Tired of a lackluster garden that lacks color and life? Are you dreaming of a space that’s not only beautiful but also attracts delightful butterflies? If so, you’re in the right place! We understand the frustration of trying to create a thriving garden, especially when you want to attract those fluttering beauties.
This guide is designed to help you transform your outdoor space into a vibrant butterfly sanctuary. We’ll delve into the world of the captivating butterfly stonecrop plant and explore everything you need to know, from selecting the right varieties to providing the ideal growing conditions. Get ready to learn about these gorgeous plants and how they can bring your garden to life.
The 10 Butterfly Stonecrop Plant Reviewed
1. Sedum Sieboldii #1 Size Root
We’ve worked with Sedum Sieboldii, also known as October Daphne, for years, and this #1 size root is a solid starting point. The roots arrive looking healthy and ready to plant, which is crucial for successful establishment. You’ll notice the distinct, rounded, blue-green leaves of this variety almost immediately after planting.
This particular Sedum is a low-maintenance superstar. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for rock gardens or container plantings. We’ve found that it’s surprisingly drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering, which is a huge bonus for busy gardeners.
The pink flowers that bloom in late summer add a delightful touch of color to the late-season garden. They’re not the main attraction, but they’re a lovely bonus. The overall compact growth habit of Sedum Sieboldii makes it an excellent choice for edging borders or cascading over walls.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: We recently used this Sedum to create a small, low-water garden bed in front of a client’s house. The client wanted something beautiful and required minimal care. After planting, the Sedum quickly filled in, creating a lush, textural ground cover that was incredibly visually appealing. The client was thrilled with the results and the ease of maintenance.
Pros
- Healthy, established root system.
- Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant.
- Beautiful blue-green foliage and pink flowers.
Cons
- May require initial watering to establish.
2. Perfect Plants Royal Red Butterfly Bush 1 Gallon
The Royal Red Butterfly Bush from Perfect Plants is a showstopper. We’ve grown many butterfly bushes, and this one consistently delivers vibrant, deep red blooms that attract butterflies like crazy. The one-gallon size is a good starting point, providing a decent-sized plant ready to take off.
You’ll love the long bloom season, which provides continuous color throughout summer and into early fall. The fragrance is another delightful feature, adding a sweet scent to your garden that’s enjoyable to be around. It’s a great choice for attracting pollinators and creating a lively garden atmosphere.
This butterfly bush prefers full sun and well-drained soil, so ensure proper placement for optimal growth. Regular pruning after the flowering season will encourage even more blooms the following year. It is a fantastic choice for adding height and drama to your landscape.
Who is this specifically for? This butterfly bush is ideal for anyone who wants to create a butterfly garden or attract more pollinators to their space. It’s perfect for both experienced gardeners and beginners looking for a beautiful, low-effort plant that makes a big impact. It adds great visual interest and supports local wildlife.
Pros
- Vibrant red blooms that attract butterflies.
- Long bloom season and delightful fragrance.
- Relatively easy to grow and maintain.
Cons
- Requires full sun for optimal flowering.
3. Seed Needs Milkweed Seeds for Planting a Butterfly Garden
If you’re serious about creating a butterfly garden, Seed Needs Milkweed Seeds are an essential. We’ve used these seeds extensively, and they’re a reliable way to introduce milkweed, the host plant for Monarch butterflies, into your garden. We’ve found the germination rates to be quite good when following the recommended guidelines.
Planting milkweed is crucial for supporting Monarch butterfly populations, as their caterpillars rely on it as their primary food source. We’ve found the satisfaction of watching Monarchs lay eggs on our milkweed plants to be immeasurable. This seed packet makes it easy to get started with this important conservation effort.
Consider pairing these milkweed seeds with plants like the butterfly stonecrop plant to create a diverse and thriving butterfly habitat. The combination will provide both food sources and nectar sources. Remember that milkweed prefers full sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: We recently helped a local school create a butterfly garden using these seeds. The children were thrilled to learn about the Monarch butterfly life cycle and watch the caterpillars grow. We planted the milkweed alongside some flowering plants and the kids loved observing the butterflies enjoying the new habitat. This experience highlights the educational value and community impact of using these seeds.
Pros
- Essential for attracting Monarch butterflies.
- Easy to plant and relatively low-maintenance.
- Contributes to butterfly conservation efforts.
Cons
- Germination can be slow.
4. Blue Butterfly Bush
The Blue Butterfly Bush is another winner when it comes to attracting butterflies. We’ve always been impressed with the vibrant blue-purple flowers that bloom profusely throughout the summer. These blooms provide a stunning visual display and a reliable source of nectar for butterflies.
This variety is a good choice for adding color and texture to your garden. The plant’s size and shape make it versatile, suitable for planting in borders, as a specimen plant, or even in containers. The fragrant flowers also make it a pleasure to have near patios or seating areas.
You’ll find that this butterfly bush is relatively easy to care for, requiring full sun and well-drained soil. Regular pruning will help maintain its shape and encourage even more abundant flowering. It’s a reliable performer that adds a touch of elegance to any garden.
Who is this specifically for? This is a great choice for gardeners who want a beautiful, low-maintenance plant that also benefits pollinators. Whether you are new to gardening or are an experienced gardener, this plant will be a welcome addition. It’s especially useful for gardeners who want to attract butterflies and other pollinators.
Pros
- Vibrant blue-purple flowers.
- Attracts butterflies with ease.
- Easy to care for and versatile in the garden.
Cons
- May require some pruning to maintain shape.
5. Perennial Farm Marketplace Sedum Sunsparkler ‘wildfire’ Groundcover, 1 Quart
The Sedum Sunsparkler ‘Wildfire’ from Perennial Farm Marketplace is a fantastic choice for ground cover. We’ve used this variety extensively, and its vibrant rose-colored foliage is a real standout. The compact size and spreading habit make it perfect for filling in spaces and adding texture to your garden.
You’ll love how low-maintenance this plant is; it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It’s also drought-tolerant once established, so it’s a great option for water-wise gardens. The foliage retains its color throughout the growing season, providing continuous visual interest. (See Also: Best Palm Tree Plants: Artificial & Live Options)
The pink flowers that appear in late summer and early fall are an added bonus, attracting pollinators and extending the season of interest. Consider pairing it with other plants, perhaps even the butterfly stonecrop plant for a complementary look. It’s a reliable performer and a beautiful addition to any landscape.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: We incorporated this Sedum into a rock garden we designed. We used it on a slope to prevent erosion and create a lovely visual display. The vibrant foliage contrasted beautifully with the rocks and other plants. The client was delighted with the results, and the low-maintenance aspect made it a winner for them.
Pros
- Vibrant rose-colored foliage.
- Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant.
- Compact size, perfect for ground cover.
Cons
- Requires full sun for best color.
6. Gardeners Basics Milkweed Seeds for Monarch Butterflies
We’ve extensively used milkweed seeds, and these from Gardeners Basics are a solid choice for attracting Monarch butterflies. Planting these seeds is a rewarding experience, knowing you’re contributing to the survival of these beautiful creatures. The showy variety, in particular, will brighten up any garden space, offering vibrant blooms that are a feast for the eyes.
The germination rates were quite good, especially when following the provided instructions carefully. Milkweed is essential for Monarch caterpillars, and successfully growing these plants is a crucial step. We recommend starting indoors a few weeks before the last frost for the best results, giving the seedlings a head start.
Growing milkweed provides a unique opportunity to educate children about the butterfly life cycle. Watching the caterpillars munch on the leaves, form a chrysalis, and emerge as butterflies is an unforgettable experience. The joy of seeing Monarchs fluttering around your garden, thanks to your efforts, is immeasurable.
This is specifically for anyone who wants to create a Monarch butterfly habitat. Imagine your backyard transformed into a sanctuary, a place where these magnificent insects can thrive. You’ll be spending your afternoons watching the butterflies visit, knowing you have created a haven for these creatures.
Pros
- Easy to grow with good germination rates.
- Provides essential food source for Monarch caterpillars.
- Adds beauty to the garden with vibrant blooms.
Cons
- Requires some patience and care during the initial stages.
- May need protection from pests.
7. Perennial Farm Marketplace Sedum ‘autumn Joy’ Groundcover
The ‘Autumn Joy’ sedum from Perennial Farm Marketplace is a robust and reliable groundcover, perfect for adding late-season color to your garden. Its ability to thrive with minimal care is a major advantage, making it ideal for busy gardeners or those new to gardening. The size of the plant is also appropriate; not too overwhelming.
You will love the way the foliage changes throughout the seasons. The fleshy leaves provide textural interest, and the blooms in late summer and fall bring a burst of pink that contrasts beautifully with other plants. The ‘Autumn Joy’ sedum is also very drought tolerant once established, making it a great choice for water-wise gardens.
We found that this sedum plant is exceptionally versatile. It can be used in a variety of settings, from borders and rock gardens to containers and slopes. It attracts pollinators, including butterflies, adding more life to your outdoor space, and it’s a great companion to the butterfly stonecrop plant.
For those looking for low-maintenance beauty, this is a fantastic choice. Imagine a garden that continues to look good even as the season winds down. This plant delivers that, providing reliable color and texture when many other plants are fading. The plant’s sturdy structure also adds a touch of architectural interest to the landscape.
Pros
- Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant.
- Provides late-season color.
- Attracts pollinators.
Cons
- May spread if not contained.
- Can be susceptible to certain pests.
8. Seed Needs Sedum Seeds for Planting Dragon’s Blood Groundcover Succulents
Seed Needs offers ‘Dragon’s Blood’ sedum seeds, which are a great option if you enjoy groundcover succulents. We have planted these seeds and found them to be relatively easy to germinate, providing a vibrant carpet of color. The deep red foliage provides a striking contrast in any garden setting. The success rate is also surprisingly good.
The ‘Dragon’s Blood’ sedum is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in various conditions. It’s a fantastic choice for areas where other plants struggle. The spreading habit makes it a great groundcover, suppressing weeds and creating a visually appealing landscape. It’s ideal for slopes or rock gardens.
We’ve found that this is perfect for someone who wants to create a low-maintenance, colorful ground cover. Picture a rock garden, cascading with the deep red foliage of the ‘Dragon’s Blood’ sedum. The vibrant color adds a lot of visual appeal, and the plants require very little attention once established. The easy care is a big plus.
For those who love succulents, this is a must-try. The seeds are easy to sow, and the resulting plants are drought-tolerant and resilient. This sedum will flourish in full sun, making it perfect for hot, dry locations. Its vibrant color makes it a striking addition to any garden.
Pros
- Easy to germinate and grow.
- Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.
- Provides vibrant red foliage.
Cons
- May spread aggressively.
- Can be slow to establish.
9. Autumn Joy Stonecrop, Pink/showy/butterfly Stonecrop, Live Forever
The Autumn Joy Stonecrop is a classic, and this one delivers on its promises. We have observed this plant, and it provides a reliable display of late-season color with its attractive pink blooms. The plant is very easy to care for and is drought tolerant once established. This one is a consistent performer.
You will appreciate the way this plant attracts butterflies to your garden. The nectar-rich flowers are a favorite of many pollinators, bringing life and activity to your outdoor space. The plant’s sturdy stems also stand up well to wind and rain, so it always looks good, even in challenging conditions.
We found that this is a great choice for beginners due to its low-maintenance requirements. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it adaptable to many garden settings. The plant’s ability to live forever, as the name suggests, makes it a valuable addition to your garden.
This is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of color and interest to their garden in the late season. Imagine your garden still vibrant and alive when other plants are starting to fade. The Autumn Joy Stonecrop will thrive, providing beautiful blooms and attracting butterflies, keeping your garden beautiful longer.
Pros
- Attracts butterflies.
- Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant.
- Provides late-season color.
Cons
- Can be prone to pests.
- May need to be divided every few years.
10. Stonecrop ‘neon’, Showy Stonecrop, Butterfly Stonecrop, Bright Pink Stonecrop
The ‘Neon’ stonecrop is a standout performer in any garden. We have planted this and found the bright pink blooms to be truly eye-catching. The color is exceptionally vivid and provides a stunning contrast against the green foliage. The plant’s ability to attract butterflies makes it a valuable addition to any pollinator garden. (See Also: Best Weatherproof Plant Markers for Your Garden)
You will immediately notice the way this plant adds vibrancy to your garden. The bright pink flowers provide a long-lasting display that continues well into the fall. The plant’s compact size makes it suitable for a variety of locations, from borders to containers. The plant’s form is also quite appealing.
We found this plant to be a real conversation starter. The vibrant color and attractive blooms draw attention and create a focal point in any garden. This plant is especially great in a mixed border, where it can provide a burst of color when other plants are fading. The butterflies love it too!
This is for those who love bright, bold colors. Imagine a garden bursting with the neon pink blooms of this stonecrop. It provides a visual feast that will brighten up any outdoor space. The long bloom time ensures a continuous display of beauty, providing color well into the fall season. This plant makes a statement.
Pros
- Bright, eye-catching pink blooms.
- Attracts butterflies and pollinators.
- Long bloom time.
Cons
- May be susceptible to pests.
- Can be a little slow to establish.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Sun Exposure | Mature Height | Bloom Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sedum Sieboldii #1 Size Root | Full Sun | 6-12 inches | Late Summer/Fall |
| Perfect Plants Royal Red Butterfly Bush 1 Gallon | Full Sun | 6-8 feet | Summer/Fall |
| Seed Needs Milkweed Seeds for Planting a Butterfly Garden | Full Sun | 3-5 feet | Summer |
| Blue Butterfly Bush | Full Sun | 4-5 feet | Summer/Fall |
| Perennial Farm Marketplace Sedum Sunsparkler ‘Wildfire’ Groundcover, 1 Quart | Full Sun | 4-6 inches | Late Summer/Fall |
| Gardeners Basics Milkweed Seeds for Monarch Butterflies | Full Sun | 3-5 feet | Summer |
| Perennial Farm Marketplace Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ Groundcover | Full Sun | 18-24 inches | Late Summer/Fall |
| Seed Needs Sedum Seeds for Planting Dragon’s Blood Groundcover Succulents | Full Sun | 6-12 inches | Summer |
| Autumn Joy Stonecrop, Pink/Showy/Butterfly Stonecrop, Live Forever | Full Sun | 18-24 inches | Late Summer/Fall |
| Stonecrop ‘Neon’, Showy Stonecrop, Butterfly Stonecrop, Bright Pink Stonecrop | Full Sun | 12-18 inches | Late Summer/Fall |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Sun Does a Butterfly Stonecrop Need?
Butterfly stonecrop needs full sun. That means at least six hours of direct sunlight. This is crucial for their vibrant colors.
Without enough sun, the plant becomes leggy and blooms less.
How Often Should I Water My Butterfly Stonecrop?
Water your Butterfly Stonecrop moderately. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Drought-tolerant once established, they don’t need frequent watering.
What Kind of Soil Is Best for Butterfly Stonecrop?
Well-draining soil is best. They tolerate poor soil conditions. Avoid soil that is too rich or stays wet.
Amend heavy clay soil to improve drainage. Use organic matter or sand.
When Does Butterfly Stonecrop Bloom?
They typically bloom in late summer or early fall. Bloom times can vary. Different varieties may have different bloom times.
Enjoy the late-season flowers of your stonecrop plant.
Are Butterfly Stonecrops Deer Resistant?
Yes, Butterfly Stonecrops are generally deer resistant. This makes them a great choice. They are not a preferred food source.
This makes them suitable for gardens prone to deer browsing.
How Can I Propagate Butterfly Stonecrop?
You can propagate them easily through stem cuttings. Take cuttings in spring or early summer. Allow the cuttings to callus over.
Then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until roots develop.
What Pests or Diseases Affect Butterfly Stonecrop?
They are generally pest and disease resistant. Aphids can sometimes be a problem. Root rot can occur in poorly drained soil.
Inspect plants regularly and address any issues promptly.
Final Verdict
For vibrant color and easy care, choose the ‘Autumn Joy’ variety. Its reliable blooms and robust nature make it a top choice. It adds beauty to any garden.
