Rhodiola rosea – Roseroot (seed)

Description

A member of the Crassulaceae family, Rhodiola rosea is a perennial succulent native to the Arctic region, mainly Scandinavia and Siberia.

The freshly cut rhizome has a fragrance reminiscent of roses, hence the common name. Roseroot has been used extensively in folk medicine as an adaptogen (increasing stamina and endurance, like Ginseng and Ashwaghanda), by the Vikings and Siberians.

The rhizomes contain compounds called rosavins and also phenylethanol derivatives (salidroside) flavonoids, monoterpenoids, phenolic acids and phytosterols. Standardised extracts typically contain 3% rosavins and 1% salidroside. Most literature recommends a daily dose of 200-400mg.

Care and Cultivation of Rhodiola rosea

The small seeds of Rhodiola rosea should be sown on the surface of a well drained potting mix (some sources indicate a gravel/stony medium). They can be covered with a small amount of gravel or sand to keep the seeds in contact with the medium. Germination rates can be improved by cold stratification (place seeds in moist sand in refrigerator for 4+ weeks). They can also be sown in autumn and left over winter, germination should occur in spring. Pot on separately when they begin to crowd each other. Dislikes overly hot conditions.

30+ seeds per packet (Russian variety)