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King's-crown

Rhodiola integrifolia

Last reviewed: June 2026

King's-crown (Rhodiola integrifolia)
Photo: no rights reserved, uploaded by Owen McElroy

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

2"–8" H × 2"–8" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

CA, CO, ID, MN and 8 more states

Pollinators

bees, flies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

King's-crown is a compact alpine succulent that forms tight, low mats of thick, blue-green leaves. It produces clusters of small pink to red flowers on short stems during summer months. This drought-tolerant plant maintains its foliage year-round and thrives in rocky, well-drained soils.

In an HOA neighborhood

King's-crown takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Very small size makes it appear sparse in typical landscaping
  • Alpine appearance may look too wild or undeveloped
  • Uncommon plant that HOAs might not recognize as intentional landscaping

Wildlife value

The summer blooms attract bees and flies, providing nectar for pollinators during the peak growing season. Its compact growth makes it valuable for small beneficial insects seeking shelter.

Common questions

How much sun does King's-crown need?
King's-crown grows best in full sun conditions.
When does King's-crown bloom?
King's-crown blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is King's-crown native?
King's-crown (Rhodiola integrifolia) is native to CA, CO, ID, MN and 8 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does King's-crown attract?
King's-crown draws bees and flies.
Is King's-crown HOA-friendly?
King's-crown takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow King's-crown? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz