The Purple Spoon Leafed Stonecrop
Sedum spathulifolium ‘Purpureum’, commonly known as Purple Spoon Leaf Stonecrop or Purple Blob, is a low-growing succulent native to the rocky hillsides of North America’s west coast.
It is well suited to dry, sunny conditions and performs particularly well in rock gardens and containers.
The attractive blue to purple foliage provides year-round interest, with bright yellow flowers appearing from spring into summer.
Key Features
- Low-growing, spreading succulent
- Blue to purple foliage year-round
- Yellow flowers on taller stems
- Ideal for rock gardens and containers
- Drought tolerant and low maintenance
Growth Habit and Size
This sedum forms a compact, spreading clump over time.
- Height: Around 10cm
- Spread: Around 30cm or more in good conditions
- Growth habit: Low, rosette-forming and spreading
It gradually forms a dense mat, making it suitable as a small-scale ground cover.
Flowers and Foliage
The combination of foliage and flowers makes this a standout plant.
- Foliage: Blue tones suffused with purple
- Form: Tight rosettes resembling small flowers
- Colour variation: Stronger colour in full sun
- Flowers: Bright yellow on taller stems
- Flowering time: Spring to mid-summer
The rosette form makes it especially appealing in containers and decorative plantings.
Growing Conditions
Sedum spathulifolium ‘Purpureum’ thrives in well-drained soils and sunny conditions.
- Position: Full sun
- Soil: Free-draining soil is essential
- Watering: Allow soil to dry between watering
- Climate: Best in frost-free or protected positions
Deep shade is not suitable, as it leads to weaker growth and reduced colour.
Growing in Containers
This is an excellent plant for pots and containers.
- Use a free-draining succulent mix
- Ensure pots have good drainage
- Allow the plant to spread and trail slightly over edges
- Water sparingly, especially in cooler months
It is particularly effective as a feature plant where the foliage can be appreciated up close.
How to Use Sedum spathulifolium ‘Purpureum’ in Rock Gardens
This sedum is ideal for rock and crevice gardens as are nearly all of the Stonecrops.
Plant it between rocks, along retaining walls, or in raised areas where drainage is excellent. Its spreading habit allows it to fill gaps and soften hard edges over time.
It performs especially well in dry, sunny positions where other plants may struggle.
Best Companion Plants
Sedum spathulifolium ‘Purpureum’ pairs well with other drought-tolerant plants.
Good companions include:
- Other sedums and succulents
- Silver or grey foliage plants for contrast
- Low-growing alpines
- Small grasses for texture
Combining contrasting foliage colours helps highlight the purple tones.
Landscaping Uses
A versatile plant with many applications.
- As a ground cover in sunny, well-drained areas
- In rock gardens and crevice plantings
- Along retaining walls and edges
- In containers and pots
- Suitable for fairy gardens and small-scale plantings
Its neat rosette form makes it especially appealing in decorative settings.
Care and Maintenance
This is a low-maintenance plant once established.
- Water using a wet-dry cycle
- Fertilise lightly 1–2 times per year
- Avoid over-fertilising to prevent leggy growth
- Pruning is rarely required
Maintaining good drainage is the most important factor.
Propagation
Propagation is simple and reliable.
- Divide established clumps
- Take cuttings during the growing season
Both methods establish easily in suitable conditions.
Climate Considerations
This plant prefers mild to warm conditions.
- Not well suited to very cold climates
- Frost can damage foliage
- Best grown in containers in cooler regions
Providing shelter will help maintain plant health.
Summary
- Botanical Name: Sedum spathulifolium ‘Purpureum’
- Common Names: Purple Spoon Leaf Stonecrop, Purple Blob
- Height: 10cm
- Spread: 30cm+
- Position: Full sun, frost-free
- Soil: Well-drained
- Foliage: Blue with purple tones
- Flowers: Yellow
- Flowering: Spring to mid-summer
- Frost tolerant: No
- Drought tolerant: Yes
- Foot traffic: Not suitable
Where To Buy
470 Monbulk-Silvan Road Monbulk VIC 3793
"Guaranteed mail order flowering bulbs, perennials, roses, trees, landscaping plants, garden accessories and community fundraising Austra lia-wide."
www.gardenexpress.com.au
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