Sedum ternatum
woodland stonecrop
Overview
Sedum ternatum is a low, mat-forming succulent perennial in the stonecrop family, growing 3-6 inches (7.5-15 cm) tall and spreading 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) wide by creeping stems that root as they go. Unlike most sedums, it tolerates shade and moist soil, growing naturally on the forest floor. The fleshy, rounded leaves are arranged in whorls of three along the trailing stems, giving rise to the species name. Star-shaped white flowers with four to five narrow petals open in flat, branched, one-sided clusters in mid to late spring. After flowering, the upright stems die back while the prostrate stems persist and continue to spread. The plant grows on shaded rocks, ledges, streambanks, and rich woodland floors across the eastern United States. It tolerates more moisture and shade than typical sedums but rots in heavy, poorly drained soil and in deep wet shade. It is shallow-rooted and easily dislodged but re-roots quickly from broken stems. The spring flowers draw small bees and other early pollinators.
Native Range
Native to the eastern United States, from New York and Michigan south to Georgia and west to Arkansas. It grows on shaded rocks, ledges, streambanks, and rich woodland floors.Suggested Uses
Grown as a shade ground cover, in rock gardens, on shaded green roofs, and between stepping stones in woodland settings. The spring flowers supply nectar and pollen for small native bees.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height3" - 6"
Width/Spread8" - 1'
Bloom Information
White star-shaped flowers open in mid to late spring, from April to May, in flat, branched, one-sided clusters. The flowers have four to five narrow pointed petals. Small dry follicles follow and release tiny seed.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Tolerates up to 4 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grows in part to full shade in moist, well-drained soil with ample organic matter, tolerating more moisture and shade than most sedums. It needs sharp drainage despite its moisture tolerance and rots in heavy, soggy ground. The plant spreads by rooting stems into low mats and needs no fertilizer. Broken stem pieces root readily, making it easy to propagate and to repair bare patches. It has few pests but can be browsed by slugs in wet shade. Light and even moisture keep the mat dense.Pruning
No routine pruning is needed. Spent flower stems can be sheared off after bloom to keep the mat low. Stray runners can be trimmed or replanted to control the spread.Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 1 gallons