Sedum spurium ‘Chocolate Blob’ – A Unique Groundcover with Rich, Dark Foliage
Sedum spurium ‘Chocolate Blob’ is a low-growing, mat-forming succulent known for its striking red-brown foliage and clusters of vibrant pink flowers that bloom in late summer and autumn. This perennial stonecrop is highly valued for its drought tolerance, hardiness, and minimal maintenance requirements, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, groundcover, and container plantings. The deep chocolate-hued leaves add a unique contrast to traditional green landscapes, and its trailing growth habit allows it to spill beautifully over walls, pathways, or pots.
Foliage and Growth Habit
The most distinctive feature of ‘Chocolate Blob’ is its richly colored, succulent leaves that develop deep bronze, burgundy, or chocolate tones, intensifying in full sun and cool temperatures.
- Leaf Shape & Color:
- Thick, fleshy, rounded leaves with a scalloped edge.
- Colors range from deep red-brown to chocolate hues, sometimes shifting to burgundy or dark green depending on seasonal changes.
- Growth Habit:
- Forms a low, trailing mat that spreads outward.
- Height: 15–20 cm (6–8 inches).
- Spread: 50 cm (20 inches) or more, creating a dense, weed-suppressing carpet.
- Seasonal Changes:
- Cooler temperatures intensify the rich foliage colors.
- In spring, new growth emerges with a softer bronze tint, gradually deepening into chocolate tones.
Blooming Period and Flowers
In late summer through early autumn, ‘Chocolate Blob’ produces dense clusters of vibrant dark pink, star-shaped flowers, adding a beautiful contrast to the rich, dark foliage. These flowers are not only visually striking but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity.
- Flower Shape & Color:
- Small, five-petaled, star-shaped flowers in dense clusters.
- Color varies from deep pink to magenta, standing out against the dark foliage.
- Pollinator Attraction: Provides nectar-rich blooms for bees and butterflies during late summer when other plants may be fading.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Sunlight Requirements
☀ Full Sun to Partial Shade – Prefers full sun for best foliage color and compact growth. In partial shade, the leaves may remain greener and lose some of their intense chocolate tones.
Soil Preferences
🌱 Well-Draining Soil – Sedum spurium ‘Chocolate Blob’ thrives in sandy, rocky, or gravelly soils that drain quickly.
- Tolerates poor, nutrient-deficient soils, making it ideal for difficult areas.
- Avoids heavy clay or waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot.
Watering Needs
💧 Drought-Tolerant – Once established, it requires minimal watering.
- Water only when the soil is dry to prevent overwatering.
- Can survive extended dry spells but benefits from occasional deep watering in extreme heat.
- In containers, allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Hardiness & Climate Adaptability
❄ Cold-Hardy – Sedum spurium ‘Chocolate Blob’ can tolerate temperatures as low as -5°C
- Survives light frosts but may experience partial dieback in colder winters, regenerating in spring.
- Thrives in coastal, alpine, and arid landscapes, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardens.
Best Uses in Landscaping
✅ Groundcover & Mass Planting – Spreads into a dense mat, preventing weeds.
✅ Rock Gardens & Gravel Beds – Thrives in dry, well-draining conditions.
✅ Pathway Edging & Borders – Adds color contrast along garden edges.
✅ Containers & Hanging Baskets – Ideal for trailing over pots and walls.
✅ Slopes & Erosion Control – Helps stabilize soil on dry, sloped areas.
✅ Pollinator Gardens – Provides a late-season nectar source for beneficial insects.
Care and Maintenance
✂ Pruning & Deadheading:
- Cut back spent flower stems after blooming to encourage new growth.
- Lightly trim leggy stems in spring to maintain a dense, compact form.
🌱 Propagation:
- Stem Cuttings: Simply snip a stem, allow it to dry for a day, and plant in well-draining soil.
- Division: Every 3–4 years, divide mature plants to maintain vigor and expand coverage.
- Self-Spreading: Over time, ‘Chocolate Blob’ spreads naturally through rooting stems, gradually filling in empty spaces.
🐜 Pest & Disease Resistance:
- Highly resistant to pests and diseases, but monitor for occasional aphids or mealybugs.
- Root rot can occur if overwatered – always plant in well-draining soil.
Why Choose ‘Chocolate Blob’?
✔ Unique Chocolate-Colored Foliage – A rare, deep burgundy-brown groundcover.
✔ Drought-Tolerant & Low-Maintenance – Thrives with minimal water and care.
✔ Cold & Heat Hardy – Adaptable to temperate, dry, and coastal climates.
✔ Late-Season Blooms – Adds color when other plants are fading.
✔ Compact & Versatile – Perfect for rock gardens, containers, and pathways.
Sedum Chocolate Blob
Sedum spurium ‘Chocolate Blob’ is an eye-catching, easy-care groundcover that provides stunning dark foliage and seasonal pink flowers with very little maintenance. Whether you need a drought-resistant border plant, a low-maintenance rock garden feature, or an ornamental trailing succulent for containers, this sedum is a standout choice. Its ability to thrive in harsh conditions, poor soil, and hot summers makes it perfect for water-wise landscapes and pollinator-friendly gardens.
