RHODIOLA ROSEA L. – Rose-root

Syn.: Sedum roseum (L.) Scop., Sedum rhodiola DC.
Family: Crassulaceae DC.

Distribution: Arctic and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, Northern Europe, Asia (Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, China, Japan, Korea), Northern America, and mountains of Southern and Central Europe – Pyrenees, Alps, Carpathian.
Habitat: It grows on rocks and screes, grassy, or rocky slopes, from mountains to subalpine zone.
Description: A perennial herb with a robust roots and erect stems, 10–35 cm high. The leaves are oblong, elliptic-oblanceolate, or obovate, entire. Inflorescences are corymbiform or capitate, the flowers unisexual, flowers from April to August.
Threat and Protection: Rose-root is an endangered and strictly protected plant in Czechia.
Note: It is often grown in rock gardens. The roots are used medicinally.


Photos: 14. 6. 2004 (Slovakia, Malá Fatra).