Sedum Lemon Ball is one of the most popular perennials 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.
Sedum Lemon Ball 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.
Growing and Caring For Sedum Lemon Ball
- 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.
Foliage
Sedum Lemon Ball features succulent, rounded leaves that emerge in a brilliant chartreuse or lemon-yellow hue. The foliage forms a dense, low-spreading mat, creating a vibrant carpet of color in garden beds and containers. The succulent nature of the leaves also contributes to the plant’s drought tolerance, making it an excellent choice for water-wise and xeriscape gardens.
As Lemon Ball matures, the foliage retains its lively lemon color throughout the growing season. The leaves are fleshy and have a slightly serrated edge, adding texture to the overall appearance. This sedum variety is valued for its colorful foliage and ability to form a visually appealing ground cover that suppresses weeds.
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.
Is Sedum Lemon Ball A Perennial?
Yes, Sedum Lemon Ball is a perennial plant. As a perennial, Lemon Ball will continue to grow and return each year, provided it is planted in suitable growing conditions and given proper care. This makes it a reliable and long-lasting addition to gardens, particularly where perennials are favored for their low-maintenance and enduring qualities.
Can Sedum Lemon Ball Grow in Partial Shade?
Sedum ‘Lemon Ball’ generally prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Ideally, it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day for optimal growth and coloration. In partial shade, the plant may become leggier, and the vibrant yellow-green color of its foliage might be less pronounced compared to those in full sun.
Do Deer Eat Sedum Lemon Ball?
Sedum Lemon Ball is less likely to be consumed by deer when browsing. The succulent leaves of sedums, including Lemon Ball, often have a texture and taste that deer find unappealing.