Sedum Purple Emperor

More commonly known by its older name of Sedum Purple Emperor, Hylotelephium telephium (Atropurpureum Group) Purple Emperor is a compact, clump-forming herbaceous perennial with broad, succulent deep bronze-purple leaves on deep red, upright stems. From August to October, rounded heads of tiny, starry purplish-red flowers are borne on the plant, and are very attractive to butterflies and bees the plant is often covered with butterflies in late summer. The dead, brown flower-heads persist into winter. One of the best orpines for the front of a border, Orpine Purple Emperor holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Benefits from the Chelsea chop at the end of May.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any well-drained neutral to alkaline soil
Position: Full sun
Season of interest: Late summer to autumn in particular
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: 18 (45cm); Spread: 18 (45cm)