Stolon Stonecrop: A Hardy Ground Cover for Challenging Spots
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that can handle tough growing conditions, stolon stonecrop (Sedum stoloniferum) might catch your eye. This small but mighty succulent has earned a reputation as a reliable ground cover that thrives where other plants might struggle.
What is Stolon Stonecrop?
Stolon stonecrop is a perennial succulent that belongs to the diverse Sedum family. True to its name, this plant spreads through stolons—horizontal stems that creep along the ground and produce new plants. It’s a herbaceous perennial, meaning it dies back to the ground in winter but returns each spring with renewed vigor.
The plant features small, fleshy green leaves that form dense mats, typically reaching 2-4 inches in height but spreading 12-18 inches wide. In summer, it produces clusters of tiny, star-shaped yellow flowers that add a cheerful pop of color to the garden.
Where Does It Come From?
Originally from eastern Asia, including parts of China, Korea, and Russia, stolon stonecrop is not native to North America. However, it has established itself in some areas, particularly in Maine, where it now reproduces on its own in the wild.
Garden Appeal and Design Uses
Stolon stonecrop shines in situations where you need a tough, drought-tolerant ground cover. Here’s where it really earns its keep:
- Rock gardens and alpine settings
- Slopes and banks where erosion control is needed
- Container gardens and green roofs
- Xeriscaping projects
- Areas with poor, rocky soil where other plants struggle
Its low, spreading growth habit makes it excellent for filling gaps between stepping stones or cascading over retaining walls. The plant’s neat, compact appearance works well in both formal and naturalistic garden designs.
Growing Conditions and Care
One of stolon stonecrop’s biggest selling points is its adaptability to challenging conditions. Here’s what it needs to thrive:
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade, though it performs best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil: Well-draining soil is absolutely essential. This plant can handle poor, sandy, or rocky soil but will rot in heavy clay or waterlogged conditions.
Water: Drought tolerant once established. Water regularly during the first growing season, then reduce watering significantly. Overwatering is more harmful than underwatering.
Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 3-8, making it suitable for most temperate climates in North America.
Planting and Maintenance Tips
Getting stolon stonecrop established is refreshingly straightforward:
- Plant in spring or early fall when temperatures are moderate
- Space plants 8-12 inches apart for ground cover use
- Amend heavy clay soil with coarse sand or gravel to improve drainage
- Apply a thin layer of gravel mulch rather than organic mulch
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding
- Deadhead spent flowers if desired, though it’s not necessary for plant health
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
While small, the yellow flowers of stolon stonecrop do provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and other small pollinators during the summer blooming period. The dense mat of foliage can also provide shelter for beneficial insects and small wildlife.
Should You Plant It?
Stolon stonecrop can be a practical choice for challenging garden situations, especially if you’re dealing with poor soil, drought conditions, or steep slopes. However, since it’s not native to North America, consider whether native alternatives might serve your garden better.
Some excellent native ground covers to consider instead include:
- Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) for shaded areas
- Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) for sunny slopes
- Native sedums like Sedum ternatum (wild stonecrop)
- Kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) in acidic soils
If you do choose to grow stolon stonecrop, it’s unlikely to cause problems in most garden settings, as it’s not considered invasive in most areas. Just keep an eye on its spread and be prepared to divide it regularly to keep it in bounds.
The Bottom Line
Stolon stonecrop offers reliable performance in tough conditions with minimal care requirements. While it may not be the most exciting plant in your garden, it certainly earns its keep as a dependable workhorse. Whether you choose this non-native option or opt for a native alternative, the key is selecting plants that match your specific growing conditions and garden goals.
