Product Description
Sedum x 'Autumn Fire' (25) Bare Root Plants
a/k/a Stonecrop
This selection is very similar to 'Autumn Joy', but was selected for its tighter growth habit, thicker foliage, and more brightly colored rosy flowers which are produced from late summer into fall. It was developed in Quebec.
Tall, upright sedums form substantial clumps of foliage which can be substituted for shrubs in the landscape. Their stout, sturdy stems support the massive flower heads which develop in summer and burst into bloom in fall. If left standing, they provide winter interest and food for birds.
Sedum is one of the most popular perennials grown in American gardens because it is very easy to grow and hardy in most areas of the country. Because of its thick, succulent leaves which can store water, sedum is drought tolerant. It should be sited in average to poor soil that is well-drained. Plants grown in rich soil tend to be lanky and open. Most varieties should be grown in full sun to light shade. The lower growing types, however, will survive in partial shade.
This plant is not usually bothered by pests or diseases. The seed heads of the taller varieties provide excellent winter interest and food for birds. Remove them in spring when the new growth begins to show.
Height: 24-30 Inches
Spread: 18-24 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7,8,9
Flower Color: Pink shades
Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Low to Average Water Needs
Poor to Average Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Late Summer - Mid Fall
Attracts Butterflies
Bee Friendly
Rabbit Resistant
Seasonal Interest: Dried Seed Heads, Fall Color
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Container, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Dried Flower, Drought Tolerant, Easy To Grow, Edging, Attractive Foliage, Mass Planting, Salt Tolerant
Sedum 'Autumn Fire' is a popular and beloved fall-blooming perennial, prized for its large, showy flower heads that transition from rosy pink to coppery red as the season progresses. It is an improved variety of the classic Sedum 'Autumn Joy', offering larger flower heads, thicker stems, and a longer bloom time. Here is a closer look at this fantastic plant:
Appearance:
- Flowers: 'Autumn Fire' produces large, flat-topped clusters of tiny, star-shaped flowers. The blooms emerge in late summer with a rosy pink hue and gradually deepen to rich shades of copper and rust as fall approaches. The faded flower heads also provide winter interest.
- Foliage: The plant features thick, fleshy, blue-green leaves that provide a sturdy backdrop for the flower heads. The foliage adds texture and color to the garden even before the blooms appear.
- Growth Habit: It has an upright, clump-forming growth habit, typically reaching around 18-24 inches tall and 15-18 inches wide.
Growing Conditions:
- Hardiness Zones: 'Autumn Fire' is hardy in USDA zones 3-9, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of climates.
- Sunlight: It thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal flowering. It can tolerate some light shade, but flowering may be reduced.
- Soil: It prefers well-drained soil and is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
- Water: Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. However, it is important to provide regular watering during the first year to help it establish its roots.
Care:
- Deadheading: While not necessary, deadheading spent flowers can help to tidy up the plant's appearance. However, many gardeners prefer to leave the faded flower heads for winter interest, as they provide visual appeal and food for birds.
- Pruning: In late winter or early spring, you can cut back the plant to ground level to promote bushier growth and prevent it from becoming floppy.
- Fertilizing: It generally does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient.
- Mulching: Mulching around the plant can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the plant during harsh winters.
Benefits:
- Late-season color: It provides a vibrant display of color in late summer and fall when many other plants are starting to fade.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects.
- Winter interest: The faded flower heads add visual interest to the winter garden and provide food for birds.
- Drought tolerant: Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
- Deer and rabbit resistant: It is generally deer and rabbit resistant, making it a good choice for gardens where these animals are a concern.
Uses:
- Borders: It adds a bold splash of color and texture to garden borders.
- Cottage gardens: Its informal appearance blends well with the relaxed style of cottage gardens.
- Rock gardens: It is a good choice for rock gardens due to its drought tolerance and preference for well-drained soil.
- Containers: It can also be grown in containers, allowing you to enjoy its beauty on patios and balconies.
Companion Plants:
- Ornamental grasses: The contrasting textures and colors of ornamental grasses and Sedum 'Autumn Fire' create a visually appealing combination.
- Asters: Asters, with their late-season blooms, complement the fall color of Sedum 'Autumn Fire'.
- Solidago (Goldenrod): Solidago, with its bright yellow flowers, provides a contrasting color to the pink and copper tones of Sedum 'Autumn Fire'.
Overall, Sedum 'Autumn Fire' is a fantastic choice for adding late-season color and interest to your garden. Its long bloom time, drought tolerance, and ability to attract pollinators make it a valuable addition to any landscape.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
