What Do Outdoor Succulents Look Like: A Guide to Identifying Common Varieties

Succulents are popular as both indoor and outdoor plants, which can make it hard to figure out which is which. What do outdoor succulents look like, and how can you use them in your garden?

To be honest, there’s a lot of crossover between outdoor and indoor succulents, but there are definitely some succulents better suited to growing outside.

Here’s what you need to know about identifying outdoor succulents that will work well in your garden. I’ll go over the main groups and then tell you my three favorite varieties for each. I’ll also share my tips for successful planting arrangements.

Got a hot garden? Here are succulents that thrive in hot sun.

Want your outdoor succulents to thrive naturally? These natural fertilizing techniques are bound to help.

Caring for Outdoor Succulents

Here are some general tips for caring on outdoor succulents. Read on for the species profiles to give you much more specific information on the succulents you want to grow.

Soil and Watering

Succulents require well-draining soil to prevent root rot, so it’s important to use a soil mix specifically designed for succulents or add sand, perlite, and other well-draining materials to regular potting soil to improve drainage.

Watering should be done thoroughly and deeply, but only when the soil is completely dry. During the summer and in warmer climates, they may need water once a week.

In cooler coastal areas or during the fall and winter months, they can be watered every two weeks. When they live in a garden, it’s best to wait until your outdoor succulent plants are dry before watering them again.

Temperatures and Sunlight

Most outdoor succulents prefer full sun or partial sun, although some varieties can tolerate shade. It’s important to acclimate outdoor succulents to direct sunlight gradually to prevent sunburn.

Most succulents are sensitive to frost and should be moved indoors or covered during cold weather. Some varieties, such as hens and chicks, are extra cold-hardy and can survive some of the coldest winters by going dormant.

Common Types of Outdoor Succulents

If you’re looking for low-maintenance plants to add to your outdoor garden, succulents are a great option. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them a versatile choice for any garden. Here are some of the most common types of outdoor succulents:

1. Agave

• Temperature tolerance: Agaves can generally tolerate temperatures between 7°C and 38°C (45°F to 100°F).
• Spread in the garden: Agaves usually grow slowly, with most species forming solitary rosettes, so their spread is minimal.
• Flower appearance: Agaves are known for producing tall flower stalks with beautiful, often dramatic flowers.
• Watering frequency: Agaves are drought-tolerant and can go relatively long periods without watering, typically ranging from 2 to 4 weeks.

Best Agave for Outdoors

1. Agave parryi (Artichoke Agave): Native to the southwestern United States, Agave parryi is a stunning succulent with thick, blue-gray leaves adorned with spines along the edges. It forms a striking rosette shape and can handle frost and cold conditions. It is known for its architectural beauty and resilience.
2. Agave americana (Century Plant): Agave americana is a large and dramatic succulent species with a distinctive rosette of stiff, fleshy leaves that can grow several feet long. It is highly adaptable and can thrive in a wide range of climates, from hot and arid regions to more temperate areas. It is known for its impressive size and impressive flowering stalk that emerges only once in its lifetime.
3. Agave victoriae-reginae (Queen Victoria Agave): This compact and visually striking Agave species features symmetrically arranged, dark green leaves with white markings. It is a slow-growing succulent that can withstand high temperatures and thrive in well-draining soil. It is often chosen for its elegant and symmetrical rosette form.

2. Sedum

• Temperature tolerance: Sedums are quite hardy and can withstand temperatures ranging from -9°C to 38°C (15°F to 100°F).
• Spread in the garden: Sedums are low-growing and often spread by forming mats or clumps, gradually filling in their surroundings.
• Flower appearance: Sedums come in various species, some of which produce lovely clusters of small, star-shaped flowers.
• Watering frequency: Sedums are water-wise plants and can withstand drought conditions. They can go approximately 2 to 3 weeks between waterings.

Best Sedum for Outdoors

1. Sedum spectabile (Showy Stonecrop): Also known as “Autumn Joy,” Sedum spectabile is a hardy succulent that produces clusters of pink flowers that gradually turn to a rich copper color in the fall. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a variety of outdoor conditions, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.
2. Sedum rupestre (Blue Spruce Stonecrop): This low-growing sedum features fleshy, blue-green leaves that resemble the needles of a blue spruce tree. It forms a dense mat of foliage and produces yellow flowers in the summer. Sedum rupestre is known for its ability to tolerate poor soil and dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for outdoor landscapes.
3. Sedum spurium (Dragon’s Blood Stonecrop): With its vibrant red foliage, Sedum spurium adds a bold splash of color to outdoor gardens. This low-growing sedum forms a dense carpet-like mat and produces pink flowers in the summer. It is drought-tolerant, easy to grow, and can withstand a range of temperatures and soil conditions.

3. Crassula

• Temperature tolerance: Most crassulas can tolerate temperatures between 10°C and 32°C (50°F to 90°F).
• Spread in the garden: Crassulas generally have a moderate spread, forming compact rosettes or branching out depending on the species.
• Flower appearance: Crassulas often produce attractive clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, or red.
• Watering frequency: Crassulas are succulents that can store water in their leaves. They can go about 1 to 2 weeks without watering, depending on the conditions.

Best Crassula for Outdoors

1. Crassula ovata (Jade Plant): Jade Plant is a well-known and widely cultivated succulent that can thrive outdoors in many regions. It features fleshy, oval-shaped leaves and can grow into a small tree with proper care. Jade Plants are known for their resilience and ability to tolerate different light conditions, making them versatile options for outdoor gardens and containers.
2. Crassula capitella (Red Pagoda): This succulent features stacked, triangular leaves that range in color from green to vibrant red when exposed to bright sunlight. It forms a dense, branching habit and can produce small, white flowers. Crassula capitella is drought-tolerant and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade, making it a visually striking addition to outdoor gardens and rockeries.
3. Crassula arborescens (Silver Jade Plant): Silver Jade Plant features elongated, silver-gray leaves with a slight powdery texture. It forms a compact, shrub-like growth habit and produces small clusters of white flowers in late winter to spring. Crassula arborescens is known for its heat and drought tolerance, making it suitable for outdoor landscapes, particularly in arid or Mediterranean climates.

4. Echeveria

• Temperature tolerance: Echeverias prefer temperatures between 10°C and 27°C (50°F to 80°F), but some can tolerate higher temperatures briefly.
• Spread in the garden: Echeverias usually form tight rosettes and can slowly produce offsets that contribute to their spread.
• Flower appearance: Echeverias are renowned for their stunning, colorful flowers that emerge on tall stalks, showcasing various shades and patterns.
• Watering frequency: Echeverias have water-storing leaves and prefer infrequent but thorough watering. They can typically go around 1 to 2 weeks between waterings.

Best Echeveria for Outdoors

1. Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’: This popular Echeveria cultivar features rosettes of powdery, lavender-gray leaves with pink undertones. It produces clusters of pink, bell-shaped flowers on tall stalks. ‘Perle von Nurnberg’ is known for its resilience in outdoor conditions and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. It adds a touch of elegance and color to outdoor gardens, rockeries, or container arrangements.
2. Echeveria agavoides (Lipstick Echeveria): This Echeveria species forms compact rosettes of triangular, pointed leaves with vibrant red edges. The center of the rosettes is usually green. In summer, it produces tall, arching stems adorned with coral-red flowers. Echeveria agavoides thrives in well-draining soil and can withstand direct sunlight, making it an excellent choice for outdoor landscapes and containers.
3. Echeveria elegans (Mexican Snowball): Also known as ‘Mexican Snowball,’ this Echeveria species has pale blue-green, fleshy leaves that form tight rosettes. It sends up tall, slender stalks bearing pink or coral-colored flowers in late spring or summer. Echeveria elegans prefers bright but filtered sunlight and well-draining soil. It is a resilient outdoor succulent, often used in rock gardens, borders, or as a ground cover.

5. Sempervivum

• Temperature tolerance: Sempervivums are extremely hardy and can tolerate temperatures ranging from -40°C to 38°C (-40°F to 100°F).
• Spread in the garden: Sempervivums form tight rosettes, known as “hens and chicks,” and can spread by producing numerous offsets.
• Flower appearance: Sempervivums send up tall stalks with clusters of delicate, star-shaped flowers in various colors, adding beauty to the garden.
• Watering frequency: Sempervivums have excellent drought tolerance and can go without water for extended periods, typically 2 to 4 weeks.

Best Sempervivum for Outdoors

1. Sempervivum arachnoideum (Cobweb Houseleek): This unique Sempervivum variety forms tight rosettes of fleshy leaves with intricate web-like threads covering the surface. The leaves are typically green but can take on reddish or purple tones. It produces clusters of star-shaped flowers in various colors, including pink, red, or yellow. Sempervivum arachnoideum is cold-hardy and can thrive in outdoor gardens, rockeries, or alpine plantings.
2. Sempervivum tectorum (Common Houseleek): This classic Sempervivum species features rosettes of chubby, fleshy leaves that come in a wide range of colors, including green, red, purple, and silver. It produces offsets called “chicks” that cluster around the mother plant. Sempervivum tectorum is incredibly cold-tolerant and can withstand harsh outdoor conditions. It is often used in rock gardens, as a ground cover, or in containers.
3. Sempervivum calcareum (Hen and Chicks): This Sempervivum variety forms rosettes of chubby, pointed leaves that range in color from green to reddish-brown. It produces numerous offsets around the main rosette, creating a cluster or “hen and chicks” appearance. Sempervivum calcareum is resilient to cold temperatures and can adapt to various outdoor environments. It is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, or container arrangements.

6. Haworthia

• Temperature tolerance: Haworthias generally prefer temperatures between 15°C and 27°C (59°F to 80°F) and can tolerate slightly higher or lower temperatures.
• Spread in the garden: Haworthias tend to grow in compact rosettes and form clumps over time, slowly spreading in the garden.
• Flower appearance: Haworthias produce small, tubular flowers on slender stalks, which can be white, pink, or greenish, but they are not as showy as some other succulents.
• Watering frequency: Haworthias are adapted to arid conditions and have water-storing leaves. They can go approximately 2 to 3 weeks between waterings.

Best Haworthia for Outdoors

1. Haworthia cooperi: This Haworthia species features rosettes of fleshy, translucent leaves that have a window-like appearance. The leaves are typically green but can develop a reddish tint with sun exposure. Haworthia cooperi produces offsets that cluster around the base of the plant. It is a hardy succulent that can tolerate outdoor conditions, including bright light and partial shade. It is commonly used in rock gardens, succulent arrangements, or as a ground cover.
2. Haworthia attenuata (Zebra Plant): This popular Haworthia variety has thick, pointed leaves with distinctive horizontal white stripes, resembling zebra stripes. It forms rosettes and offsets abundantly, creating a dense cluster of plants. Haworthia attenuata is adaptable to various outdoor environments and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade. It is commonly used in succulent gardens, borders, or container plantings.
3. Haworthia fasciata (Zebra Haworthia): Similar to Haworthia attenuata, Haworthia fasciata also has striking zebra-like white stripes on its dark green leaves. It forms rosettes and offsets, creating a compact and attractive arrangement. Haworthia fasciata is a resilient outdoor succulent that can tolerate bright light and partial shade. It is suitable for rock gardens, succulent displays, or as a potted plant.

7. Kalanchoe

• Temperature tolerance: Kalanchoes thrive in temperatures between 10°C and 32°C (50°F to 90°F), but some varieties can tolerate slightly cooler or hotter temperatures.
• Spread in the garden: Kalanchoes can spread by producing offsets or developing sprawling branches, filling out their allotted space.
• Flower appearance: Kalanchoes are known for their vibrant and long-lasting flowers, which come in a range of colors such as red, orange, yellow, or pink.
• Watering frequency: Kalanchoes have water-storing leaves, allowing them to withstand periods of drought. They typically require watering every 1 to 2 weeks.

Best Kalanchoe for Outdoors

1. Kalanchoe blossfeldiana: This popular Kalanchoe species is known for its vibrant and long-lasting flowers in various colors, including red, orange, yellow, and pink. It forms compact rosettes with fleshy leaves. Kalanchoe blossfeldiana thrives in full sun or partial shade and can handle outdoor conditions. It is often used in garden beds, borders, or as container plants.
2. Kalanchoe luciae (Paddle Plant): Also known as Flapjack or Red Pancakes, this Kalanchoe species has thick, paddle-shaped leaves that turn reddish or pinkish at the edges when exposed to bright sunlight. It forms attractive rosettes and produces tall flower spikes with small tubular flowers. Kalanchoe luciae is a hardy succulent that can tolerate outdoor conditions, including full sun. It is often used in succulent gardens, rockeries, or as a focal point in outdoor plantings.
3. Kalanchoe pumila (Flower Dust Plant): This Kalanchoe species features small, rounded leaves covered with fine, silvery hairs that give them a dusty appearance. It produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, or white. Kalanchoe pumila is a versatile outdoor succulent that can tolerate different light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It is commonly used in rock gardens, ground covers, or as an accent plant in outdoor landscapes.

8. Aloe

• Temperature tolerance: Aloes prefer temperatures between 10°C and 32°C (50°F to 90°F) and can tolerate brief periods of lower or higher temperatures.
• Spread in the garden: Aloes often form rosettes and can produce offsets, slowly expanding their presence in the garden.
• Flower appearance: Many aloe species produce impressive flower spikes with tubular blooms in vibrant shades of red, orange, yellow, or coral.
• Watering frequency: Aloes have water-storing leaves and can withstand drought. They usually require watering every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the conditions.

Best Aloe for Outdoors

1. Aloe vera: Commonly known as the “Aloe vera plant” or “Medicinal Aloe,” this species is highly popular for its gel-filled leaves that have various medicinal and cosmetic uses. Aloe vera is a succulent with rosettes of thick, fleshy, and spiky leaves. It produces tall flower spikes with tubular yellow or orange flowers. Aloe vera thrives in full sun or partial shade and is drought-tolerant, making it suitable for outdoor planting in warmer climates.
2. Aloe ferox: Also known as the “Cape Aloe” or “Bitter Aloe,” this Aloe species is native to South Africa. It has large, robust rosettes with stiff, toothed leaves that can turn reddish in full sun. Aloe ferox produces tall flower spikes with bright orange or red flowers. It is a hardy succulent that can tolerate heat, drought, and a wide range of outdoor conditions. Aloe ferox is often used in rock gardens, desert landscapes, or as a specimen plant.
3. Aloe arborescens: This Aloe species, commonly called the “Torch Aloe” or “Candelabra Aloe,” is a fast-growing succulent that forms clumps of rosettes with thick, green leaves. It produces vibrant, tubular red or orange flowers on tall, branching inflorescences. Aloe arborescens thrives in full sun and is known for its resilience in various climates, including hot and dry regions. It is often used in Mediterranean gardens, xeriscapes, or as a striking focal point in outdoor landscapes.

9. Aeonium

• Temperature tolerance: Aeoniums prefer temperatures between 15°C and 27°C (59°F to 80°F) but can tolerate slightly cooler or warmer temperatures.
• Spread in the garden: Aeoniums often grow in a rosette form, with some varieties producing offsets that contribute to their spread.
• Flower appearance: Aeoniums can produce impressive cone-shaped flower clusters on tall stalks, typically in shades of yellow or white.
• Watering frequency: Aeoniums have water-storing leaves and are adapted to dry conditions. They can go approximately 2 to 3 weeks between waterings.

Best Aeonium for Outdoors

1. Aeonium arboreum: Also known as the “Tree Aeonium,” this species features rosettes of succulent leaves that grow on branching stems. The leaves are typically green but can turn shades of red, purple, or variegated under intense sunlight. Aeonium arboreum produces tall flower spikes with small, yellow flowers. It is a sun-loving succulent that can handle heat and drought. It is commonly used in outdoor gardens, rockeries, or container plantings.
2. Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’: This cultivar, often called “Black Rose” or “Black Prince,” is known for its striking dark burgundy to almost black rosettes. The leaves form tight rosettes on thick stems. Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’ prefers full sun to part shade and can tolerate high temperatures. Its unique coloration adds dramatic flair to outdoor gardens, succulent arrangements, or mixed container plantings.
3. Aeonium haworthii: Commonly known as “Haworth’s Aeonium” or “Kiwi Aeonium,” this species forms tight rosettes of spoon-shaped leaves that are typically variegated with shades of green, white, and pink. The leaf color intensifies under bright sunlight. Aeonium haworthii produces clusters of yellow flowers on long stems. It prefers full sun to light shade and is suitable for outdoor planting in well-draining soil. It adds visual interest and color to rock gardens, borders, or succulent displays.

10. Senecio

• Temperature tolerance: Senecios prefer temperatures between 10°C and 27°C (50°F to 80°F) but can tolerate slightly higher or lower temperatures.
• Spread in the garden: Senecios can have trailing or upright growth habits, with some varieties spreading vigorously and filling empty spaces.
• Flower appearance: Senecios can produce daisy-like flowers in various colors, including white, yellow, pink, or purple, adding beauty to the garden.
• Watering frequency: Senecios have moderate water needs and can go approximately 1 to 2 weeks between waterings, depending on the conditions.

Best Senecio for Outdoors

1. Senecio mandraliscae: Commonly known as “Blue Chalksticks,” this Senecio species features striking blue-gray cylindrical leaves that resemble chalk sticks. It forms a low-growing, trailing habit and is often used as ground cover or in rock gardens. Senecio mandraliscae is highly drought-tolerant and prefers full sun. It is an excellent choice for arid or coastal climates.
2. Senecio serpens: Also known as “Blue Chalk Fingers” or “Serpent’s Blue,” this Senecio species has slender, finger-like leaves that are bluish-green in color. It forms a dense, mat-like ground cover and is suitable for cascading over walls or in hanging baskets. Senecio serpens is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun or partial shade. It is a great option for arid or Mediterranean climates.
3. Senecio barbertonicus: Commonly called “Succulent Bush Senecio,” this species features thick, succulent green leaves arranged in clusters along upright stems. The leaves have a distinctive triangular shape with serrated edges. Senecio barbertonicus produces small, yellow daisy-like flowers during the blooming season. It is a versatile Senecio species that can be grown in the ground or containers. It prefers full sun to light shade and is well-suited for warm, dry climates.

11. Graptopetalum

• Temperature tolerance: Graptopetalums prefer temperatures between 7°C and 32°C (45°F to 90°F) but can tolerate slightly cooler or warmer temperatures.
• Spread in the garden: Graptopetalums often form rosettes and can slowly spread by producing offsets or branching out.
• Flower appearance: Graptopetalums produce delicate, star-shaped flowers in various colors, including white, pink, or purple, enhancing their overall appeal.
• Watering frequency: Graptopetalums have water-storing leaves and can withstand drought conditions. They usually require watering every 1 to 2 weeks.

Best Graptopetalum for Outdoors

1. Graptopetalum paraguayense: Also known as “Ghost Plant” or “Mother of Pearl,” this Graptopetalum species features rosettes of fleshy, pointed leaves that have a grayish-green color. Under direct sunlight, the leaves can take on pink or purple hues. Graptopetalum paraguayense is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is a versatile succulent that can be used in rock gardens, borders, or containers.
2. Graptopetalum pentandrum: Commonly called “Lavender Pebbles,” this Graptopetalum species forms rosettes of plump, rounded leaves that have a blue-green or lavender coloration. The leaves may exhibit a powdery coating, adding to their unique appearance. Graptopetalum pentandrum prefers full sun or light shade and well-draining soil. It is a hardy succulent that can tolerate dry conditions and is suitable for rock gardens, succulent arrangements, or ground cover.
3. Graptopetalum amethystinum: Also known as “Jewel Leaf Plant,” this Graptopetalum species showcases rosettes of thick, chubby leaves that have a striking purple or lavender hue. The leaves are often covered in a powdery coating, enhancing their jewel-like appearance. Graptopetalum amethystinum thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires well-draining soil. It is a beautiful addition to succulent gardens, container plantings, or as a focal point in rockeries.

12. Euphorbia

• Temperature tolerance: Euphorbias have varying temperature preferences depending on the species, but most can tolerate temperatures between 10°C and 32°C (50°F to 90°F).
• Spread in the garden: Euphorbias can have different growth habits, with some spreading through underground stems or by producing offsets, gradually filling in the garden.
• Flower appearance: Euphorbias display a diverse range of flower types, from small clusters to larger blooms, with colors varying from yellow and orange to red or green.
• Watering frequency: Euphorbias have different water needs depending on the species. Some require regular watering every 1 to 2 weeks, while others can go longer periods without water.

Best Euphorbia for Outdoors

1. Euphorbia tirucalli (Pencil Cactus): This Euphorbia species is known for its slender, pencil-like branches and green foliage. It is a drought-tolerant succulent that can handle high temperatures and full sun exposure. It grows upright and can reach impressive heights. However, caution should be exercised as the milky sap of Euphorbia tirucalli can cause skin and eye irritation.
2. Euphorbia mammillaris (Indian Corn Cob): This Euphorbia species features a unique columnar shape with closely spaced tubercles along the stem, resembling a corn cob. It has green cylindrical branches with small spines. Euphorbia mammillaris prefers bright sunlight and can tolerate hot and dry conditions. It is an interesting addition to outdoor succulent gardens and can also be grown in containers.
3. Euphorbia resinifera (Resin Spurge): This Euphorbia species has a striking architectural form with thick, blue-gray stems covered in sharp spines. It is native to Morocco and can tolerate hot and arid climates. Euphorbia resinifera prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It is a visually appealing succulent that adds texture and interest to outdoor gardens and xeriscapes.

13. Dudleya

• Temperature tolerance: Dudleyas prefer temperatures between 10°C and 27°C (50°F to 80°F) but can tolerate slightly higher or lower temperatures depending on the species.
• Spread in the garden: Dudleyas generally grow in rosettes and can slowly spread by producing offsets, gradually covering the available space.
• Flower appearance: Dudleyas produce tall flower stalks adorned with beautiful, bell-shaped flowers in various colors, such as white, pink, orange, or yellow.
• Watering frequency: Dudleyas are adapted to arid conditions and have water-storing leaves. They can go approximately 2 to 4 weeks between waterings, depending on the conditions.

Best Dudleya for Outdoors

1. Dudleya farinosa (Bluff Lettuce): This species is native to coastal regions of California and Oregon. It has rosettes of chalky blue-green leaves with a powdery coating, which helps protect the plant from harsh sun and retain moisture. Dudleya farinosa produces tall stalks of yellow flowers in the spring. It is well-adapted to coastal climates and is drought-tolerant.
2. Dudleya brittonii (Giant Chalk Dudleya): Native to Baja California in Mexico, this Dudleya species features large rosettes with elongated, chalky blue-gray leaves. It has a distinctive and attractive form. Dudleya brittonii prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can tolerate hot and dry conditions and is ideal for rock gardens or containers.
3. Dudleya pulverulenta (Chalk Liveforever): Also known as “Powdery Liveforever,” this Dudleya species has powdery white leaves arranged in tight rosettes. It is native to California and can withstand full sun and coastal conditions. Dudleya pulverulenta produces tall flower stalks with clusters of pink or yellow flowers in late spring or early summer. It is a visually appealing succulent that adds a touch of elegance to outdoor gardens.

Outdoor Succulent Problems and Solutions

Outdoor succulents are generally low-maintenance plants, but they can still face a few problems. Here are some common issues that you might encounter with your outdoor succulents and their solutions:

Overwatering and Underwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common problems with outdoor succulents. It can lead to yellow leaves, root rot, and even death. On the other hand, underwatering can cause the leaves to become dry and shriveled.

Solution: Water your outdoor succulents only when the soil is completely dry. Make sure that the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Also, avoid watering the leaves directly, as it can lead to scorching.

Leggy Succulents

Succulents that are not getting enough sunlight can become leggy, which means that they grow tall and thin with elongated stems and small rosettes.

Solution: Move your outdoor succulents to a sunnier location. If that’s not possible, consider pruning them to encourage bushier growth.

Humidity and Wind

Succulents are adapted to dry and arid conditions, so high humidity and strong winds can be detrimental to their health. High humidity can lead to fungal diseases, while strong winds can break the stems and damage the leaves.

Solution: Provide your outdoor succulents with good air circulation and avoid planting them in areas with high humidity. You can also use gravel mulch to retain moisture in the soil and protect the roots from extreme temperatures.

Pests

Mealybugs and other pests can infest outdoor succulents, causing damage to the leaves and stems.

Solution: Check your outdoor succulents regularly for signs of pests. If you find any, remove them by hand or use a natural insecticide like neem oil. Also, make sure to keep the area around your succulents clean and free of dead leaves and debris, which can attract pests.

Using Outdoor Succulents in Landscaping

1. Choose a variety of succulent types: Select a diverse range of succulent species with different colors, textures, and growth habits to add visual interest and create an engaging landscape. Combine rosette-shaped succulents with tall, spiky ones and ground-covering varieties for a dynamic composition.
2. Consider the climate and sun exposure: Ensure that the succulents you choose are suitable for your climate and the specific location’s sun exposure. Some succulents prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade. Adapting your plant selection to the environmental conditions will help them flourish.
3. Consider using containers and raised beds: Incorporate succulents into raised beds or containers to provide better drainage and control soil conditions. It also makes it easy to create focal points and swap out plants if they’re not looking their best. Use various sizes and shapes of containers to add visual appeal.
4. Create focal points: Use larger succulents or unique specimens as focal points within your landscape. These eye-catching plants can serve as focal points, drawing attention and creating visual impact. Place them strategically, such as at the center of a garden bed or near an entrance.
5. Mix succulents with other drought-tolerant plants: Combine succulents with other drought-tolerant plants to create a well-rounded landscape design. Pair them with ornamental grasses, Mediterranean plants, or native plants that share similar water requirements and complement the succulents’ aesthetic.
6. Create texture and contrast: Play with contrasting textures to add depth to your landscape. Pair spiky succulents with softer, more rounded varieties or mix smooth-leaved succulents with those displaying intricate patterns or textures. This interplay of textures creates visual interest.
7. Consider color schemes: Explore different color schemes when choosing succulents. Create harmonious arrangements by selecting succulents with similar hues, such as shades of green, blue, or purple. Alternatively, opt for contrasting color combinations to make certain succulents stand out.
8. Incorporate rocks and gravel: Use rocks, pebbles, or gravel as a natural mulch around your succulents to enhance their aesthetics and improve water retention. Consider using different types of rocks or incorporating larger boulders to add texture and create focal points.
9. Pay attention to scale and proportion: Consider the mature size of each succulent and how it will fit into your overall landscape design. Allow enough space for each plant to grow and ensure that their proportions work harmoniously with other elements in the landscape.
10. Create varying heights and layers: Utilize succulents of different heights and growth habits to add dimension to your landscape. Combine taller succulents at the back or center, medium-sized ones in the middle, and low-growing ones as ground cover to create a layered effect.

Outdoor Succulents Around the World

Succulents are a diverse group of plants that have adapted to thrive in a variety of climates around the world. From the arid deserts of Africa to the cooler regions of Europe, succulents have found a way to survive and even thrive in some of the harshest environments on earth.

In Africa, where temperatures can reach well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and drop dramatically at night, succulents have evolved to store water in their leaves and stems to survive long periods of drought. Some popular outdoor succulents found in Africa include the Aloe vera, Euphorbia tirucalli, and Sansevieria cylindrica.

In Europe, where temperatures are generally cooler and more moderate, succulents have adapted to survive in rocky, mountainous regions with poor soil quality. Some popular outdoor succulents found in Europe include the Sempervivum tectorum, Sedum spurium, and Rosularia sempervivoides.

In the United States, succulents are popular outdoor plants in many regions, especially in the Southwest where the climate is hot and dry. Popular outdoor succulents in the U.S. include the Agave americana, Yucca filamentosa, and Opuntia engelmannii.

Succulents are a hardy and adaptable group of plants that can add a unique and interesting element to any garden or landscape. Whether you live in a hot, arid climate like Africa or a cooler, mountainous region like Europe, there is a succulent out there that can thrive in your environment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some hardy outdoor succulents?

Hardy outdoor succulents include Sedum, Sempervivum, and Agave. These plants can tolerate a range of temperatures and weather conditions, making them ideal for outdoor gardens.

Which succulent plants are best suited for outdoor pots?

Succulent plants that are best suited for outdoor pots include Echeveria, Aeonium, and Crassula. These plants have shallow root systems and can thrive in containers with good drainage.

Can succulents survive outdoors in winter?

Some succulent plants can survive outdoors in winter, but it depends on the climate and the hardiness of the plant. Hardy succulents like Sedum and Sempervivum can withstand freezing temperatures, while others may need to be brought indoors or protected from frost.

What distinguishes outdoor succulents from indoor succulents?

Outdoor succulents are typically more hardy and can tolerate a wider range of temperatures and weather conditions. They also tend to grow larger and have more vibrant colors than indoor succulents.

How do you care for outdoor succulents?

Outdoor succulents require well-draining soil, regular watering during the growing season, and occasional fertilization. They also benefit from full sun exposure and protection from extreme weather conditions.

What are some large succulent plants that can be grown outdoors?

Large succulent plants that can be grown outdoors include Agave, Aloe, and Yucca. These plants can grow several feet tall and wide, making them a striking addition to any outdoor garden.