Widow's cross

Description:

Sedum pulchellum is a low-growing sedum reaching a height of about 8 ” when in bloom. The succulent leaves are sessile and appear alternately on the branching stems. The stem is pink to light green. It divides into 3 -5 horizontal branches at its top. The lime green leaves are sometimes shaded red in the early spring. Sedum comes from the latin word ‘sedeo’ which means “to sit”, most likely in reference to the recumbent nature of most sedums. The latin meaning of ‘pulchellum’ is pretty or beautiful. [from ozarkedgewildflowers.com]

Habitat:

Limestone glades, ledges, outcrops, also on chert and sandstone.

Notes:

I discovered this for the first time in prairie habitat with lots of limestone rocks. It's common in the spring to early summer months. Also known as "glade stonecrop."