Ground Cover - Sedum hakonense 'Chocolate Ball Stonecrop' (4 Inch)

Sedum hakonense 'Chocolate Ball' (4 Inch), commonly known as Chocolate Ball Stonecrop, is a distinctive ground cover plant valued for its rich, chocolate-colored foliage. Its unique coloration and low-maintenance requirements make it an attractive choice for enhancing garden landscapes.

Description:

• Dimensions: Grows to a height of 4-6 inches with a spread of 8-12 inches.
• Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun. Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to achieve optimal color and growth.
• Water Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots, then reduce watering as needed.
• Hardiness Zones: Hardy in Zones 4-9.
• Bloom Time: Blooms in late summer to early fall, producing clusters of small, star-shaped pink to white flowers that attract pollinators.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed. Trim back any dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and encourage new growth.

How to Plant:

• Location: Ideal for garden beds, borders, or as a ground cover in sunny locations. Suitable for rock gardens or containers as well.
• Soil Preparation: Use well-draining soil. Amend with gravel or sand if necessary to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
• Planting: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants 8-12 inches apart to allow for their mature spread and to ensure good coverage.
• Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the first growing season. Once established, water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Fun Fact: Sedum hakonense 'Chocolate Ball' is known for its striking chocolate-brown foliage, which adds a unique touch of color to garden landscapes. The foliage color intensifies in full sun, creating a rich contrast with other plants. Additionally, its late summer blooms attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the garden's ecological value. Its low-growing habit and adaptability to various soil conditions make it an excellent choice for adding both color and texture to garden beds, rock gardens, or containers.