Sedum spectabile ‘Autumn Joy’ has captured our hearts this season. The name says it all. Sedum is a perennial genus of succulents that produce dome-shaped heads resembling broccoli. The spectabile species produce blooms in variegated hues that change as the seasons progress. In summer, clusters of small, pink flowers appear and then graduate to fascinating copper tones in autumn.
Growing Conditions:
Sedum thrives in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. It is a hardy, drought and disease-resistant plant that flourishes in well-drained soil growing to approximately 60cm high by 60cm wide.
Care & Maintenance:
A low-maintenance species, even the aged spectabile blooms provide interest over winter and can be cut back when new growth appears in spring.
In a garden:
Sedums look best when planted en-mass in drifts – groups of 3-5 plants. They look fabulous against a backdrop of grasses and other vertical plantings as shown here along with Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’ and Salvia involucrata ‘Joan’.