What about Sedum in shade?

by Lorraine
(Grand Forks, B.C. Canada)

I transplanted some sedum to my back yard which is nicely shaded... and even though all my other shade lovers are loving it... the sedum all died... what did I do wrong??


Drought Smart Plants reply:

Hi Lorraine, what may seem to be nicely shaded to humans may be much too dark and damp for sun loving plants like Sedum.

Very few of them thrive in shade, some prefer it such as Sedum ternatum, but most will struggle if they're not in absolute full sun, with a dry well drained soil.

They will put up with some shade if they have at least four hours of full sun, but with no sun at all they will be spindly, stretching to reach more light, and susceptible to all kinds of issues like rot, insects and will eventually just wither away.

Plant these drought tolerant sun worshippers in the worst soil in the garden, in full sun exposure, and stand back - they'll surprise you with their iron clad constitution, except in damp and dark conditions.

I would recommend trying these plants again in a sunnier spot, where they'll thrive.

Happy Succulent Gardening!
Jacki