Quick Guide: summer, hardy, full sun, height: 10cm/4in, width: 30cm/12in

Sedum spurium (above) belongs to the large family of succulent plants which includes biting stonecrop, S. acre, and that stalwart of the border S. spectabile, so attractive to bees. This diminutive perennial species bears deep pink star-shaped flowers on red stems. The rounded leaves cluster low and spread wide, giving ground cover that is both effective and attractive. Unlike S. acre, it is not invasive.

GROWING Plant in well-drained soil between autumn and spring. Full sun is essential. Like most sedums, S. spurium is drought-resistant. Do not remove the dead stems after flowering. Wait until spring when they can be picked off easily.

PROPAGATION Division is an easy and reliable method of increasing your stock. Divide and replant between autumn and spring.

VARIETIES `Album', white; `Schorbusser Blut', deep red, early flowering.

POSSIBLE PROBLEMS Aphids on stems and leaves; slugs may eat foliage.