Houseplant of the week: Japanese stonecrop
Why will I love it?
Known for its cute-as-a-button foliage – tornado-like swirls of tiny, glossy, dark green leaves – this little beauty (Sedum makinoi ‘Tornado’) thrives on neglect, making it an excellent choice for busy city dwellers who want to bring a touch of nature indoors, without the stress of lots of maintenance. And, come late spring and early summer, it produces glorious clusters of star-shaped yellow blooms.
Light or shade?
This is a sun-loving succulent, so give it plenty of bright, indirect light to keep its foliage happy and healthy.
Where should I put it?
Its compact size makes it perfect for a shelf near a sunny, south-facing window.
How do I keep it alive?
As with most succulents, this sedum prefers well-draining soil to prevent root rot, so opt for a gritty cactus mix. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between top-ups, and be sure to avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent damage. A dose of balanced fertiliser every few weeks will keep it thriving during the growing season.
Did you know …
The genus name “sedum” is a Latin word meaning “to sit”, which refers to the plant’s low-growing habit – up to a mere 5cm off off the ground.
