Tricolor Stonecrop

Tricolor Stonecrop (Sedum spurium 'Tricolor')

Tricolor Stonecrop is a low, spreading groundcover that brings crisp, variegated color to sunny beds with very little upkeep. Its dense mat helps fill gaps and keep edges looking finished, even in heat and lean soils. In late spring into summer, clusters of soft pink flowers add a bright seasonal accent and draw pollinators. With well-drained soil, it is a reliable, waterwise choice that performs year after year.

Distinctive Features

This stonecrop forms creeping, branching stems that root as they spread, creating a tidy carpet of small, fleshy leaves. Foliage is variegated with green centers, creamy white margins, and a pink blush, with color often intensifying in strong sun and cooler weather. Star-shaped, pale pink flowers bloom in clusters from late spring into mid summer, floating just above the foliage for a clean, airy finish. The plant can take on deeper red tones in cold conditions, extending interest beyond the bloom window.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun provides the best color and dense growth, with light shade tolerated.
• Soil: Plant in well-drained soil, especially sandy, gravelly, or rocky sites, and avoid consistently wet conditions.
• Water: Water to establish, then provide dry to medium moisture, allowing soil to dry between waterings.
• USDA Zones: Hardy in USDA Zones 3 to 9.
• Mature Size: Typically grows 3 to 6 inches tall and spreads 12 to 18 inches wide.
• Bloom Season: Blooms from late spring into summer.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use a broad patch as a low focal point where the variegated foliage can brighten stone, gravel, or darker plantings.
• Groundcover: Mass plant to form a dense mat that fills gaps and helps suppress weeds in sunny beds.
• Rock Gardens: Tuck into fast-draining sites where clean texture and drought tolerance matter.
• Edging: Line paths and bed fronts for a crisp, low border with season-long color.
• Containers: Plant in well-drained pots and troughs to add bright foliage contrast and a tidy trailing edge.

Low Maintenance Care

• Pruning: Shear lightly after flowering or in early spring to refresh growth and keep the mat dense.
• Fertilizing: Avoid heavy feeding, because lean soils help maintain compact growth and stronger color.
• Watering: Once established, water only during extended drought, because frequent irrigation can encourage rot in poorly drained sites.
• Winter Cleanup: Remove any winter-damaged tips in early spring as new growth begins.
• Propagation: Expand plantings easily by dividing sections or re-rooting stem pieces in well-drained soil.

Why Choose Tricolor Stonecrop?

• Variegated Foliage: Green, cream, and pink tones add brightness and contrast from spring through fall.
• Seasonal Color Shifts: Foliage can deepen to stronger pink and red tones as weather cools.
• Soft Pink Flowers: Late spring to summer blooms add a gentle color layer and support pollinators.
• Tough Site Fit: Performs well in rocky, lean soils with excellent drainage.
• Low Maintenance Coverage: Creeping, rooting stems create reliable groundcover with minimal input.

Tricolor Stonecrop is an easy way to add dependable coverage and bright foliage color to sunny, well-drained areas. Pair it with blue foliage plants, ornamental grasses, or darker groundcovers to make the variegation stand out. With sun and drainage, it stays compact, colorful, and reliable year after year.