Sedum, also known as Hylotelephium, is a diverse and resilient plant genus that offers an array of options for gardeners in northern regions. With their adaptability to USDA Zone 3 and a wide range of growth habits, creeping or upright sedums are the perfect choice for any northern garden.
A Large Family
Sedums belong to the stonecrop family, scientifically known as Crassulaceae, which includes a variety of succulent plants. While most sedums have their origins in China, some species are native to North America. For instance, Sedum ternatum, native to areas spanning from Pennsylvania to Arkansas, thrives as far north as Iowa. With over 400 species in the stonecrop family, gardeners have many sedum varieties to choose from, and new ones are introduced every year.
Creeping Sedums: Versatile and Hardy
Creeping sedums are compact groundcovers that grow to a height of 4 to 6 inches, spreading easily. These plants are ideal for planting between stepping stones or on the edge of rock gardens. They are drought-tolerant, adaptable to challenging soils, and rarely require fertilization. Moreover, they offer a beautiful late-summer bloom. Creeping sedums come in a variety of vibrant colors ranging from bright gold to deep purple. One popular favorite is the bright chartreuse ‘Angelina’. Hardy to USDA Zone 3, ‘Angelina’ spreads 1 to 2 feet across, and its foliage turns a stunning orange-gold in the fall. Additionally, it is both rabbit and deer resistant.
Sedum for the Flower Border
Upright sedums are fantastic additions to any sunny flower bed or border. They emerge in the spring with dainty cabbage-like leaves, growing to a height of 1 to 2 feet. The flower heads start off green and gradually transition to shades of pink, rose, russet, and finally brown in late fall. Bees are particularly attracted to most sedum varieties and will frequent them from July through the fall. Butterflies, moths, and even birds will also visit the blooms. Leaving the seedheads standing throughout winter provides a landing spot for snow and offers a source of food for birds.
Newer sedum varieties feature stiffer stems to prevent flopping. These sedums offer a range of stem and foliage colors, including purple, dark red, as well as green or variegated options. Below are just a few sedum cultivars you might find at nurseries or the upcoming Minneapolis Home and Garden Show:
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Sedum ‘Brilliant’: This cultivar showcases huge pink flowerheads on 18-inch-tall stems. As a bee magnet, ‘Brilliant’ also attracts butterflies and turns to a rust color in the fall. It can handle some shade but thrives in full sun.
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Sedum ‘Double Martini’: With maroon stems and olive-colored leaves, ‘Double Martini’ produces attractive pink flowers suitable for cut bouquets. Standing under 18 inches tall, it is a perfect choice for the front of a flower bed, attracting bees, moths, and butterflies.
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Sedum ‘Thunderhead’: Boasting rosy red flowers from midsummer to fall, ‘Thunderhead’ can reach an impressive height of 30 inches. Its red stems and newly emerged leaves with red edges add extra visual interest. ‘Thunderhead’ flourishes in hot, dry locations, even on slopes.
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Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’: Considered a classic sedum for northern regions, ‘Autumn Joy’ grows to about 18 inches tall and produces light pink flowers that age to a rust color in the fall. Leaving the plant standing during winter adds interest to the garden. While it may flop in shady spots, ‘Autumn Joy’ is easy to divide, providing multiple plants from a single purchase.
Conclusion
Selecting several sedum varieties can create an easy-care perennial border that thrives in northern gardens. Don’t miss the opportunity to browse these sedum varieties at the Minneapolis Home and Garden Show in early March. Visit our booth for the chance to stock up on these beautiful and reliable plants. Society members can also enjoy two free tickets to the show. Happy gardening!
Note from MSHS: The sedum varieties listed above will be available for purchase at our booth at the Minneapolis Home and Garden Show in early March. Stop by and stock up! Society members enjoy two free tickets to the show.
Mary Lahr Schier is a Minnesota-based garden writer.