Hylotelephium 'Carl'

When you want a sedum that makes a genuine statement in the late-season garden, Hylotelephium 'Carl' is ready for the job. It's a bold, upright Hylotelephium — sturdy stems, large blue-green leaves, and substantial flower heads of rich dusty rose that appear in late summer and early fall when most of the garden is starting to wind down. The flower heads have a presence that pollinators can't resist, and the dried seed heads that follow persist through winter with quiet architectural value. 'Carl' is not a subtle plant, and it doesn't need to be.

Hardy to Zone 4, it fits naturally into the Pacific Northwest's fall garden, when the light gets that amber quality and late bloomers become especially valuable. Full sun and well-drained soil are the basic requirements — soggy soils through winter will cause problems, so the west side's heavy clay needs amending before planting. It pairs naturally with ornamental grasses, late-season asters, and the warm tones of autumn foliage. Leave the seed heads standing through winter; they catch the frost beautifully and remind you through February that something good is coming back.