Caucasian stonecrop (Phedimus spurius)
Care, watering, light and tips for Caucasian stonecrop on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Crassulaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 14 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Caucasian stonecrop
Phedimus spurius, commonly known as 'Gravbergknapp' or False Sedum, is a low-growing perennial succulent that forms dense mats of foliage. Its fleshy, vibrantly colored leaves, ranging from green to red or bronze depending on the season and sun exposure, make it ideal for ground cover, rock gardens, or as a trailing plant in containers. Its star-shaped pink or red flowers, appearing in summer, add further appeal to this resilient plant.
Native range
Caucasus and northeastern Asia Minor
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth and intense leaf coloration; partial shade can be tolerated but with less flowering. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot, as it is very drought tolerant. It prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soil with low organic content. A common mistake to avoid is overwatering, especially in winter, which can be fatal for this succulent.
How to save a dying Caucasian stonecrop
- Warning signs
- Soft, wrinkled, non-turgid leaves (underwatering); rotten, black, mushy stems (overwatering).
- First aid
- If underwatered, submerge pot for 15 min. If overwatered, remove from pot, clean rotten roots, repot in dry substrate.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is the main killer. Also lack of direct light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! They are very resilient. If healthy stems remain, you can easily propagate cuttings.