Hi Lynn, no, I have no idea on the longevity of this sedum..and same as your observation, I find it so weird the way the new growth seems happier at the base of the plant. I was thinking, could it be because the new growth at the base has more shade, compared to the new growth above that were fully exposed to direct sun, could the branches be feeling fried now that there were no bigger leaves protecting it. Oh well, will take it one step at a time. Just a bit antsy about pulling out the plant from the container, seeing the little ones around the base, hopefully I do not kill them in the process.