Rose moss is a sun-loving annual succulent that transforms hot, dry spots into waves of color from June through frost. Despite its delicate appearance, with ruffled, rose-like flowers in red, rose, orange, yellow, white, and pastel shades, this plant laughs at drought and poor soil. Growing just 3-9 inches tall and spreading 6-12 inches wide, it forms a dense, moss-like carpet of foliage that stays vibrant even when other plants wilt. Hardy in zones 2-11, rose moss thrives on neglect, making it one of the easiest flowers to grow.
Full Sun
Moderate
2-11
9in H x 12in W
—
Low
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Those ruffled, rose-like flowers are genuinely stunning, arriving in single, semi-double, and double forms that could fool you into thinking you're tending something far more fussy. The plant itself is a succulent with prostrate, slightly ascending stems that create a soft, moss-like mat of foliage rather than a traditional upright plant. Drought tolerance is exceptional, paired with a genuine preference for poor to average soil and full sun exposure. From seed to bloom happens quickly, making rose moss rewarding even for impatient gardeners.
Rose moss excels as a ground cover in sunny, dry beds where conventional flowers struggle. Its low, spreading habit and ability to naturalize make it perfect for annual color in rocky areas, along borders, and in naturalized plantings. The dense foliage mat suppresses weeds while the continuous blooms through frost provide season-long visual interest.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant seedlings outdoors at the frost-free date.
Set out seedlings and purchased plants at your last frost date in full sun. Space them 6-12 inches apart to accommodate their spreading mature width.
Sow seed directly in the garden after your last frost date in full sun.
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