Native Habitat:
Alpine and subalpine meadows, rocky slopes, and open ridges.
 
Bloom Time:
June – August
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Perennial succulent, 2–12 inches tall, forming dense mats or low clumps. Produces small, star-shaped yellow flowers atop short, erect stems. Leaves are thick, lance-shaped, and succulent.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Full sun; thrives in well-drained rocky or sandy soils with low fertility. Extremely drought- and cold-tolerant.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Oreostemma alpigenum, Penstemon rupicola, Lewisia columbiana, Eriogonum compositum, Lupinus lepidus.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Adds late-summer color, alpine texture, and drought tolerance to rock gardens, green roofs, and xeric urban landscapes. Works well in small spaces, container plantings, or naturalistic alpine-inspired designs.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and other high-elevation pollinators. Dense mats provide shelter for small invertebrates.
 
Historical Use:
Primarily appreciated for its ornamental resilience and alpine aesthetic; valued for rock gardens, drought-tolerant plantings, and pollinator support in native landscapes.