PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun for the most vibrant foliage color and compact growth habit.
Watering
Highly drought-tolerant once established; water only when the soil is completely dry.
Temperature
Extremely cold hardy (USDA Zones 4-9) and heat tolerant.
Characteristics
- Leaves: Fleshy, rounded to obovate, striking cherry-red to deep burgundy, retaining intense color through summer and fall;
- Flowers: Small, star-shaped, deep pink to magenta, clustered in terminal cymes;
- Stems: Creeping, rooting at the nodes, forming a dense, weed-suppressing mat.
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Fertilization
Apply a very light top-dressing of compost if the soil is extremely poor.. Fertilization recommendations description
Crushed Eggshells：Wash, dry, and crush eggshells into a fine powder. Sprinkle lightly around the base of the plant to provide slow-release calcium, which supports strong cell walls. Avoid heavy application to ensure the soil surface dries quickly.Pruning
- Trim back dead flower heads in late fall or early spring to maintain a tidy appearance;
- Cut back any overly aggressive creeping stems to keep the plant within its designated boundary;
- Remove any fallen debris from the mat to prevent trapped moisture and fungal issues.
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: Non-toxic to cats per ASPCA.
Humans: Non-toxic to humans.
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Popular in modern Western xeriscaping and rock gardens, celebrated for its water-wise nature and ability to provide year-round structural color without demanding resources.
Usage: - Excellent groundcover for dry, sunny slopes; - Ideal for rock gardens, alpine troughs, and green roofs; - Used as a colorful trailing accent in mixed container gardens.