Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry' is a newly introduced small or miniature perennial succulent plant, a hybrid variety. Its appearance is somewhat similar to "Rainbow Jade," but it has a smaller and more compact rosette, with densely packed, crystal-clear round or oval-shaped leaves (small berries) clustered together like a string of miniature grapes, which is quite adorable. The color of the red berries is also quite rich, ranging from jelly-like colors, bright red, pink, brownish-purple, to bluish-green, with a better glossiness and transparency compared to "Rainbow Jade," making it far superior in terms of ornamental value. The stems are slender, with young stems being red and old stems being grayish-green or gray-brown. They readily produce aerial roots and side shoots, often creeping and forming attractive clumps or beautiful groupings in pots.
Growing Environment:
Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry' is robust and relatively easy to cultivate. It prefers environments with ample sunlight and good ventilation but can also tolerate semi-shaded conditions. It is a winter type plant, with a growth temperature range of 5-30 degrees Celsius. Spring and autumn are the growing seasons. Even in winter and summer, as long as there are no adverse weather conditions, it can be maintained outdoors. However, it's important to remember that when the temperature drops below 5 degrees Celsius or rises above 30 degrees Celsius, watering should be adjusted accordingly. During hot summers, shading and ventilation measures should be taken. During the plum rain and thunderstorm seasons, rain protection measures should be implemented. In severe freezing or heavy snow in winter, it can be temporarily moved indoors for protection. Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry' prefers well-draining sandy loam soil. Both self-prepared and commercially available succulent potting mixes can be used.
Sunlight:
Sunlight is crucial for Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry', not only because it prefers sunlight, but also because its vibrant red coloration is only achieved under two conditions: adequate sunlight and sufficient day-night temperature difference. The colors of Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry' vary, with the most desirable being jelly-like, followed by pink, brownish-purple, bluish-green, and others. To achieve the transparent texture and color of jelly, Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry' should be placed in the area with the most sunlight. If possible, outdoor placement or on open balconies is recommended because it provides ample sunlight and the greatest day-night temperature difference, ensuring that your Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry' becomes increasingly vibrant and beautiful. Except during the peak of summer when shading is necessary, Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry' can receive direct sunlight in other seasons.
Repotting:
Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry' grows relatively fast and needs repotting every 1-2 years. When repotting large Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry' plants, it's advisable to use a potting mix with a higher proportion of granular soil, around 60-70%, as granular soil helps in shaping.
Watering:
Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry' is highly drought-tolerant, so watering during the maintenance period does not need to be too frequent. Even during the peak growth season, water should be applied according to the "dry to wet" method. It prefers a slightly warmer environment, so it's best to move it indoors in winter. During hot summers, adequate ventilation is essential.
Potting Mix:
Choose small and delicate pots for growing Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry', preferably in light colors to better highlight its color and brightness. As for the potting mix, granular soil is most suitable. For potted plants, it's important to provide nutrients to the soil. You can choose loose and fertile pine needle soil and add some granular perlite and pumice to enhance the soil's air permeability and water retention. Mixing in some garden soil is also recommended. Additionally, bone meal can be added to ensure long-lasting soil fertility, promoting the growth of aerial roots and side branches, and achieving the effect of bursting the pot more quickly.
Fertilization:
Sedum rubrotinctum 'Redberry' grows relatively fast and is a prolific succulent plant. It requires a large amount of nutrients during the growing process. You can add a small amount of compound fertilizer or organic liquid fertilizer when watering, applying it every half month according to the principle of thin fertilization and frequent application. However, fertilization should be avoided during hot summers and cold winters to prevent fertilizer damage.