Sedum rosea (Roseroot) — perennial

Overview

Sedum rosea is a perennial in the genus Sedum, part of the Crassulaceae family. Sedum rosea grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include groundcover and rock garden. It is native to Arctic regions of Europe, Asia and North America.

About the genus

Sedum is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Crassulaceae, members of which are commonly known as stonecrops. The genus has been described as containing up to 600 species, subsequently reduced to 400–500. They are leaf succulents found primarily in the Northern Hemisphere, but extending into the southern hemisphere in Africa and South America.

Wikipedia contributors, "Sedum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sedum

In the garden

Sedum rosea is a cold‑adapted perennial from Arctic parts of Europe, Asia and North America that performs where soils are lean and exposure is high. It belongs to the stonecrop group and is valued for establishing on dry, free‑draining patches where many other perennials struggle. Plant into well‑drained, sandy or rocky soil in a spot that receives full sun or some afternoon shade; it tolerates dry to medium soil moisture and favours open, exposed aspects. In the UK it is fully hardy (H7), so no winter protection is required on free‑draining sites, though avoid heavy, waterlogged ground. Use grit or sharp sand to improve drainage when planting into heavier soils. Roseroot makes a practical surface cover in rock gardens and alpine beds and is suited to sunny banks and gravel planting where ground cover is needed. Space plants to allow a low spreading habit to develop and keep taller competitors trimmed back so the roseroot gets enough light and air. Expect flowering from June to September, making its summer display the key reason to site it where the blooms will be seen.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Sedum

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained, sandy, rocky
Soil moisture: dry to medium
Exposure: exposed, open
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Sedum rosea size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: groundcover, rock garden
Native to: Arctic regions of Europe, Asia, North America

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Sedum rosea

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established.
Pruning: Remove dead flower stalks after blooming.
Propagation: division, seed, cuttings

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Sedum rosea?

Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established.

Where is the best place to plant Sedum rosea?

Sedum rosea prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and open positions.

What soil does Sedum rosea need?

Sedum rosea is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including well-drained, sandy and rocky. Aim for soil that stays dry to medium.

How do I prune Sedum rosea?

Remove dead flower stalks after blooming.

Is Sedum rosea hardy in the UK?

Sedum rosea has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.