Best Succulents for Hot Sun: Top Picks for Your Garden
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in hot, sunny weather, succulents are an excellent choice. These hardy plants are well-suited to drought conditions and can add a pop of color and texture to your garden or indoor space. However, with so many different types of succulents to choose from, it can be tough to know which ones are the best fit for your needs.
As a succulent enthusiast, I’ve spent years experimenting with different varieties and learning which ones are the most resilient in hot, sunny climates. In this article, I’ll share my top picks for the best succulents for hot sun, based on my personal experience and research. From small, colorful varieties to larger, statement-making plants, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Best Succulents for Hot Sun
If you live in a hot and dry climate, you might be looking for succulent plants that can tolerate the heat and still look beautiful. Here are some of the best succulents for hot sun:
Agave
Agave plants are known for their rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves that come in a variety of colors and sizes. They are low-maintenance and can tolerate hot, dry conditions. Some popular varieties include the blue agave, the variegated agave, and the century plant.
Sedum
Sedum plants are a great choice for hot, sunny areas because they are drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soil. They come in a variety of colors and shapes, from the low-growing Sedum ‘Angelina’ to the upright Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’.
Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe plants are succulent perennials that are known for their vibrant colors and low-maintenance nature. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from the tiny Kalanchoe pumila to the large Kalanchoe beharensis.
Opuntia
Opuntia, also known as the prickly pear cactus, is a heat-tolerant succulent that can grow in poor soil and dry conditions. It has flat, paddle-shaped leaves and produces colorful flowers in the summer.
Yucca
Yucca plants are known for their sword-like leaves and tall, spiky flowers. They are heat-tolerant and can grow in poor soil, making them a great choice for hot, sunny areas.
Senecio Mandraliscae
Senecio mandraliscae, also known as blue chalk sticks, is a low-growing succulent that is perfect for ground cover. It has blue-gray leaves and produces yellow flowers in the summer.
Adenium
Adenium, also known as desert rose, is a heat-tolerant succulent that produces beautiful pink, white, or red flowers. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and is perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden.
Echinocactus
Echinocactus, also known as the golden barrel cactus, is a heat-tolerant succulent that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has a round, ribbed shape and produces yellow flowers in the summer.
Sempervivum
Sempervivum, also known as hens and chicks, is a low-growing succulent that produces rosettes of fleshy leaves. It comes in a variety of colors and is perfect for ground cover.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a well-known succulent that is known for its healing properties. It has long, fleshy leaves and produces yellow or orange flowers in the summer. It is heat-tolerant and can grow in poor soil.
Euphorbia Tirucalli
Euphorbia tirucalli, also known as pencil cactus, is a heat-tolerant succulent that can grow up to 30 feet tall. It has thin, green stems that resemble pencils and produces small yellow flowers in the summer.
Desert Rose
Desert rose is a heat-tolerant succulent that produces beautiful pink, red, or white flowers. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and is perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden.
Cleistocactus
Cleistocactus is a heat-tolerant succulent that produces long, spiny stems and red or orange flowers in the summer. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and is perfect for adding height to your garden.
Cylindropuntia
Cylindropuntia, also known as the cholla cactus, is a heat-tolerant succulent that can grow up to 15 feet tall. It has cylindrical stems that are covered in spines and produces yellow or pink flowers in the summer.
Delosperma
Delosperma, also known as ice plant, is a low-growing succulent that produces bright, colorful flowers in the summer. It is heat-tolerant and can grow in poor
Hot Sun Succulents for Different Climates
Hot and Dry Environments
When it comes to hot and dry environments, it’s important to choose succulents that can withstand high temperatures and require minimal watering. Some of the best options include:
| Succulent | Climate | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Agave | Hot and dry | Fleshy leaves |
| Cacti | Hot and dry | Tough plants |
| Yucca | Hot and dry | Fleshy leaves |
These succulents are native to Mexico and other hot, arid regions and are well-suited to thrive in these conditions.
Mountainous Regions
For mountainous regions, it’s important to choose succulents that can withstand cooler temperatures and higher elevations. Some of the best options include:
- Sedum
- Sempervivum
- Jovibarba
These succulents are hardy and can tolerate colder temperatures, making them a great choice for mountainous regions.
Cooler Climates
Even in cooler climates, there are still succulents that can thrive in hot sun. Some of the best options include:
- Echeveria
- Aloe
- Kalanchoe
These succulents are drought-tolerant and can withstand full sun, making them a great choice for cooler climates with hot summers.
Tips for Growing Succulents in Hot Sun
As someone who has grown succulents in hot sun, I’ve learned a few tips and tricks that can help your succulents thrive in these conditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Heat-tolerant varieties: When selecting succulents for hot sun, look for varieties that are known for their heat tolerance. Some great options include aloe vera, agave, and cacti. These plants have evolved to thrive in hot, arid environments and can handle the intense sun and heat.
| Heat-Tolerant Succulents | Best Growing Conditions |
|---|---|
| Aloe Vera | Well-drained soil, full sun |
| Agave | Well-drained soil, full sun |
| Cactus | Well-drained soil, full sun |
Well-drained soil: Succulents need soil that drains quickly and doesn’t hold onto moisture. In hot sun, the soil can dry out quickly, so it’s important to choose a soil mix that is specifically designed for succulents or to add sand or perlite to improve drainage. This will prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged and causing root rot.
Low-maintenance: Succulents are known for being low-maintenance, and this is especially true when they are grown in hot sun. They don’t require frequent watering and can go for long periods without it. However, it’s important to monitor the soil moisture levels and water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Pests: Succulents are generally not prone to pests, but in hot sun, spider mites and mealybugs can be a problem. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestation, such as webbing or white, cottony masses on the leaves. If you notice any pests, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By following these tips, you can successfully grow succulents in hot sun and enjoy their unique beauty and low-maintenance nature.
