Biting Stonecrop

Scientific Name: 
Sedum acre

Biting Stonecrop is a mat-forming plant that is common on well-drained ground such as sand dunes, shingle, grasslands, walls and pavements. It has yellow, star-shaped flowers that appear from May to July and fleshy leaves that have a biting hot taste. It attracts many bees in search of nectar.

How to identify: 
Biting Stonecrop displays dense clusters of small, star-shaped, yellow flowers with long stamens. The succulent leaves are egg-shaped and crowded together.
Where to find it: 
Scattered across all parts of the UK, but most common in England and Wales.
How people can help: 

The Wildlife Trusts look after many coastal habitats for the benefit of all kinds of plants and wildflowers, and are working closely with farmers, landowners and developers to promote wildlife-friendly practices in these areas. We have a vision of a 'Living Landscape': a network of habitats and wildlife corridors across town and country, which are good for both wildlife and people. You can support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.

Statistics: 
Height: up to 10cm
Conservation status: 
Common.
Did you know?: 
Sedums, such as Biting Stonecrop, are popular garden plants and can be planted in the barest of soils, along walls, in rockeries or in containers. They attract plenty of insect interest.
Seasons: 
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
When to see
Start date: 
January
End date: 
December
Image: 
Biting stonecrop - Philip Precey