Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Hylotelephium spectabile 'Autumn Joy'
Autumn Joy Sedum
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Height
- 18–24 inches
- Width
- 18–24 inches
- Flower color
- Clusters of star-shaped flowers that start pale pink and gradually darken to deep rose-red, eventually turning coppery-brown as they age
- Foliage color
- Fleshy gray-green leaves with coarsely toothed margins
- Bloom time
- Late summer to fall
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Drought-tolerant
- Maintenance
- Low; leave seed heads for birds to eat in winter
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3–9
- Wildlife
- Attracts butterflies and birds
About this plant
Hylotelephium spectabile 'Autumn Joy' is a versatile perennial known for its succulent, gray-green leaves and dense, flat-topped clusters of flowers. These bloom from late summer into fall, initially appearing as soft pink buds, then deepening to mauve and rich reddish hues as the season progresses. Native to North America, it thrives in a variety of garden settings, from borders to rock gardens.
What makes 'Autumn Joy' unique is its color transformation, which extends the plant's visual interest into the fall months. Its drought tolerance and adaptability to a range of soil conditions make it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. The flowers also attract pollinators, bringing life and energy to the garden.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Bird Gardens · Waterwise Gardens
Companion plants
Ferns · Astilbes · Foxgloves · Bergenias · Columbines · Lungworts
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.
