
Red Leaf Sea Thrift
Armeria maritima 'Rubrifolia'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
6 inches
Width
10 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
European coasts
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Clumping perennial with attractive red leaves and pink flowers, commonly found in coastal areas. The red-leaved form of sea thrift, offering a distinctive color variation compared to typical green forms.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they are large enough to handle, typically after 6 weeks.
- Water deeply but infrequently to promote healthy root growth.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Pro Tip
Use sandy or gritty soil to ensure excellent drainage and prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering ☀️
- Water moderately, avoiding waterlogged soil 💧
- Prune dead or faded flowers to promote reblooming
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize in early spring with a low-nitrogen fertilizer
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
- Refrain from pruning in late fall to prevent damage from frost
- Don’t expose to shade as it reduces flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red Leaf Sea Thrift questions
What zones can Red Leaf Sea Thrift grow in?
Red Leaf Sea Thrift is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Leaf Sea Thrift deer resistant?
Yes — Red Leaf Sea Thrift is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Leaf Sea Thrift bloom?
Red Leaf Sea Thrift typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red Leaf Sea Thrift need full sun?
Red Leaf Sea Thrift does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Red Leaf Sea Thrift drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Leaf Sea Thrift handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Armeria to compare

Morning Star Rose Sea Thrift
Armeria maritima 'Morning Star Rose'

Ballerina Red Sea Thrift
Armeria maritima 'Ballerina Red'

Sea Thrift
Armeria maritima

Sea Thrift Vivid Dreams
Armeria maritima 'Vivid Dreams'

Sea Thrift
Armeria maritima 'Dreamland'

Ballerina White Sea Thrift
Armeria maritima 'Ballerina White'
