Sedum telephium
Sedum telephium
· perennial · introduced
Last updated
As of March 31, 2026, soil temperature at Kent / Auburn is 47.7°F. Sedum telephium is in early-season conditions in Zone 8b.
Orpine, also called livelong, is an upright, clump-forming succulent reaching 12-24 inches tall with blue-green, opposite leaves and dense, flat-topped clusters of pink to purple-red flowers. Native to Europe and western Asia, the plant has traditionally been used in folk remedies and was believed to bring good luck.
Orpine is extremely drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun to light shade with well-drained soil. Hardy to USDA zones 3-8, it is long-lived and low-maintenance. The plant attracts butterflies and late-season pollinators. Spent flower heads persist into winter, providing extended ornamental interest.