Family: Crassulaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Mant. Pl. 2: 241 (1771)
Year: 1771
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Sedum
Vegetable: False
Observations: WC. Medit.
Description
Azure stonecrop, scientifically known as Sedum caeruleum, is a captivating and distinct member of the Crassulaceae family. This enchanting succulent was first described and cataloged in 1771 in “Mantissa Plantarum” by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus, often abbreviated as L.
Native to the Mediterranean region, particularly prevalent in Western and Central areas, Azure stonecrop thrives in rocky, well-drained soils that mimic its natural habitat’s conditions. This robust succulent is renowned for its eye-catching azure blue flowers that blossom brightly against its green foliage during the blooming season.
Azure stonecrop exhibits the typical hardiness and resilience of members of the Crassulaceae family. It can withstand drought conditions remarkably well, making it a favored choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. The plant’s structure is low-growing, with rosettes of fleshy leaves that store water, allowing it to survive in harsh, dry environments.
Due to its appealing appearance and low maintenance requirements, Sedum caeruleum is a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts and gardeners seeking to add a splash of color to arid landscapes. It embodies the quintessential charm of Mediterranean flora, bringing a piece of this sunny, rugged ecosystem to gardens and collections around the world.
In cultivation, Azure stonecrop requires minimal care. It flourishes best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot, a common issue with succulents. Instead, infrequent deep watering that allows the soil to dry out completely between sessions is ideal.
Sedum caeruleum can also be propagated easily by leaf or stem cuttings, making it an accessible and rewarding plant for both novice and experienced gardeners. It’s a remarkable species that combines beauty with resilience, truly a testament to the wonders of Mediterranean plant life.
Common Names
Deu: blaue fetthenne
En: Azure Stonecrop
Ar: سدم أزرق
Fr: Orpin bleuâtre
De: Blaue Fetthenne
It: Borracina azzurra, Borracina azzura
Pl: Rozchodnik błękitny
Sv: Blå fetknopp
: Azure stonecrop
Synonyms
- Sedum coeruleum (Vahl)
- Sedum hexapetalum (Haw.)
- Sedum caeruleum var. pusillum (Maire)
- Oreosedum caeruleum ((L.) Grulich)
Distribution
- Algeria (native)
- Corse (native)
- Morocco (native)
- Sardegna (native)
- Sicilia (native)
- Tunisia (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Apr 1, 2019 by iannizzotto michele (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 21, 2020 by Michelle Candelaria Pino (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 19, 2020 by neves vera (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 18, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 21, 2019 by Christina Dollinger (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Apr 18, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 20, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 5, 2022 by Danix Daniele (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 28, 2021 by Georges Olioso (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 15, 2020 by Pérez Nando (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 1, 2010 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 16, 2020 by Salvo (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 20, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 18, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 17, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Patrick LEBOULENGER (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 20, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 2, 2019 by Stéphan PLAS (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jul 13, 2019 by Rudy Vancaudenberg (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 15, 2015 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken May 15, 2005 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)
Taken May 1, 2018 by nassima belloula (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Aug 2, 2020 by rainer.rennert (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5690504)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:275177-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Sedum caeruleum L.)
Specifications
Growth
Bloom months: [‘apr’, ‘may’, ‘jun’]
