Thursday Tips: Succulents (Part 1)
Most succulents are native to South Africa. Adapted to drought conditions and arid climates, the most prominent characteristic of succulents is fleshy leaves and stems, where water is stored, and their bright colorful flowers in orange, red, yellow, and pink.
Succulents are easy to grow. They thrive in sunshine and drought conditions and are only particular about the amount of water they receive. Always plant succulents in sandy, well-drained soils. Too much water and the roots will rot away, which is why clay soils and succulents are not a good combination.
One of my favorite succulent plants is Sedum (Sedum spp. or stonecrop. Sedums will grow in USDA zones 3 to 9, which just about covers the temperate zone. Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ is a popular cultivar that blooms in the fall. The pink to dark rose to coppery and russet flowers contrast nicely with the grayish-green leaves.
Sempervivum is another popular succulent that most people know as hens and chicks. It is a low growing succulent that is valued for its texture and foliage rather than its flowers, which are quite delicate in contrast to the form and texture of the plant. Other succulents for the garden include kalanchoe, pearly dots, ice plant, aloe, and echeverias.
Stay tuned for Using Succulents in the Garden (Part 2) next week.
Recommended reading:
Succulents: The Illustrated Dictionary