Sedum Rubrotinctum  (Jelly Bean Plant)

Description

The Jelly Bean Plant – the best known name of Sedum Rubrotinctum due to its bean-shaped chubby leaves that crowd its thin stems, Sedum rubrotinctum – grows very close to the ground. It begins its life a light green before turning red in its leaf tips in the sun (which enhances its colors), providing it with a bright, two-tone effect. This succulent, a hybrid whose ancestry is in Mexico, is also sometimes sold as the Pork and Beans succulent, again referring to the round leaf form. As it belongs to a succulent from Mexico, it requires plenty of sun and soil which should dry out completely between waterings.

This Sedum Rubrotinctum succulent will make the perfect small plant for those with a sunny windowsill, balcony, or if someone is searching for a unique addtion to their succulent arrangement. Due to its natural trailing habit when growing the small leaves and the stems will happily cover a shallow dish garden over time or spill out of a small hanging pot. As it's a succulent it also has fantastic water retaining abilities and requires minimal watering, perfect for beginners or people who are busy but would still like a splash of color.

It is shipped bare root, or in its nursery pot with well-draining succulent mix already in it, making it easy to get it into its sunny spot with no additional potting effort. It is best known for the fun shape and color of its leaves rather than for its flowers, though older plants might surprise you with small yellow flowers in the springtime. It’s a good solo addition or could provide contrast in an arrangement of other succulents.

Key features

• Beady bean shape with bright red tips in high light creating an interesting two tone look. 
• Low growing with a trailing habit perfect for dish gardens, rockeries, miniature hanging planters and the like. 
• As a succulent these leaves store water and will tolerate periods without water between irrigations.
• Little day to day care once in a sunny location with the proper watering. 
• Can bloom sporadically in spring with tiny yellow star shaped flowers
• Spread the same easily through its dropped leaves and stem cuttings over time to grow more plants with no extra cost.
• The color and texture will make a dramatic and contrasting look when planted among green succulent plants.

Care at a glance

Product specifications

What's in the box

• 1 × Live Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)
• 1 × Nursery pot (Bare-rooted / Pot: Optional)
• Well-draining potting mix
• Basic care guide

Important notes

• Due to the natural, living product the leaves and level of green to red color can vary from plant to plant due to the conditions it has been exposed to. 
• The leaves are very fragile and will detach with little handling. Some leaf loss during transport is expected, the plant will typically recover within a 1-2 weeks when given a bright position.
• Don't directly place it into the direct intense sunlight after you un-pack it, It needs a few days for it to get accustomed. 
• Unfortunately, overwatering is the main killer for this species. Water only once you know the soil has completely dried out.
• Leaf colour often softens to green in lower light levels and becomes stronger again with more light – this is a completely normal reaction and is not a problem for the health of the plant.
• There are conflicting reports about whether this plant is toxic. The sap can cause irritation for some individuals and so, as a precaution, it’s advisable to keep it away from pets and small children.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Why is my Jelly Bean Plant shedding leaves?

A: The leaves are quite tender, so it’s easy for them to fall off with handling, being shipped or if you accidentally brush against it. This is very typical for this type of plant, so as long as no other issues arise, your plant is usually fine. 

Q: When should I water Sedum Rubrotinctum?

A: This plant prefers to be completely dry between watering sessions, usually once the soil is dry, around every 10-14 days indoors when it’s growing, and less frequently during the winter season.

Q: Will it grow well indoors?

A: Yes, provided it gets several hours of bright light throughout the day – any morning or late afternoon direct sun is ideal. In permanently poor light, its red coloring will start to fade and the plant will slow down. 

Q: Does it need direct sun for red tips?

A: Some full sun is necessary for best red tip colour, although full sun at midday on a very hot summer day could potentially scorch the leaves a bit.

Q: How fast does Sedum Rubrotinctum grow?

A: Slow to moderately growing. Stems will slowly lengthen during the growing season and will then begin to trail down the edge of the pot. 

Q: Is this plant harmful to pets?

A: Information on whether this plant is pet safe is conflicting, some stating it is non toxic while others warn against ingestion or chewing as it is mildly toxic. As a safe measure, keep out of reach of pets or small children.