Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle
Gynelle Leon

Houseplant of the week: Japanese stonecrop

The Japanese Stonecrop in a pot.

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.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.