Sedum lineare ‘Variegatum’

Cream and Green – Sedum

Sedum lineare ‘Variegatum’ is a low-growing, carpeting succulent grown primarily for its attractive cream and green foliage.

One of the more unusual sedum plants, with a spreading habit and soft, upright stems, it is a versatile plant suited to containers, hanging baskets, and garden beds.

The variegated foliage provides year-round interest, making it a useful addition to both modern and traditional garden designs.

Key Features

• Low-growing, spreading succulent
• Cream and green variegated foliage
• Suitable for containers, baskets, and ground cover
• Drought tolerant and easy care
• Yellow flowers in summer

Growth Habit and Size

This is a compact, spreading plant that forms a soft ground cover over time.

• Height: Around 5cm
• Spread: Around 30cm, increasing gradually
• Growth habit: Low, spreading with soft upright stems

Flowers and Foliage

The foliage is the main feature, with flowers providing a seasonal bonus.

• Foliage: Mid green leaves edged with cream
• New growth: Creamy white when emerging
• Texture: Soft, slightly upright stems
• Flowers: Small yellow blooms
• Flowering time: Summer

Foliage colour and compact growth are best maintained with good light.

Growing Conditions

Sedum lineare ‘Variegatum’ performs best in well-drained soil and a sunny position.

• Position: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Well-drained, humus-rich soil preferred
• Watering: Low, with occasional extra water in hot, dry periods
• Climate: Drought and cold tolerant

In very hot climates, a little afternoon shade can help prevent stress.

Growing in Containers and Hanging Baskets

This sedum is well suited to container growing and hanging baskets.

• Use a free-draining succulent potting mix
• Ensure containers have good drainage
• Allow stems to trail naturally over the edges
• Water lightly, allowing soil to dry between watering

It is particularly effective when used as a soft trailing plant in mixed container displays.

How to Use Sedum lineare ‘Variegatum’ in Rock Gardens

This variety works well in rock gardens where its spreading habit can soften edges and fill gaps.

Plant it between rocks or along borders where drainage is excellent. Its light-coloured foliage helps brighten darker areas and contrasts well with stone and gravel.

It is especially useful in smaller rockeries where a low, controlled spread is desired.

Best Companion Plants for Sedum lineare ‘Variegatum’

The cream and green foliage makes this plant easy to combine with others.

Good companion plants include:

• Other succulents for contrast in form and colour
• Dark green or purple foliage plants for contrast
• Low-growing ground covers with different textures
• Small grasses or alpines for added variation

Using contrasting foliage colours helps highlight the variegation.

Uses in the Garden

Sedum lineare ‘Variegatum’ is highly versatile.

• As a ground cover in sunny or lightly shaded areas
• In rock gardens and gravel plantings
• For hanging baskets and containers
• Suitable for green roofs and vertical gardens
• Can even be used in dry soil terrariums

Its adaptability makes it useful in a range of landscape styles.

Care and Maintenance

This is a low-maintenance plant once established.

• Improve drainage in heavier soils
• Water occasionally during extended dry periods
• Trim lightly if needed to maintain shape

Growth may become slightly taller and less compact in deep shade.

Propagation

Propagation is simple and effective.

• Take stem cuttings during the growing season
• Plant into a free-draining mix
• Keep lightly moist until established

It will also spread naturally over time, forming new growth from existing stems.

Common Issues (New Section)

Generally easy to grow, but watch for:

• Poor drainage leading to root rot
• Leggy growth in too much shade
• Reduced variegation in low light

Providing good light and drainage will prevent most problems.

Summary

• Botanical Name: Sedum lineare ‘Variegatum’
• Common Name: Cream and Green Sedum
• Height: 5cm
• Spread: 30cm+
• Position: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Well-drained, humus-rich
• Foliage: Green with cream variegation
• Flowers: Yellow
• Flowering: Summer
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Cold tolerant: Yes

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