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Key characteristics

Family: Crassulaceae
Height: 8 to 12 in
Width: 12 to 18 in
Flower color: Soft yellow to pale golden star-shaped flowers held in rounded clusters
Foliage color: Bright green fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves arranged in loose rosettes
Bloom time: Late winter to early spring
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Low to moderate moisture
Maintenance: Very low, occasional trimming to maintain shape
Growing zone: USDA zones 7 to 10
Wildlife: Bees, early-season pollinators

Groundcovers

Sedum palmeri

Palmer's Sedum

Sedum palmeri forms loose rosettes of blue-green, spoon-shaped leaves that take on soft pink and red tones in cool weather. In late winter to early spring, upright stems rise above the foliage bearing clusters of bright yellow, star-shaped flowers that bring early seasonal color. Native to northeastern Mexico, this species is valued for its dependable flowering period and its ability to provide visual interest when many perennials are still dormant.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Low to moderate moisture

Bloom time

Late winter to early spring

Find this plant

Works well in

Rock Gardens
Pathways & Walkways
Slopes & Banks
Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Armeria · Heathers · Dianthus · Catmints · Blue oat grass · Candytufts

Design tip

Take advantage of the unusually early blooms to provide color and support for emerging pollinators before most perennials begin flowering. Combine evergreen rosettes with spring bulbs and contrasting foliage for a garden that offers interest from late winter onward.