Needle stonecrop
Sedum linearefam. Crassulaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified clinician before using any herbal preparation — especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, while on medication, or for children. How we source & review →
Pl. B12E — Sedum lineare
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IOverview
Overview
Needle stonecrop, scientifically known as Sedum lineare, is a perennial herb native to Iran and several regions in China and Japan. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is known for its edible leaves, which are often used in culinary applications. Needle stonecrop's distinctive feature lies in its linear, needle-like leaves that give the plant its name, adding a unique aesthetic appeal to gardens or rockeries.
Quick answers
What is Needle stonecrop?
Needle stonecrop, scientifically known as Sedum lineare, is a perennial herb native to Iran and several regions in China and Japan. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay).
What is Needle 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 Needle stonecrop
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Traditional-use note: Needle stonecrop appears in herbal sources around traditional skin-care routines, often as a topical preparation. PlantSage presents this as ethnobotanical context, not as medical advice.
Traditional context only. This reviewed claim keeps the original moderate confidence level, but avoids treatment, disease, dosage, or guaranteed-effect language.
- Sedum species, including Needle stonecrop, have been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for immune support. A decoction of the leaves may help bolster the body's defenses against common ailments.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but involves bioactive compounds that may modulate immune responses.
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.
Needle stonecrop support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Needle stonecrop thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. The plant is hardy in zones 6-9 and is a perennial that reaches up to 0.3 meters in height. For propagation, gardeners can use division or stem cuttings. Edible parts include the leaves, which are often used in culinary applications.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Needle stonecrop for the first time
8steps
Start with easy care and low maintenance for a successful beginner garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Needle stonecrop plants, well-draining soil, a sunny spot in your garden.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light sandy soil and medium clay for good drainage. Ensure containers have holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nurseries, spacing them 15-20 cm apart in the garden.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly but ensure soil is moist. Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil feels dry. Prune dead leaves as needed for a neat appearance.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain shape and remove any damaged parts.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The needle stonecrop's leaves are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild flavor. The leaves can also be steamed or boiled as a vegetable. Skip the preparation details if you're looking for quick snacks; simply snacking on them fresh is an option too.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 3 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 3 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native· 3 introduced
Asia5 regions
native (3)ChinaIranJapan
introduced (2)GeorgiaVietnam
Broader regions
introduced:Baltic States
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 (Crassulaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Crassulaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
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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- Citation
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