Jelly Bean Plant
Sedum rubrotinctum
Sedum rubrotinctum, also called Jelly Bean Plant or Pork and Beans, is a playful Mexican succulent with plump, bean-shaped leaves on sprawling stems. Leaf tips blush crimson and bronze in strong sun, while lower light keeps them greener. It is an easy windowsill or rocky-garden plant.
Light
Full Sun
Water
Low
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
Low
Pet Warning
The Jelly Bean Plant is considered toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Additionally, the sap contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause mild skin irritation for some humans.
Care Notes
Light
For the classic jelly bean colors, give at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. In weak light, stems stretch and the red tips fade.
Water
Soak until water runs from the drainage holes, then let the soil dry fully before watering again. In winter dormancy, water only enough to keep leaves from shriveling.
Soil
Use a cactus or succulent mix in a terracotta pot with drainage holes. Porous clay helps moisture leave the soil instead of lingering around the roots.
Humidity and Temperature
Keep temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). It is not frost-tolerant; bring outdoor plants inside if nights drop below 40°F (4°C). Low humidity is fine.
Common Issues
Leaves drop easily when bumped; that is normal and often starts new plants. Heavy dropping can mean overwatering. Shriveling means the plant is thirsty. Mushy stems usually mean root rot from waterlogged soil.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid succulent fertilizer diluted to half-strength
Soil
Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or grit
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
8-12 inches tall, spreading up to 12-18 inches wide
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, or division
Common Varieties
Sedum rubrotinctum 'Aurora' (Pink Jelly Bean)
Plump bean-shaped leaves that shift from creamy pale green to soft rose-pink in bright sunlight.