Looking for a way to add some life to your stone walls, rock gardens, or rooftop greenery? You’re in luck! Creative landscaping doesn’t have to be complicated, and groundcovers are the secret weapon for a lush, decorative look. Some of my favorite succulents grow in dense cushions or sprawling carpets, turning any bare spot into a green masterpiece.
Hens and Chicks: The Ultimate Tough Groundcover
The succulent subfamily known as Hens and Chicks goes by the botanical name *Sempervivum*, which literally translates to “always living.” It’s a well-earned title! these little guys stay looking sharp whether they’re baking in the summer heat or shivering through a long winter. There are three varieties in particular that stay low to the ground and make perfect succulent carpets.
First up is ‘Bronze Pastell.’ It features velvety, reddish-tinted leaves and stays under 4 inches tall, making it a unique choice for ground decoration. Then there’s ‘Silberkarneol,’ which is a total showstopper with its silvery, webbed rosettes and vibrant purple blooms during the summer months.
Pro Tip: If you want something a bit different, check out the ‘Rheinkiesel’ Cobweb Houseleek. It has gorgeous blue-green fringed leaves that spread beautifully across the garden floor. Like the others, it stays under 4 inches tall and surprises you with lovely pink flowers in the summer.
Stonecrop: Thriving Where Nothing Else Will
The broad genus of *Sedum*, often called Stonecrop, is at its happiest when things get tough. If you have a dry stone wall or poor soil where other plants struggle, these succulents will thrive. They are legendary for being low-maintenance—honestly, you can usually skip the watering and fertilizing altogether.
For a splash of color, ‘Weihenstephaner Gold’ offers a stunning display of bright yellow flowers. If you prefer interesting foliage, ‘Variegatum’ features white-edged leaves and orange-yellow blooms. And for those who love deep tones, the ‘Purpurteppich’ (Purple Carpet) variety spreads quickly with its rounded, dark red leaves.
Winter Care for Your Succulent Carpets
The best thing about creeping succulents? Since they grow horizontally, you can pretty much toss your pruning shears away. However, even though these varieties are tough, they need a little help building up their winter hardiness during their first couple of years in the ground.
To give your young groundcovers a head start, I recommend providing some light winter protection for the first two seasons. A simple covering of straw or dry leaves works wonders. Just make sure to secure it so it doesn’t blow away during a winter storm, and give it a quick check every now and then to make sure your plants are tucked in tight!
