Plate No. 32
Jelly Bean Plant
Sedum rubrotinctum
"Trailing beans tipped in red"
Native to
A cultivated hybrid, presumed Mexican in origin

History
A brief account
Jelly Bean Plant is a playful, easygoing succulent whose plump leaves look like tiny beans hanging from a trailing stem. Its wild origin is uncertain, but it has been in cultivation since the 1930s and is one of the easiest succulents to propagate, with every dropped leaf capable of forming a new plant. In strong light the leaves flush ruby-red, giving it a lively, almost candy-like appearance. Its cheerful look and forgiving nature make it especially appealing as a hanging plant or a beginner favorite.
How to care for
Place Jelly Bean Plant according to its light needs: Full sun deepens the red colour. For watering, every two weeks; let dry fully between waterings. For the potting medium, use standard succulent mix with added grit. Good drainage is essential: let surplus water escape freely and never leave the roots standing in a wet saucer.
10–28°C. Frost-tender. Check the compost before watering instead of following a rigid calendar, since light, temperature, pot size and season all affect how quickly it dries. During slower growth, reduce watering and wait longer between drinks.
How to propagate
Leaves and stems root with the lightest contact with soil. Propagation is most reliable during the plant's active growing season, when warmth and good light help new roots establish. Start with clean tools and healthy material, and keep the new plant in conditions appropriate for the parent.
Where a cutting or division creates a wound, allow the surface to dry before planting unless the method calls for immediate rooting in water or moist mix. Once roots form and fresh growth appears, gradually move the young Jelly Bean Plant into its normal watering routine; excess moisture is especially risky while the root system is still small.
Cultivation
Quick tips for care & planting
- Light
- Full sun deepens the red colour.
- Water
- Every two weeks; let dry fully between waterings.
- Soil
- Standard succulent mix with added grit.
- Temperature
- 10–28°C. Frost-tender.
- Propagation
- Leaves and stems root with the lightest contact with soil.