Sedum Lemon Ball is the most popular perennial that we sell at Martin Garden Center due to its eye-catching appearance, easy-to-grow nature, and ability to thrive in various conditions.
The plant belongs to the family Crassulaceae and is known for its small, round, bright yellow-green leaves resembling miniature balls. It is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 4 to 6 inches and a spread of 10 to 12 inches. It has a clumping growth habit and produces small clusters of star-shaped, yellow flowers that bloom in late summer or early fall.
Preferred Growing Conditions
Sedum Lemon Ball is a sun-loving succulent that flourishes when exposed to ample sunlight. Six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal. Inadequate sunlight can lead to elongated and leggy growth, diminishing the plant’s compact and striking form. Well-draining soil is also crucial for the success of Sedum ‘Lemon Ball.’ It thrives in soil that allows water to pass through easily, preventing the risk of root rot. Ensuring proper drainage prevents moisture-related issues and promotes robust root development and overall plant health.
When watering, allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Sedum Lemon Ball prefers to be drier rather than consistently moist. Water the plant thoroughly but infrequently during the growing season, which typically spans from spring to fall. In the dormant winter months, reduce watering to a minimum as the plant’s water requirements decrease.
This sedum variety is adaptable to a range of temperatures. It thrives in average room temperatures and can withstand fluctuations. However, it’s important to protect ‘Lemon Ball’ from extreme cold, as it is not frost-tolerant. If you’re growing it outdoors, be mindful of frosty conditions and provide appropriate protection or bring the plant indoors during winter.
A balanced, diluted fertilizer formulated for succulents can be applied sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) to support healthy growth and coloration. Avoid over-fertilization, as excessive nutrients can lead to overly lush growth that may lose the plant’s characteristic compact form and intense yellow color.
Uses in the Garden
This charming succulent is a remarkable choice for rock gardens, where its low-growing, mounding habit creates a delightful carpet of lemon-yellow foliage. Its striking coloration adds a pop of brightness against the rugged textures of rocks and boulders. As an edging plant, ‘Lemon Ball’ delineates garden beds with a captivating border that remains visually appealing throughout the seasons.
In container gardens, it takes center stage as a solo showstopper or as part of eclectic succulent compositions. Its compact growth habit and eye-catching color make it a favorite for designing captivating potted displays on patios, decks, or balconies. ‘Lemon Ball’ also excels in xeriscaping, where its drought-tolerant nature and low water requirements contribute to water-wise landscaping.