Atlantis Stonecrop

Atlantis Stonecrop (Sedum takesimense 'Nonsitnal')

Atlantis Stonecrop is a low, spreading sedum that brings bold foliage color to sunny areas where you want dependable coverage with minimal upkeep. Its variegated rosettes brighten borders and rock gardens from spring through fall, then often pick up a pink blush as temperatures cool. This plant is well suited to dry, well-drained sites and handles heat once established. When it blooms, the yellow flowers add an extra layer of seasonal interest and pollinator activity.

Distinctive Features

This groundcover stonecrop forms tidy rosettes of succulent, serrated leaves with dark green centers and wide creamy yellow margins. In cooler weather, the pale margins can take on pink tones, adding a subtle seasonal color shift without losing its clean, structured look. Sprays of bright yellow, star-shaped flowers typically appear in summer above the foliage, offering nectar for bees and butterflies. Its succulent foliage and spreading habit make it a strong performer in lean soils and exposed sites with fast drainage.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun for best color and dense growth, with partial sun tolerated.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential, and it thrives in sandy, gravelly, or rocky conditions.
• Water: Water to establish, then provide occasional water during extended drought, as it prefers dry to medium moisture.
• USDA Zones: Hardy in USDA Zones 4 to 9 in typical garden conditions.
• Mature Size: Typically grows about 4 to 6 inches tall and spreads about 10 to 12 inches wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use a bright drift as a low focal point along a path or stone wall where the variegation reads from a distance.
• Groundcover: Mass plant to form a dense mat that fills gaps and keeps sunny beds looking finished.
• Rock Gardens: Tuck into rock and gravel gardens where sharp drainage and heat reflectance are common.
• Edging: Line bed fronts and walkway edges for a clean, low border with strong foliage contrast.
• Slopes: Plant on sunny slopes to help cover ground and handle dry, fast-draining conditions.

Low Maintenance Care

• Pruning: Shear lightly after flowering or in early spring to refresh the mound and encourage tight regrowth.
• Fertilizing: Avoid heavy feeding, because lean soils support compact growth and better foliage color.
• Mulching: Use a thin layer of gravel or light mulch and keep crowns uncovered to reduce excess moisture.
• Watering: Do not overwater, and let soil dry between waterings once established.
• Propagation: Expand plantings easily by taking small stem pieces that root readily in well-drained soil.

Why Choose Atlantis Stonecrop?

• Variegated Foliage: Creamy yellow margins and dark green centers deliver strong contrast for months.
• Seasonal Blush: Cooler temperatures can bring pink tones to the margins for added fall color interest.
• Drought Tolerance: Succulent growth handles dry spells once established in well-drained soil.
• Pollinator Value: Summer yellow flowers attract bees and butterflies when in bloom.
• Tough Site Fit: Performs well in rocky soils and can tolerate coastal exposure, including salt and wind, in many landscapes.

Atlantis Stonecrop is a dependable way to add color, texture, and structure to sunny gardens without increasing maintenance demands. Pair it with ornamental grasses, drought-tolerant perennials, or darker foliage plants to make the variegation stand out. For clean edges, rock gardens, and waterwise beds, it is an easy plant to build around.