Similar in form to 'Autumn Joy,' Matrona has fabulous blue-green foliage with tinges of burgundy and grey. Stems are sturdy and erect, and a lovely red color. Plant grows about 24 to 30 inches tall and 15 to 18 inches wide. Flower buds appear in clusters, sort of cauliflower-like, in June, and as the summer progresses, they open into little pink stars, holding their color all summer and into the fall. Plants persist into winter, and are enjoyed by smaller migrating birds. Summer flowers attract butterflies. Use in perennial, shrub, or foundation borders, rock gardens, and parkstrips. Stunning with blue fescue or blue oat grass.
As a group, sedums prefer well-drained soils, including sandy-loam, clay-loam, or rocky soils, as long as it is well drained. In nature, most sedums occur in light shade or partly sunny sites, while a few are also well-adapted to full sun situations. They can tolerate both drought conditions or more frequent watering, but the key is good drainage. Their xeric nature makes sedums popular for use in rock gardens, roof gardens, wall gardens, and living wreaths.