How to Grow Caucasian Stonecrop
Phedimus spurius
Caucasian Stonecrop is a tough, drought-tolerant groundcover perennial that forms dense low mats of fleshy, semi-evergreen foliage. Plant in full sun to partial shade in any well-drained soil — it thrives in poor, stony ground and is ideal for rock gardens, dry slopes, and wall tops. Water in to establish, then largely leave it alone; overwatering and rich soil are its main enemies. It produces a flush of star-shaped pink, red, or white flowers in early summer. Trim lightly after flowering to keep the mat tidy. Hardy to around -30°C once established.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Rarely needed. A single light balanced feed in early spring on very poor soils is sufficient. Over-feeding causes soft, floppy growth and reduces flowering.
Watch For
- Root rot in waterlogged soil
- Aphids on new spring growth
- Vine weevil grubs
Companions
Sempervivum, Thyme, Aubrieta, Allium
Pet Safety
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Performs best in full sun where it flowers most freely and foliage colour is richest. Tolerates partial shade but becomes looser and less floriferous.
Watering
Low — drought tolerant once established
Water in well at planting. Once established, natural rainfall is usually sufficient. Never allow soil to become waterlogged — root rot is the most common cause of failure.
Fertilizing
Rarely needed
Thrives in poor to average soils. A light balanced feed in early spring on very poor ground is the most that should ever be applied. Rich soil causes floppy, soft growth.
Spacing
30 cm apart
Space 30 cm apart for ground cover. Plants spread to 60 cm wide over 2–3 seasons, filling gaps quickly.
Pruning
Trim lightly after flowering
Shear the mat back by a third after flowering in late summer to keep it compact and tidy. Divide congested clumps in spring every 3–4 years.
Growing Tips
Drainage first
Poor drainage is the number one killer. If your soil is heavy clay, improve it with grit or plant in a raised bed or rock garden. Even brief waterlogging in winter can cause total crown rot.
Great for walls and slopes
Cascades beautifully over dry stone walls, rocky slopes, and raised bed edges. It naturally roots along stems as it spreads, making it highly effective at binding dry soil.
Autumn colour bonus
Foliage of red-leaved cultivars such as Dragon's Blood deepens to rich bronze-crimson in autumn and often remains semi-evergreen through winter, giving year-round interest.
Easy propagation
Snap off a stem, let the cut end dry for an hour, then push it into gritty compost. It roots reliably within a few weeks with no special treatment needed.
