Shrubby Stonecrop Crest

Sedum praeltum, native to Mexico, forms a shrub to 3′ in height. Spatulate leaves are shiny lime green, often with red margins in bright light. This is an unusual cristate form that grows laterally as fan shapes that are densely topped with lime green leaves. Cristate forms generally occur when injury occurs to the plant at a young age (this damage can be due to insects eating the growing tip, or from many other causes, including a genetic predisposition). In reaction to the “injury”, the cells at the tip of the branch where growth occurs begin to multiply at a much faster rate and the normal growing tip “goes crazy”, creating fantastic whorls and fans. Porous soil with adequate drainage. Bright light to full sun. Water thoroughly when soil is dry to the touch. Protect from frost.