Roseroot (rhodiola)
Rhodiola rosea L.
Botanical family: Crassulaceae
A small perennial succulent of arctic and alpine cliffs, with a rose-scented root, a traditional plant of cold regions (Scandinavia, Siberia).
Full sun
Poor, rocky, very well-drained (mountain)
Low, tolerates drought: a plant of mountain rocks
Very hardy (mountain / arctic plant)
Overwinters in your zone
Role in permaculture
A perennial succulent of high-altitude rocks and arctic regions, a reputedly adaptogenic medicinal. Hardy to cold but demanding in drainage.
Companions
No companion planting is documented for this plant: no recommended neighbour, no neighbour to avoid.
Seasons & availability
Rhizome lifted in late summer, from this mountain plant, then dried.
Available: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
May be stimulating (avoid in the evening); caution in case of bipolar disorder, antidepressant treatment, and during pregnancy.
Keep in mind
Promising but still limited clinical data.
A note on rigour: many companion pairings are gardening folklore; this note sums up what the sources say, where there are any.
Regulatory status in Europe
A species' status varies from one country to another: check before growing, selling or foraging it outside France.
International (CITES)Cultivation regulated
The genus Rhodiola is listed in CITES Appendix II because of overharvesting of wild populations: international trade is regulated. Use only cultivated plants, never wild-foraged.
CITES CoP19 (2022), transposée dans l'UE par le règlement (UE) 2023/966, en vigueur depuis 2023
Before you forage
This plant is often gathered from the wild. Only pick what is abundant, never a protected species, and never uproot a whole plant (roots) without the landowner's permission. Rules vary by country and region, check locally.
Key takeaways
- • Prefers full sun exposure.
- • Ideal soil: poor, rocky, very well-drained (mountain).