The succulent family is absolutely massive, packed with a huge variety of species and unique cultivars. This diverse lineup of exotic water-savers includes plenty of gorgeous, tough-as-nails varieties that are perfect for your backyard. Best of all? Many of them are completely winter-hardy and can handle the frost without breaking a sweat.
Hens and Chicks: The Ultimate Outdoor Succulents
Part of the stonecrop family, “Hens and Chicks” (botanically known as *Sempervivum*) are a must-have for any garden. These plants form stunning, lush leaf rosettes that come in every shade from deep forest green to vibrant burgundy. Once a year, they’ll even treat you to a colorful floral display.
Their botanical name, *Sempervivum*, literally means “always living,” which tells you everything you need to know about how low-maintenance they are. While they don’t need much water, they are total sun-worshippers and crave fresh air. That’s why they usually do much better in an outdoor flower bed than stuck inside as a houseplant.
Stonecrops are Tough and Easygoing
With over 420 species, the *Sedum* genus (commonly called Stonecrops) has something for every style and garden design. Depending on the variety, these beauties can grow anywhere from 4 to 16 inches tall. Generally, Stonecrops win gardeners over with their romantic leaf rosettes and picturesque blooms that pop up during the summer months.
When the temperature drops, these hardy succulents can withstand deep freezes down to -10°F (-23°C). The only real “must” is making sure they stay dry. Like most water-storing plants, Stonecrops hate “wet feet.” If they sit in soggy soil for too long, they’re prone to root rot, so good drainage is key!
Succulent Cacti for Your Garden
While not every cactus is a succulent, there are several succulent cacti that are absolute pros at storing moisture. These specific varieties are incredibly winter-hardy and can stay outdoors year-round without a problem.
If you’re looking for outdoor-friendly cacti, the Prickly Pear (*Opuntia*) is a fantastic choice. It can reach heights of up to 3 feet and handle temperatures as low as -8°F (-22°C). If you need something even tougher, the Hedgehog Cactus (*Echinocereus*) is a champion of the cold, with some subspecies surviving bone-chilling temperatures down to -25°F (-32°C).
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for something a bit more compact for your garden beds, try a Pincushion Cactus. They stay small but are still frost-hardy down to about -13°F (-25°C).
