Sedum Flowers
Sedum Flowers Photos And Facts
Name : Sedum Flowers
Latin Name : Genus: Sedum, (Sedum acre)
Sedum Description
Sedum is a large genus comprising of about 400 species of leaf succulents, found throughout the northern hemisphere belonging to the Crassulaceae Family.
Common names include Sedum, Betty's bustle and Stonecrop. The variety Sedum acre is commonly known as Goldmoss Stonecrop, Goldmoss Sedum, Biting Stonecrop and Wallpepper; while the variety Sedum reflexum goes by the common names Prickmadam, Stone Orpine, and Crooked Yellow Stonecrop.
The common name Stonecrop is derived from the Middle English and literally translates to sprouting from the stone. The Sedum earns this name due to the fact that it is commonly found growing amongst stones which actually provide the drainage that is essential for stonecrop’s health. The name Sedum is derived from this same preference of habitat, and originates from the Latin word, sedere, meaning "to sit" as in "sitting" atop the stones. The variety S. acre derives its name due to the leaves’ sharp taste, as the Latin name 'acre', means sharp.
The genus varies in habit from annual, perennial and creeping herbs to shrubs. Sedum varieties are characterised by water-storing or succulent leaves. Sedum flowers mostly have five petals.
Sedum varieties have waxy, succulent foliage bearing clusters of flowers that start out pale green and eventually turn to a rosy pink. The leaves are simple, smooth-margined, while the flowers are borne in sprays held above the foliage. Many Sedum cultivars are available in shades of white, pink, magenta, red, yellow, lilac and brown.
Sedums thrive in full sun to partial shade and bloom in late summer to fall, keeping the garden lively when little else would grow. Stonecrops are extremely easy to grow and prefer a well-drained soil, although they can tolerate rainy weather as well. Sedum or Stonecrop is drought tolerant once established and will grow in almost any type of soil. Their flower heads last a long time, and can be enjoyed well into the winter season if not deadheaded.
Sedums are very easy to propagate and stem cuttings can be taken at any time. Softwood cuttings or root leaves can be planted in early summer. Sedum may also be started from seed of hardy species in fall. Division is advised in spring.
Many Sedum varieties are cultivated as garden plants due to their interesting foliage, attractive flower heads and hardiness. Various Stonecrop species differ in their requirements: some are cold-hardy but do not tolerate heat, while others require heat but do not tolerate cold. Sedum tends to spread when allowed to do so, but can be easily removed as well since it has shallow roots.
Sedums are a great addition to your yard or garden, adding beauty and interest without greatly adding to your gardening chores. Stonecrop looks lovely in hanging baskets and container gardens as a trailing accent, as borders, or as groundcover. Stonecrops are wonderful perennials for any mixed border, visited by butterflies and bees in late summer. Stonecrops look particularly good in small mass plantings that take center stage in autumn. Taller Sedums are suitable for edging specimen plants and containers while smaller stonecrop varieties make good addition to rock gardens and wall. Some Sedums come with variegated foliage.
Stonecrops make great cut flowers and can be used in both fresh and dried flower arrangements. With a vase life of 7-10 days, Stonecrop is a popular backdrop for featured flowers in any wedding bouquet, table centerpiece or flower arrangement.
Popular European varieties include Sedum acre, Sedum album and Sedum dasyphyllum. Sedum acre or Mossy stonecrop is a perennial that grows as a creeping ground cover, with bright yellow flowers in late spring. Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ is an all time favourite because of its unique, bright pink blooms. Sedum spectabile or Brilliant has clear, pink flowers. Sedum ‘Vera Jamison’ has burgundy leaves and mauve flowers with a trailing habit. Sedum Black Jack has deep burgundy, almost black foliage and strong upright habit. Sedum Cloud Nine possesses variegated foliage. Dragon's Blood is a trendy variety of the two-row stonecrop, Sedum spurium, with dark red blossoms. Sedum album or Worm grass and Sedum ternatum or Mountain Stonecrop produce white or pink flowers in early summer. All Sedum varieties except Sedum spurium are evergreen.
The variety Sedum reflexum has a slightly astringent sour taste and is occasionally used as salad leaf or herb in the U.K and other parts of Europe.
Sedum acre has a sharp, peppery and acrid taste and is somewhat toxic. It may cause irritations of mucous membranes, cramps, paralysis, and respiratory paralysis depending on the amount consumed.
Sedum Meaning
The hardy yet beautiful Sedum flower symbolizes Tranquility and Welcome.
Sedum Mythology
In ancient Greece, Sedum acre was believed to cure epilepsy and skin diseases, and was also used for inducing miscarriage.
In ancient times, Stonecrop was thought to cure ulcers, fevers and bleeding but had to be used with care as it could cause nausea and vomiting.
According to Folklore, the essence of the Stonecrop flower heals broken and wounded hearts. People also believed that Stonecrop had magical powers and could provide protection against thunderstorms.
Stonecrop also found use in magic potions and spells and was incorporated into charms and spells that were believed to encourage a peaceful marriage and happy home.
