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Red Orpine

Rhodiola rhodantha

Last reviewed: August 2026

Red Orpine (Rhodiola rhodantha)
Photo: Unknown authorUnknown author / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 4"–8" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AZ, CO, MT, NM and 2 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 432 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Red orpine is a compact succulent perennial that forms neat, low mounds of fleshy leaves. It produces clusters of small flowers in summer that range from pink to red, creating attractive color displays in rock gardens and dry areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Red Orpine is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

The summer blooms attract bees and beetles, providing nectar during the peak growing season. The compact size makes it useful for creating pollinator habitat in small spaces.

Common questions

How much sun does Red Orpine need?
Red Orpine grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Red Orpine bloom?
Red Orpine blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Red Orpine native?
Red Orpine (Rhodiola rhodantha) is native to AZ, CO, MT, NM and 2 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Red Orpine attract?
Red Orpine draws bees and beetles.
Is Red Orpine HOA-friendly?
Red Orpine is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Red Orpine? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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