Stonecrop
Sedum makinoi
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Pl. 9039 — Sedum makinoi
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IOverview
Overview
Stonecrop, scientifically known as Sedum makinoi, is a perennial plant native to the southeastern regions of China, Japan, and Korea. This hardy species 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 is known for its edible leaves, which are often used in culinary applications, such as adding a mild flavor to salads. Stonecrop grows to a height of only 0.2 meters and is hardy in zones 8-10, making it a versatile addition to gardens in these climates. In traditional East Asian medicine, Stonecrop has been used to support digestive health and soothe minor skin irritations. The leaves can be consumed as a tea or decoction to help alleviate minor digestive discomfort. Additionally, the plant has been applied topically as a poultice or salve to treat minor skin irritations and wounds, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. While these uses are traditional, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using Stonecrop for medicinal purposes.
Quick answers
What is Stonecrop?
Stonecrop, scientifically known as Sedum makinoi, is a perennial plant native to the southeastern regions of China, Japan, and Korea. This hardy species 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 Stonecrop used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, topical & skin. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Stonecrop
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · traditional-use context
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · traditional-use contextTraditional-use context
These notes are presented as ethnobotanical context. No cited clinical references are catalogued for this plant yet.
- Stonecrop has been traditionally used in East Asian medicine to support digestive health, often consumed as a tea or decoction. It may help alleviate minor digestive discomfort.
The plant contains compounds such as flavonoids and tannins which have shown potential for soothing the gastrointestinal tract. However, specific mechanisms are not well-documented.
▲ ModerateDigestion → - Stonecrop has been traditionally used in East Asian medicine for minor skin irritations and wounds, often applied topically as a poultice or salve. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe irritated skin.
The plant contains compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects. However, the specific mechanism of action for Stonecrop is not fully characterised.
▲ ModerateTopical & skin →
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.
Stonecrop support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Stonecrop (Sedum makinoi) thrives in full sun and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It prefers dry to moist conditions but can tolerate some drought once established. This perennial, which grows to about 0.2 meters tall, is hardy in zones 8-10 and is native to China Southeast, Japan, and Korea. For propagation, gardeners can use division or stem cuttings. The edible parts are the leaves, making this plant a versatile addition to both culinary and ornamental gardens.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Stonecrop for the first time
8steps
Start with Stonecrop (Sedum makinoi) by planting it in a sunny spot and letting nature take its course.
- 1
What you'll need
A small Sedum makinoi plant or seeds, well-draining soil, and a container if needed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soil with good drainage. Ensure containers have holes for excess water.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly into the garden bed where they will grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rot, ensuring the soil is just moist. Keep in a partially shaded area if new.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil feels dry. Prune dead leaves as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape or remove dead foliage, but avoid cutting into live stems.
- 8
Common mistakes
...
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Sedum makinoi, commonly known as Stonecrop, are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild flavor. The plant thrives in full sun and various soil types, making it adaptable in gardens.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
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
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
Native to
XII
About this entry
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