Sedum - Spathulifolium aka 'Capo Blanco' or 'Silver Blob'
Sedum Spathulifolium 'Capo Blanco', often marketed as Sedum 'Silver Blob', is a charming and low-growing succulent prized for its tightly packed rosettes of silvery-blue to white, fleshy leaves. This attractive groundcover forms a dense mat, adding a soft, powdery texture and cool tones to rock gardens, succulent arrangements, and containers. Its resilience and unique coloration make it a popular choice for various landscaping applications.
Key Features of Sedum spathulifolium'Capo Blanco'
- Silvery-Blue to White Foliage: The most distinctive feature is its rounded, tightly packed leaves that are heavily coated in a silvery-white to pale blue farina (powdery coating), giving it a soft, almost ethereal appearance.
- Rosette Formation: The leaves are arranged in small, compact rosettes along the stems.
- Low-Growing, Mat-Forming Habit: It spreads horizontally to form a dense, low mat, typically reaching only a few inches in height.
- Small Pink Flowers: In summer, it may produce clusters of small, star-shaped pink flowers that create a delicate contrast with the silvery foliage.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is quite drought tolerant, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Evergreen in Mild Climates: In regions with mild winters, it can retain its foliage year-round.
Care for Your Sedum spathulifolium'Capo Blanco'
- Light: Thrives in full sun, which helps to maintain its compact growth and intense silvery coloration. It can tolerate partial shade, but the color may be less vibrant, and the growth may become leggy.
- Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A sandy or gritty soil mix is ideal.
- Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. It is susceptible to root rot if kept consistently moist. Reduce watering significantly during the winter months.
- Temperature: Hardy in a range of temperatures but protect from prolonged hard frosts.
- Humidity: Prefers low to average humidity. Good air circulation is important.
Maintenance for a Thriving Silver Blob
- Minimal Pruning: Generally requires little to no pruning. You can trim back any dead or leggy stems to maintain a tidy appearance.
- Repotting: Repot in spring if the plant has outgrown its container, using a well-draining soil mix.
- Pest Control: Relatively pest-free, but watch out for common succulent pests like aphids or mealybugs. Treat any infestations promptly.
- Protecting Farina: Handle the leaves gently to avoid rubbing off the powdery coating, which contributes to its unique color and helps protect the plant.
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
- Stem Cuttings: Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Allow the cut ends to callus for a day or two before planting them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
- Leaf Cuttings: Leaf propagation is also possible, though it can be slower. Gently remove healthy leaves, allow them to callus, and place them on top of well-draining soil. New plantlets may eventually emerge.
- Division: Mature mats can be carefully divided in spring or early summer. Ensure each division has its own roots.
Sedum spathulifolium'Capo Blanco' is a delightful and low-maintenance succulent that provides year-round visual interest with its striking silvery foliage and mat-forming habit. Its drought tolerance and ease of propagation make it a versatile and rewarding addition to various garden settings and container arrangements.
* 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.