Troubleshooting
Stonecrop 'Dragon's Blood' problems — and how to fix them
Stonecrop 'Dragon's Blood' (Phedimus spurius) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Root and crown rot
Caused by waterlogged or heavy, poorly drained soil; always plant in gritty, free-draining conditions.
Loss of red colouring
Shade, overfeeding, or mild growing conditions cause leaves to revert to green; maximise sun exposure and use lean soil.
Invasion of other plants
Vigorous spreading habit can colonise neighbouring plants; trim mat edges annually to control spread.
Aphids
Spring growth may attract aphids; blast off with water or apply insecticidal soap if severe.
Winter wet rot
Prolonged saturated soil in winter kills sections of the mat; ensure drainage and avoid low-lying frost pockets.
Prevent stonecrop 'dragon's blood' problems before they start
Most stonecrop 'dragon's blood' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Stonecrop 'Dragon's Blood' problems — FAQ
Why is my stonecrop 'dragon's blood' root and crown rot?
Caused by waterlogged or heavy, poorly drained soil; always plant in gritty, free-draining conditions.
Why is my stonecrop 'dragon's blood' loss of red colouring?
Shade, overfeeding, or mild growing conditions cause leaves to revert to green; maximise sun exposure and use lean soil.
Why is my stonecrop 'dragon's blood' invasion of other plants?
Vigorous spreading habit can colonise neighbouring plants; trim mat edges annually to control spread.
Why is my stonecrop 'dragon's blood' aphids?
Spring growth may attract aphids; blast off with water or apply insecticidal soap if severe.
Why is my stonecrop 'dragon's blood' winter wet rot?
Prolonged saturated soil in winter kills sections of the mat; ensure drainage and avoid low-lying frost pockets.