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Plant Profiles / Sedum 'Autumn Joy'
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Sedum 'Autumn Joy'
Hylotelephium 'Herbstfreude' · Autumn Joy stonecrop
A fleshy succulent perennial with broccoli-like flower heads that open pink in late summer and deepen to rusty red in autumn. Loved by bees and practically indestructible.
Full sunLight
Fortnightly, drought tolerantWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Six or more hours of sun for compact growth.
Water
Fortnightly, drought tolerant
DryWet
Water occasionally; pots need water in hot weather. Overwatering causes floppy stems.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Prefers dry conditions.
Temperature
Hardy, -35–38°C (-31–100°F)
CoolWarm
Very tough in heat and cold.
Growth
Moderate, clumping
SlowFast
Grows 45–60 cm tall and wide.
Soil
Lean, well-drained
LeanRich
Sandy or gritty soil. Avoid rich soil.
Fertiliser
None
RarelyOften
No fertiliser needed.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
About this plant
'Autumn Joy' (Herbstfreude) is a classic garden succulent. Its grey-green leaves store water, making it extremely drought tolerant. The flower heads look great from bud to dried seedhead, adding interest for months.
Best spots
Sunny balconies, rooftops, rock gardens, borders and pots that dry out quickly.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Hylotelephium 'Herbstfreude' |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Origin | Garden hybrid (Asian parents) |
| Plant type | Herbaceous succulent perennial |
| Mature size | 45–60 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Fleshy grey-green leaves |
| Flowers | Pink heads ageing to rusty red |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Division or stem cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Flowering
Cut back
Divide
Active growthFloweringCut backDivide
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Floppy, splaying stems | Too much water, shade or rich soil. Pinch stems in late spring. |
| Rotting base | Wet soil. Improve drainage. |
| Leaves eaten | Snails; use pet-safe bait. |
| Pale colour | Too much shade. |
| Woody centre | Divide every 3–4 years. |
Common questions
Should I cut it back in autumn?
Leave the dried heads for winter interest and cut back in late winter.
How do I stop it flopping?
Pinch the stems back by half in late spring (the 'Chelsea chop').
Can it grow in a pot?
Yes, it's ideal for hot, sunny pots.
Does it attract bees?
Yes, it's a late-season favourite.
