Hardy Succulents for Year-Round Growth in the UK: A Look at 6 Resilient Species
For those new to succulent gardening, selecting hardy and low-maintenance varieties is crucial for a successful outdoor garden. Here are some top recommendations that thrive in various climates and require minimal care.
## Sempervivum (Houseleeks)
Sempervivum, often referred to as houseleeks, are extremely hardy and able to thrive in a wide range of climates, including cool and variable weather. They form attractive rosettes and spread easily, making them ideal for rockeries or groundcover. Sempervivums require minimal care and are suitable for year-round outdoor growth, even in challenging conditions like the UK.
## Sedum (Stonecrop)
Sedum is a vast genus with many species that are drought-tolerant and prefer well-draining soil. Excellent for beginners, they are forgiving and adapt well to various light conditions. Varieties like "Voodoo Stonecrop" develop vibrant red or purple hues in full sun, adding color to the garden. Ideal for borders, rock gardens, or as groundcover.
## Delosperma (Ice Plant)
Known for their colorful, daisy-like flowers and tolerance to poor soil and drought, Delosperma thrive in sunny spots and are hardy enough for outdoor use year-round. They spread quickly and provide excellent ground cover.
## Certain Echeveria Varieties
While many Echeveria are best as indoor succulents, some Echeveria species are considered hardy and can be grown outdoors in milder climates. Selecting hardy outdoor types (available at specialty nurseries) can be successful for beginners.
## Quick Comparison Table
| Succulent Name | Hardiness | Light Needs | Notable Features | |------------------|-----------|-------------|-------------------------| | Sempervivum | Very High | Full sun | Rosettes, spreads fast | | Sedum | High | Full sun | Colorful, drought-tolerant | | Delosperma | High | Full sun | Flowering, groundcover | | Echeveria (some) | Moderate | Full sun | Rosettes, some hardy |
## Tips for Success
- Choose easy-to-grow, hardy varieties like those above to ensure a resilient and attractive garden. - Provide well-draining soil to prevent root rot. - Plant in sunny locations for best color and growth.
These succulents are perfect for beginners, offering beauty and resilience with minimal effort. Sempervivum (Houseleeks) are rosette-shaped plants that come in various colors and are practically indestructible. The nursery is known for its innovative Starter Packs, Living Walls, Hardy Hanging Baskets, and Gravel Garden Kits.
Niamh Mullally, founder of Southwold Succulent Co, recommends Sempervivums for beginners due to their low maintenance and year-round color and structure. Niamh Mullally and Amy recommend starting with Sedums and Sempervivums for beginners. Delospermas need a dry winter and may need to be planted in pots and brought under cover in wet areas.
Aloe aristata is a hardy aloe variety that can survive outdoors in sheltered, well-drained spots. Amy warns that the UK's wetter climate often makes it tricky to grow Delospermas, and a careful selection is essential. Piccolo Plants Nursery specializes in outdoor-hardy succulent varieties and offers them for sale online.
The diverse range of succulents like Sempervivum (Houseleeks) and Sedum are suitable for a low-maintenance home-and-garden lifestyle, thriving in various climates and requiring minimal care. These hardy plants, such as Delosperma and certain Echeveria varieties, make perfect choices for beginners looking to create a lifestyle-friendly and attractive home-and-garden with a focus on home-and-garden plants.
