Family: Stonecrop (Crassulacea) Hardy to Zones 1 to 7 (Sedum rhodiola, Golden Root, Rose Root) Perennial, fleshy succulent. There are a number of different ecotypes of Rhodiola rosea. Glycoside (e.g. rosavin, rosin) content is variable depending on ecotype. Our seed is collected only from cultivated plants. * This is a high rosavin type. The dried roots are rose-scented. Traditional use (TWM): tonic, adaptogenic. Plant prefers sun at altitude and shade to part shade at lower elevations. Plant in calcareous soil or rock garden. Flowers to 10 inches. Seed is very tiny and can be mixed with sand prior to planting to help make an even distribution. Sow seed on surface of fast-draining potting soil in flat or pot and press in securely. Best to sow seed in fall or very early spring and subject the planting to outdoor conditions–snow, rain, and temperature oscillation all stimulate germination. Lacking outdoor conditions, the seed may be stratified for 90 days in moist medium in the refrigerator, then surface-sown in cool shade. Germination is in the spring. Individuate seedlings and work up in successively larger pots until they are sufficiently sized to transplant to the landscape. Space 1 foot apart. Rhodiola may also be gainfully grown in pots to maturity–it makes an interesting succulent plant, steeped in folklore, honored by herbalists, with a nice yellow flower. 100 seeds/pkt., Open Pollinated, Untreated, NO GMO’s All species of Rhodiola were listed in appendix II of the convention for international trade in endangered species (CITES) in 2022. This makes wild collection and distribution illegal. We are selling seed from cultivated plants and encouraging the cultivation of Rhodiola to help conserve the plants.
