Why people love it
White stonecrop is one of the easiest succulents to grow outdoors. It forms a low, spreading mat of tiny, plump leaves that fill gaps between stones, spill over walls and cover dry, sunny ground where little else will grow. In summer it’s covered in small, starry white flowers that bees love. In strong sun or cold weather, the leaves often turn red.
Care in a nutshell
- Plant it outdoors in sun. Like hens and chicks, it handles freezing winters if its soil drains well. It rarely does well as a long-term houseplant.
- Skip the rich soil. Poor, gritty soil keeps it compact.
- Leave it alone. Once it’s settled, it needs almost no watering or feeding.
Growing more
Almost any piece will root. Snip a few stems or pull off a small clump in spring or summer and press it onto gritty soil where you want it to grow. Water lightly until it takes hold.
Watch out for
- It spreads. It’s easy to pull up, but keep it away from small plants it could smother.
- Rot in heavy, wet soil. Improve drainage with grit or gravel, or grow it in a raised spot or trough.
Fun fact: Its tough, shallow roots make it a favorite for green roofs, where it grows in just a few inches of soil.
