Orange stonecrop
Sedum kamtschaticum
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Pl. 79D3 — Sedum kamtschaticum
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IOverview
Overview
Orange stonecrop (Sedum kamtschaticum) is a perennial plant native to the northern regions of Asia, including Amur, China North-Central, Inner Mongolia, Japan, Kamchatka, Khabarovsk, Korea, Kuril Islands, and parts of Russia. This hardy species thrives in full sun and can tolerate various soil types, from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), making it adaptable in diverse environments. Known for its edible leaves, which are often used in culinary applications, orange stonecrop is also valued for its ornamental qualities due to its compact form and vibrant color. Its ability to grow well in dry to moist conditions and its hardiness ranging from zones 4-10 contribute to its widespread cultivation both in gardens and as a ground cover.
Quick answers
What is Orange stonecrop?
Orange stonecrop (Sedum kamtschaticum) is a perennial plant native to the northern regions of Asia, including Amur, China North-Central, Inner Mongolia, Japan, Kamchatka, Khabarovsk, Korea, Kuril Islands, and parts of Russia.
What is Orange stonecrop used for?
Traditionally used for topical & skin, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Orange stonecrop
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- In traditional medicine, Orange stonecrop is used topically to support skin health and may help soothe minor irritations when applied as a poultice or salve.
The plant's compounds, including flavonoids and tannins, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and irritation. However, the specific mechanisms are not fully characterised.
- Orange stonecrop has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for its immune-supporting properties, often prepared as a decoction to enhance the body's defenses against seasonal ailments.
The plant contains various bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids which may support immune function through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways. However, specific mechanisms are not fully characterised.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Orange stonecrop support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Orange stonecrop thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will benefit from occasional moisture, especially during dry spells. This perennial, hardy in zones 4-10, grows to a height of about 10 cm. For propagation, divide the plant or take leaf cuttings. The leaves are edible and can be used fresh or dried.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.1 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Orange stonecrop for the first time
8steps
Start with Orange stonecrop for a low-maintenance, beginner-friendly project.
- 1
What you'll need
Orange stonecrop plants or seeds, small pots if starting from seed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil; avoid heavy clay. Containers should have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep soil moist but not wet. Place in a sunny spot once outdoors.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil is dry. Prune dead leaves as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape or remove dead foliage; no need for harvesting edible parts.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sun, neglecting to prune dead leaves.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The orange stonecrop's leaves are edible and can be eaten raw or used in salads for a mild, slightly sour flavor. They can also be dried and used as a tea substitute.
Other uses:Ground cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
12 native · 5 introduced
Distribution
12 native · 5 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 12 native· 5 introduced
Europe3 regions
introduced (3)AustriaGermanyNorway
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Sakhalin, Amur, Kamchatka, Khabarovsk, Kuril Is., Magadan, Primorye
introduced:Baltic States, New York
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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