Broadleaf stonecrop facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Broadleaf stonecrop
Scientific classification
Genus:	Sedum
Species:	spathulifolium

Sedum spathulifolium is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family, which includes many succulent plants. People often call it broadleaf stonecrop or yellow stonecrop. This plant stays green all year round, so it's an evergreen perennial. It grows naturally in western North America. You can find it from British Columbia down to southern California. It likes rocky places, often in the shade, in hills and mountains.

What Does Broadleaf Stonecrop Look Like?

This plant is a succulent plant. This means it has thick, fleshy parts that store water. It often grows in mats, forming a carpet on the ground. These mats come from rosettes of leaves at the base of the plant. These rosettes grow from underground stems called rhizomes.

Leaves and Flowers

The leaves at the base are usually 1 or 2 centimeters long. They can sometimes look like they are covered in a waxy, powdery layer.

When the plant blooms, it sends up a short, straight stem. This stem holds many small, bright yellow flowers. This cluster of flowers is called an inflorescence.

The second part of the plant's scientific name, spathulifolium, describes its leaves. It means "spade-shaped leaves," because they look a bit like small spades.

Growing Broadleaf Stonecrop in Your Garden

Sedum spathulifolium is a great plant for gardens. It works well as a groundcover, which means it spreads out and covers the ground. It helps keep weeds down and looks nice.

Best Growing Conditions

This plant likes soil that drains water well. It can grow in full sun or in a bit of shade. However, it doesn't like to be too wet during the winter.

Many different types of this plant have been grown for gardens. These special types are called cultivars. Two popular ones are 'Cape Blanco' and 'Purpureum'. They have even won an award from the Royal Horticultural Society for being excellent garden plants.