Sedum Alice Evans (Cactus)

Botanical Name and Family
Botanical Name: Sedum Alice Evans
Family: Crassulaceae

Botanical Characteristics
Height: Typically grows up to 6 inches (15 cm) in height.
Shape: Forms a low-growing, spreading mat. It has a dense, ground-covering growth habit.
Leaves: Small, fleshy, and oval-shaped leaves that are blue-green to pale green. The leaves are often tightly packed along the stems and may take on a pinkish hue in bright light or cooler temperatures.
Stems: Short and trailing, often rooting where they touch the ground.
Flowers: Produces star-shaped, white to pale pink flowers in clusters. Blooming occurs in late spring to early summer.
Fruits: Not typically noted for its fruit production.

Natural Habitat
Native Range: While specific information on the cultivar ‘Alice Evans’ might be limited, Sedum species are generally native to the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in North America and Europe. They thrive in rocky, well-drained soils and often in alpine or subalpine regions.

Growth Requirements
Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal for maintaining compact growth and vibrant foliage color.
Water: Requires minimal watering. Water thoroughly but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. It is drought-tolerant and should not be overwatered.
Soil: Prefers well-draining soil. A sandy or gritty succulent or cactus mix is ideal. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Temperature: Thrives in a wide range of temperatures. Ideal temperature range is between 60-80°F (15-27°C). It can tolerate cooler temperatures and is frost hardy to some extent, making it suitable for outdoor cultivation in many climates.
Humidity: Prefers low humidity. It is well-suited to dry environments and should be kept in well-ventilated areas to avoid excess moisture.

Cultivation Methods
Soil: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Adding sand or perlite can improve drainage.
Watering: Water thoroughly when the soil is dry. During the growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently, but reduce watering significantly in the winter when the plant is dormant.
Lighting: Provide full sun to partial shade. Place in a sunny window or under grow lights if grown indoors.

Care Recommendations
Propagation: Can be propagated through stem or leaf cuttings. Allow cuttings to callous over for a few days before planting in a well-draining soil mix. It can also be propagated by division of the clumps.
Fertilization: Feed with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Fertilize once a month or less frequently.
Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests but can occasionally encounter issues with mealybugs or aphids. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure good air circulation and avoid waterlogged soil.

Special Contents
Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Various Uses
Applications: Popular as an ornamental plant for rock gardens, succulent gardens, and container planting. It is valued for its attractive foliage, low maintenance, and drought tolerance.
Indoor and Outdoor: Can be grown both indoors and outdoors, provided it receives adequate light and proper soil conditions.

Challenges and Limitations
Issues: Sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Requires well-draining soil and minimal watering. It may struggle in low light conditions.