Sedum ternatum facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Sedum ternatum
Scientific classification
Genus:	Sedum
Species:	ternatum

Sedum ternatum, also known as woodland stonecrop, is a special plant found across eastern North America. It's the most common type of Sedum that grows naturally in this area. This plant is known for its pretty white flowers that bloom from April to May.

Woodland stonecrop is quite tough! It can grow well in shady spots, like under trees in a forest. But it can also handle sunnier places if there's enough moisture in the soil. Its common name, "stonecrop," gives you a clue about how strong it is. It means the plant can grow right on top of rocks and boulders! Its thick, juicy leaves help it store water, which is super helpful when the soil is shallow. This plant also makes a great addition to gardens.

Where Does Woodland Stonecrop Grow?

Woodland stonecrop is native to a large part of the eastern United States. You can find it as far west as Arkansas and Iowa. It grows south along the Appalachian Mountains and stretches north close to the Canada–United States border. This wide range shows how adaptable this plant is to different environments.

What Makes This Plant Special?

It's easy to tell Sedum ternatum apart from other similar plants. Most Sedum plants have flowers with five petals, but woodland stonecrop has only four white petals. This is a key difference!

Another unique feature is its leaves. They grow in groups of three, forming a circle around the stem. This special arrangement is actually why it's called "ternatum" – "ternate" means growing in groups of three.

When Does Woodland Stonecrop Bloom?

This lovely plant flowers for about a month. You'll usually see its white blooms in late spring and early summer. It's a beautiful sight in the forest understory during this time!