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Key characteristics

Family: Crassulaceae
Height: 2 to 4 inches
Width: 12 to 24 inches, spreads as a groundcover
Flower color: Yellow
Foliage color: Green in summer, turning reddish-bronze in fall
Bloom time: Mid to late summer
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Low; drought-tolerant
Maintenance: Low; minimal care
Growing zone: USDA Zones 4 to 9
Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Groundcovers

Sedum tetractinum ‘Coral Reef’

Chinese Stonecrop

Sedum tetractinum 'Coral Reef' is a low-growing succulent prized for its vibrant foliage and spreading habit. Its fleshy, rounded leaves are a bright green during the growing season, turning to bronze or red hues in cooler weather, giving the plant its "coral reef" name. In summer, 'Coral Reef' produces clusters of star-shaped, yellow flowers, adding a bright contrast to its rich foliage.

Originating from China, this sedum is well-suited for rock gardens, ground covers, or as a filler in container gardens.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Low; drought-tolerant

Bloom time

Mid to late summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Rock Gardens
Pathways & Walkways
Slopes & Banks
Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Candytufts · Rockroses · Penstemon · Yarrows · Thymes · Feather reed grass

Design tip

Emphasize seasonal change by pairing this groundcover with plants that hold steady green or blue foliage throughout the year. The shifting bronze tones create natural contrast and keep sunny borders, rock gardens, and slopes visually engaging from season to season.