Can the flowers of Sedum sarmentosum be eaten?
Jun 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the flowering *Sedum sarmentosum* (creeping stonecrop) is edible, but should be consumed according to medical advice. To avoid unnecessary harm to the body, it is recommended to harvest and consume *Sedum sarmentosum* under the guidance of a professional traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or nutritionist. Be sure to thoroughly wash it before consumption, and avoid excessive intake. Additionally, take care to distinguish *Sedum sarmentosum* from other toxic plants to prevent accidental ingestion.
Generally speaking, Sedum sarmentosum (also known as Stringy Stonecrop) is edible when it flowers, but medical advice should be followed. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Sedum sarmentosum is a perennial evergreen herbaceous plant with multiple values, including ornamental, edible, and medicinal uses. Its stems and leaves are crisp, tender, juicy, slightly sour, and fresh in taste, making it a nutritious vegetable rich in essential amino acids and trace elements for the human body. During the flowering period, the flowers of Sedum sarmentosum do not negatively affect its edibility and it remains safe for consumption.
If processed immediately after harvesting—for example, thoroughly washed and then used for soups, cold dishes, or made into herbal preparations—the flowers contain certain active ingredients that may help exert heat-clearing and detoxifying effects, making it generally safe for consumption at this stage.
To avoid unnecessary harm to the body, it is recommended to harvest and consume Sedum sarmentosum under the guidance of a professional Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner or nutritionist. It must be thoroughly washed before consumption, and excessive intake should be avoided. Additionally, care should be taken to distinguish Sedum sarmentosum from other toxic plants to prevent accidental ingestion.
