Y
our grandmother was on to something: If you remember
Hens and Chicks, those easy-care, rosette-shaped succu-
lents from her backyard garden, you're in for a surprise.
Succulents are hotter than ever in the landscape. In the past
several years, the popularity of these plants has skyrocketed.
"Five years ago, there were a couple dozen readily available
types. Now, there are almost 200 from which to choose," says
Kathy Rudnyk, specialty accounts manager with Monrovia.
Succulents, or plants that have a fl eshy leaf structure that's
designed to retain water, come in all shapes and sizes. Most
have taproots to seek water, so they're drought tolerant once
established. Despite popular belief, they're not just for full-sun
exposure and warm climates; some tolerate part sun and extreme
cold.
One of their biggest draws: "They're sturdy, far sturdier than
many annuals," Rudnyk says. "Maintenance is almost nonexis-
tent for many succulents."
Succulents work well in beds, containers, vertical gardens and
rock gardens. Some perform as groundcovers, while others are
striking as accent plants or mixed with brightly colored fl ow-
ers or shrubs. Although some succulents cost slightly more than
annuals, they're economical in the long run because you won't
have to keep replanting. They're also good choices for compact
sites, as they are slow growing, taking years to reach their aver-
age landscape size.
Give succulents a second look, and try these new and recently
rediscovered varieties in your next project.
O C T O B E R 2 014 To t a l L a n d s c a p e C a r e . c o m 2 3
foliage
Succulents
What's old is new again
BY ARRICCA ELIN SANSONE
