Blue Tears Corsican Stonecrop

Blue Tears Corsican Stonecrop (Sedum dasyphyllum 'Blue Tears') is a tiny, semi trailing succulent with blue green leaves that form mounded rosettes only 10 to 15cm high. It looks delicate but comes from high mountains and sea cliffs, and it takes full sun, exposure and poor soil in its stride. White starry flowers cover it in summer, and the leaves flush pink in winter or extended dry spells.

Why you'll love it

• Blue foliage. Tiny blue green leaves form tight mounded rosettes, a cool colour for rockeries and pots.
• Colour that changes. Leaves take on pink tones in winter or dry spells, and starry white flowers hide the foliage in summer.
• Truly tough. It is completely frost hardy and comes from mountain and sea cliff habitats, so cold, wind, sun and rocky soil all suit it.
• Very frugal with water. It wants a good soak now and then in the growing season and very little in winter.
• Fits tight spaces. Its small, semi trailing habit works in rockeries, pots, hanging baskets, walls and roof gardens.

Where it works best

Rockeries and waterwise beds. Plant 20cm apart so the rosettes knit into a carpet between stones and around the base of taller succulents.

Pots and hanging baskets. Combine it with larger succulents in a shallow bowl, or let it spill over the edge of a basket in a bright position.

Coastal and roof gardens. Wind, bright light and shallow, sandy or rocky soil are what it wants, which is why it suits exposed coastal spots and rooftops.

Growing Blue Tears Corsican Stonecrop in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun, in bright light all day. It is completely frost hardy and handles heat as long as the soil drains well, so cold is no concern. In humid districts with wet summers, a pot or a raised, gritty bed keeps the roots dry.

Soil. Free draining, gritty soil. Rocky and sandy ground, exposed sites and shallow pockets between stones suit it.

Water and feed. In the warmer growing months give it a good soak every now and then, and water if the leaves soften, droop or wrinkle in extended heat. In winter, squeeze a leaf gently and water only if it does not feel firm.

Pruning. No pruning is needed, and it is best not to over-handle it. If stems break, push them into the soil or pot and they may well root.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Blue Tears Corsican Stonecrop as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives small and compact, so plant it out in gritty soil soon after delivery, water it in lightly and then hold back until the leaves feel soft.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse succulents
• More rockery plants
• Succulents for hot climates
• Succulents in Australia: a complete care guide

Common questions

Why are the leaves turning pink?

That is normal. Cold weather and extended dry spells bring out pink tones in the leaves, and it is not a sign of ill health.

How often should I water it?

A good soak now and then in the warmer months, and in winter only enough to keep the leaves firm. If a leaf feels soft or wrinkled when squeezed gently, it is time to water.

Can I grow it in a pot?

Yes. Use a gritty, free draining mix in a shallow pot, place it in bright light and keep it on the dry side.