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Sedum (Hylotelephium) 'NIGHT EMBERS' stonecrop, orpine
Sedum
Stonecrops (orpines) are well-known and cherished plants, fondly remembered by our grandparents' gardens. They have fleshy leaves and bloom from spring to autumn depending on the species and cultivar. The genus Hylotelephium includes approximately 33 species of succulent perennials found across the temperate regions of Asia, Europe, and North America. These are taller varieties, sometimes called "stemmed" types, with abundant flower clusters appearing from summer into fall. Carl Linnaeus had already classified them as individual species in 1753, but their separation into the genus Hylotelephium didn’t occur until 1977, thanks to Japanese botanist Hideaki Ohba, who pointed out striking morphological differences. The name is derived from Greek: hylo- meaning forest and telephium referring to the mythical Telephus, son of Heracles, who was wounded by Achilles' spear. His injury, according to legend, didn’t heal until treated with rust scraped from that very weapon – symbolizing paradoxical healing. This theme echoes in folk uses of stonecrop, which was traditionally applied to wounds, especially stubborn ones.
Are you drawn to bold garden structure? They’re called “architectural features” for a reason. 😊 Night Embers stonecrop demands attention even from a distance – it stands like a dark sculpture among pastel-toned perennials. Its undeniable focal point is the foliage: plum-purple to almost black, fleshy, ovate to rounded leaves with striking metallic sheen – neither glossy nor matte. They grow along fleshy stems reaching 50–60 cm tall, topped by rounded clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that appear in late summer. They are dusty pink to light mauve which makes a stunning contrast against dark backgrounds, like flames glowing in twilight.
The plant grows upright, forming a narrow vase-shaped clump about 50–60 cm wide when mature and maintains a tidy form without flopping. The foliage is highly resistant to powdery mildew, so spraying is rarely necessary. Its nectar-rich flowers attract bees and provide vital forage at the start of autumn. They bloom for roughly six weeks before the flower heads begin to dry. If you don’t mind their faded look and the stems remain firm, leave them on the plant—they decorate autumn beds beautifully when covered in hoar.
This cultivar was bred by American perennial guru Hans A. Hansen from Walters Gardens in Michigan and is protected under patent no. PP29211 from 2018. Night Embers loves full sun, where its colours shine brightest, and thrives with minimal watering, making it an excellent partner for drought-loving plants. For maximum effect, use bold contrast – think silver foliage like Santolina, Helichrysum or Artemisia. Garden classics such as brightly coloured Echinacea or compact rockery friends like Delosperma, Dianthus, or low-growing Gypsophila are great matches. You can also play with texture by adding smaller drought-tolerant grasses like steel-blue, beige, or fresh green Festuca.
It needs very well-drained soil and doesn’t tolerate excess moisture – heavy soil or constantly wet spots may cause root and stem rot. Beyond that, care is minimal: no fertilizing, pruning, or winter protection required. In spring, remove old stems by cutting them close to the ground and allow fresh growth to emerge from below. Don't snap the stems off—use pruning shears to avoid damaging new buds forming at the base, often already present from the previous autumn. Watch out for slugs and act promptly if they appear. Night Embers is hardy down to approx. –40 °C (USDA zone 3).
Last update 25-07-2025
