shades of pink to deep rose hover above the foliage, attracting pollinators. Typically 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) tall, it can spread 12–24 inches (30–60 cm) or more. Exceptional drought tolerance and a preference for lean, sharply drained soils make it ideal for rock gardens, green roofs, and edging. It remains semi-evergreen in mild climates and is notably cold-hardy, adapting to a wide range of conditions as long as drainage is excellent and watering is restrained.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Two-row stonecrop
Water
Allow the substrate to dry out between waterings. In containers, water thoroughly, then wait until the top 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) are completely dry before watering again. In active summer growth, this may be weekly; in cool seasons, reduce drastically. In the ground, established plants often subsist on rainfall, needing supplemental water only during prolonged drought. Avoid waterlogged conditions at all times; standing moisture leads to root rot and leaf melt.
Light
Full sun yields the tightest growth, richest leaf coloration, and best flowering. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct light daily. In hot climates, especially with reflected heat, offer light afternoon shade to prevent scorch. Plants will tolerate bright partial shade, but expect looser growth and fewer blooms. Indoors, place at the sunniest window (south or west) and rotate regularly to maintain even mats; supplement with grow lights if necessary.
Nutrients
A light feeder, Phedimus spurius performs best in lean, well-drained soils with minimal nutrition. In the ground, skip fertilizer or apply a very light, slow-release, balanced product once in spring. For containers, feed at 1/4 strength with a low-nitrogen, balanced liquid fertilizer once in late spring and again in midsummer if growth is pale. Avoid rich, high-nitrogen fertilizers, which cause floppy, weak growth. Do not fertilize in late fall or winter.
Temperature
Exceptionally cold-hardy (roughly USDA Zones 3–9), it tolerates winter lows near −30 °C (−22 °F) when well-drained. It thrives in cool to warm summers but may pause growth in extreme heat; provide airflow and some afternoon shade in hot, humid regions. Keep drier in winter to prevent rot. Container plants are less cold-tolerant than in-ground specimens; protect pots from freeze–thaw cycles by sheltering or insulating them.
