Redpod Stonecrop

Rhodiola rhodantha

Native to:
United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Crassulaceae
Genus:
Rhodiola
Species:
Rhodiola rhodantha
USDA Symbol:
RHRH4

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
35 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
jun,jul,aug
Bloom Colors:
pink, red, rose

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Caterpillars:
★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Phoebus Apollo (Parnassius phoebus)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to alpine and subalpine regions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–90 days
Germination Time:
14–42 days
Notes:
Seeds require light for germination. Cold stratification improves germination rates significantly.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

Pre-treatment: Cold-moist stratification for 30 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F).

Source: Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20C. Germinates within 3 months. Requires light / surface sow (fine seed).

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society