Makino's Stonecrop
Sedum makinoi
Ogon
About this plant
Sedum makinoi, also known as Makino's Stonecrop, is a low-growing succulent with small, bright green to yellowish leaves that form dense mats. It is popular as ground cover or in rock gardens due to its spreading habit and drought tolerance. The plant produces tiny star-shaped yellow flowers in summer, adding ornamental value. It is named after Tomitaro Makino, a famous Japanese botanist.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Sedum
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Saxifragales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Japan
- Distribution
- Native to Japan and cultivated in temperate regions worldwide, often used in gardens and landscaping.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse, Indoor
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Rare
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- -20 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 5-9
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or rocky soil, cactus or succulent mix
Watering. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. In winter, reduce watering further.
Fertilizing. Feed lightly with a balanced, diluted fertilizer once in spring and once in summer. Too much fertilizer can cause leggy growth.
Sedum makinoi is a hardy succulent that thrives with minimal care. It prefers sunny spots and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so water sparingly. It requires little maintenance and is suitable for beginners.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Dense mats of small succulent leaves with bright green to yellow hues; small yellow star-shaped flowers in summer.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, safe to have around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Sedum makinoi is generally safe for most people and does not commonly cause allergies. However, those sensitive to plant sap might experience mild skin irritation. To reduce any risk, avoid direct contact with the sap and wash hands after handling.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases. Poor drainage or too much shade may cause the plant to become leggy or weak. Pests are rare but watch for aphids or mealybugs.
Uses
Used as ground cover, in rock gardens, green roofs, and container gardens for its attractive foliage and drought tolerance.
Notes
Prune back any leggy growth to maintain a compact shape. Repot or divide every few years to refresh soil and encourage healthy growth. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.