Sedum - Orizifolium Variegated aka Golden Rice
Sedum oryzifolium 'Variegatum' is a charming and delicate succulent admired for its small, rice-grain-like leaves that exhibit a delightful variegation, typically featuring shades of green and creamy white or yellow. This low-growing Sedum forms trailing or cascading stems, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets, rock gardens, and adding a touch of intricate beauty to small containers.
Key Features of Sedum oryzifolium 'Variegatum'
- Tiny, Rice-Grain-Like Leaves: The leaves are very small, fleshy, and oblong, resembling grains of rice.
- Variegated Foliage: The leaves display a beautiful variegation, usually a mix of green and creamy white or pale yellow stripes or edges. The intensity and pattern of variegation can vary.
- Trailing or Cascading Stems: The stems are slender and tend to trail or cascade, making it ideal for hanging displays or spilling over edges.
- Compact Growth Habit: Generally remains a small and compact succulent.
- Small, White Flowers: Mature plants can produce clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers, often appearing in the late spring or summer.
Care for Your Sedum oryzifolium 'Variegatum'
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight to maintain vibrant variegation. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch the delicate leaves. Insufficient light can lead to greener, leggy growth and reduced variegation.
- Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A sandy or gritty succulent mix is ideal.
- Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Sedums are drought-tolerant and susceptible to overwatering. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
- Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
- Humidity: Adapts well to typical household humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
- Handling with Care: The small leaves can be somewhat fragile, so handle the plant gently.
- Pruning (Optional): Can be trimmed to maintain shape or encourage bushier growth.
- Repotting (If in Containers): Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container, using a well-draining soil mix.
- Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like aphids or mealybugs. Treat any infestations promptly.
- Fertilizing (Minimal): Sedums generally do not require heavy fertilization. A light feeding with a diluted balanced fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial but is often not necessary.
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
- Stem Cuttings: A very easy and reliable method. Take stem cuttings a few inches long, allow the cut ends to callus over for a day or two, and then plant them in well-draining soil. They root readily.
- Leaf Cuttings: Can also be propagated from individual leaves, although this can be slower. Gently detach healthy leaves, allow the cut end to callus, and place them on well-draining soil.
Sedum oryzifolium 'Variegatum' is a charming and delicate trailing succulent with its unique rice-grain-like variegated leaves and cascading stems. Its intricate beauty and relatively easy care make it a delightful addition to small spaces and hanging displays.
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.