Autumn Fire Sedum

Sedum spectabile 'Autumn Fire'

Family: Stonecrop

Type: Perennial

Other Common Name: Showy Stonecrop

Autumn Fire Sedum, known scientifically as Sedum ‘Autumn Fire’, is a robust and vibrant perennial plant that brings late-season color to the garden. Renowned for its thick, sturdy stems and large flower heads, this succulent displays a show of deep pink blooms that mature to a coppery red in fall. It’s a favorite among gardeners for its low maintenance and long-lasting blooms.

Growing to about 18-24 inches in height with a similar spread, Autumn Fire Sedum is perfect for adding structure and interest to perennial borders, rock gardens, and xeriscaped areas. Its upright, clump-forming habit makes it a great choice for adding height and texture. This plant is drought-tolerant once established and thrives in a variety of conditions, making it versatile for different garden styles.

Autumn Fire Sedum prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Its ability to withstand dry conditions and poor soil makes it a fantastic choice for challenging garden spots. The plant’s attractive blooms not only add beauty to the garden but also attract a variety of pollinators, including butterflies and bees.

Needs & Preferences

Hardiness Zone: 2b-4a

Deer Resistant: Yes

Pet Friendly: Yes

Moisture Preference: Dry to moist

Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade

Drought Tolerance (Xeriscape): Yes

Growth

Growth Rate: Fast

Average Height (feet): 2.5

Average Spread (feet): 2

Average Life Span (years): 15

Form: Upright spreading

Ornamental

Flower Color: Pink

Bloom Season: From late summer to late fall

Foliage Color: Green

Foliage Shape: Round

Landscaping Your Yard With Autumn Fire Sedum

Autumn Fire Sedum is an excellent choice for creating vibrant focal points in the garden. Its striking blooms and sturdy stems add visual interest to any landscape. Plant it in groups for a bold display of color, or use it as an accent among other perennials.

Incorporate Autumn Fire Sedum into rock gardens or as part of a drought-tolerant planting scheme. Its succulent nature and tolerance for poor soil make it a valuable addition to these landscapes. Autumn Fire Sedum also works well in container gardens, bringing late-season color to patios and balconies.

Due to its height and structure, Autumn Fire Sedum can be used effectively as a backdrop plant in garden beds. It pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses and other late-blooming perennials, creating a dynamic and layered garden design.

pink_flowers_autumn_fire_sedum_sedum_spectabile_autumn_fire_plant_by_number

Suitable Garden Styles

Contemporary Garden

In contemporary gardens, Autumn Fire Sedum adds a touch of sophistication with its structured form and vibrant blooms. Its modern appeal fits well with the minimalist aesthetic of contemporary landscapes.

Cottage Garden

Autumn Fire Sedum can be a beautiful addition to cottage gardens. Its bold blooms and height add a dramatic touch to the informal, lush style of these gardens.

Butterfly Garden

As a pollinator-friendly plant, Autumn Fire Sedum is ideal for butterfly gardens. Its late-season blooms provide a vital source of nectar for butterflies and bees.

Autumn Fire Sedum Landscaping Ideas

Use Autumn Fire Sedum in mixed borders for late-season color. Its deep pink to red flowers stand out among other plants, especially as many perennials begin to fade in the fall. Combine it with ornamental grasses for a stunning autumn display.

Seasonal Interest

Spring

In spring, Autumn Fire Sedum starts to produce fresh green growth, setting the foundation for its late-season blooms.

Summer

During summer, the plant forms buds that hint at the spectacular show to come in the fall.

Fall

In the fall, Autumn Fire Sedum's blooms reach their peak, displaying rich coppery red flowers that add warmth and depth to the autumn garden.

Winter

In winter, Autumn Fire Sedum's flower heads can be left intact for added interest and texture in the garden, especially when dusted with frost or snow.

Companion Plants

flowers

Stella D’oro Daylily

Hemerocallis 'Stella de Oro'

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flowers

Little Spire Russian Sage

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Little Spire'

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flowers

Purple Dome Aster

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Purple Dome'

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Planting Tips

Where to Plant

Autumn Fire Sedum should be planted in areas with full sun exposure to achieve the best flowering and foliage color. Ideal locations include sunny borders, rock gardens, or as a standout feature in mixed beds.

Light

This plant thrives best in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day to flourish and produce vibrant blooms.

Soil

Autumn Fire Sedum prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions. It's adaptable to various soil types, including sandy and rocky soils, as long as they are not waterlogged.

Spacing

Space Autumn Fire Sedum plants about 18-24 inches apart. This spacing allows for proper air circulation and growth, ensuring healthy plants.

When to Plant

The best time to plant Autumn Fire Sedum is in the spring after the risk of frost has passed or in the early fall, giving the plant time to establish before winter.

How to Plant

Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the plant in, fill the hole with soil, and water well. It’s beneficial to add a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Plant Care Tips

Watering

Water regularly after planting until established. Once established, Autumn Fire Sedum is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.

Fertilizing

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Pruning

Pruning is not typically required but can be done to shape the plant or remove any damaged stems.

By Season

 

Spring Care

In spring, clear any debris and apply a thin layer of compost or slow-release fertilizer for a nutrient boost.

Summer Care

During summer, water the plant if there are extended periods of drought. Otherwise, minimal care is needed.

Fall Care

Prepare the plant for winter by reducing watering and deadheading spent blooms.

Winter Care

Autumn Fire Sedum is generally hardy and does not require special winter care. Its seed heads can be left on for winter interest.

Plant Alternatives

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Angelina Sedum

Sedum rupestre 'Angelina'

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flowers

Autumn Joy Sedum

Sedum spectabile 'Autumn Joy'

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flowers

Frosted Fire Sedum

Sedum 'Frosted Fire'

View plant

FAQ

How Long Does Autumn Fire Sedum Bloom?

Autumn Fire Sedum typically blooms in late summer to fall, offering a long display of color.

Is Autumn Fire Sedum Deer Resistant?

Yes, Autumn Fire Sedum is generally considered deer resistant due to its succulent foliage.

Can Autumn Fire Sedum Be Grown in Containers?

Absolutely, Autumn Fire Sedum can thrive in containers as long as they have good drainage and are placed in a sunny location. Regular watering and fertilizing are key to maintaining its health in a container setting.

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