As gardening enthusiasts continue to embrace the trend of simplicity and natural beauty, succulents have emerged as a star attraction in many households and gardens. Their fleshy leaves and stems, capable of storing water to withstand arid conditions, make them an ideal choice for those seeking low-maintenance yet visually appealing plants. However, to create a truly captivating garden, it is essential to consider what other plants can complement succulents, enhancing their beauty and creating a cohesive, harmonious environment.
Understanding Succulents
Succulents, derived from the Latin word “succulentus,” meaning juicy or full of sap, are plants adapted to survive in dry environments. Their ability to store water in their thickened tissues allows them to thrive in conditions where other plants might struggle. Native to regions such as Africa, Central Asia, and the Americas, succulents come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them versatile and adaptable to various gardening styles.
Choosing Companion Plants
When pairing succulents with other plants, it is crucial to consider factors such as water needs, light requirements, and growth habits. Here are some plant categories and specific examples that can seamlessly blend with succulents, creating a visually stunning garden:
1. Low-Growing Groundcovers
Low-growing groundcovers can fill in the gaps between succulents, creating a lush, carpet-like effect. These plants are typically drought-tolerant and require minimal maintenance, making them an excellent choice for a succulent-focused garden.
Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum): This fragrant herb grows low to the ground, forming a dense mat of tiny leaves and purple, pink, or white flowers. Its delicate appearance and pleasant aroma make it a perfect foil for bold succulents.
Sedum (Sedum spp.): Sedums, also known as stonecrops, are a diverse group of low-growing succulents that can also serve as groundcovers. Species like Sedum morganianum (‘Burro’s Tail’) have trailing stems that cascade beautifully over pots or garden edges, adding texture and movement to the garden.
2. Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses can add height and movement to a succulent garden, creating a dynamic contrast between the rigid forms of succulents and the flowing grace of grasses.
Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides): This warm-season grass features tall, arching stems adorned with fine, feathery foliage that turns golden in autumn. Its delicate texture and color provide a striking backdrop for succulents.
Japanese Silver Grass (Miscanthus sinensis): Known for its tall, graceful stems and silvery-white plumes that shimmer in the breeze, Japanese Silver Grass adds a touch of elegance and drama to the garden. Its ability to handle drought makes it a reliable companion for succulents.
3. Rock Garden Plants
Rock garden plants are ideal for creating a naturalistic, rugged look that complements the hardy nature of succulents. These plants are often compact, with tough, leathery leaves or small, resilient flowers.
Alpine Sempervivum (Sempervivum tectorum): These tiny, rosette-forming succulents are native to alpine regions and thrive in rocky, sunny locations. Their vibrant colors and compact growth habits make them perfect for filling in gaps between larger succulents.
Aubretia (Aubretia deltoidea): This low-growing, evergreen perennial produces masses of bright, fragrant flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white. Its trailing habit allows it to cascade over rocks and crevices, adding color and interest to the garden.
4. Cacti
While cacti are technically a subset of succulents, they offer a distinct aesthetic that can enhance the visual impact of a succulent garden. Their spines, shapes, and flowering habits make them stand out among other plants.
Golden Barrel Cactus (Echinocactus grusonii): This iconic cactus features a round, ribbed body adorned with golden spines. Its striking appearance and slow growth rate make it a focal point in any succulent garden.
Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata): Known for its vibrant, holiday-themed flowers, the Christmas Cactus is a popular choice for indoor succulent gardens. Its delicate blooms and easy-care nature make it a reliable companion for less flashy succulents.
5. Drought-Tolerant Perennials
Certain perennial flowers can thrive in the same conditions as succulents, providing bursts of color and texture throughout the growing season.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): This aromatic perennial is prized for its fragrant purple flowers and silvery-green foliage. Its drought tolerance and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent choice for a succulent garden.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): With its feathery, fern-like foliage and bright, daisy-like flowers, Yarrow adds a touch of whimsy to the garden. Its ability to handle dry conditions makes it a reliable companion for succulents.
Design Principles for a Succulent Garden
When designing a garden that includes succulents and their companions, consider the following principles to ensure a harmonious and visually appealing result:
Contrast and Harmony: Use a mix of textures, colors, and forms to create visual interest. For example, pair bold, colorful succulents with delicate, pastel-colored flowers or contrasting foliage textures.
Layering: Create depth and dimension by layering plants of different heights and widths. Taller plants can serve as focal points, while lower-growing groundcovers can fill in the gaps and provide a sense of unity.
Spacing: Allow enough space between plants to ensure they have adequate room to grow and thrive. Overcrowding can lead to competition for resources and reduced air circulation, which can increase the risk of disease and pest problems.
Soil and Drainage: Succulents require well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Ensure that your garden bed or containers have proper drainage holes and use a soil mix that is appropriate for succulents.
Watering: Succulents have low water needs and should be watered infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Be mindful of the water needs of your companion plants and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Conclusion
Pairing succulents with other drought-tolerant, low-maintenance plants can create a garden that is both visually appealing and easy to care for. By choosing plants that complement each other in terms of texture, color, and growth habit, you can create a cohesive, harmonious environment that showcases the unique beauty of succulents while adding layers of interest and complexity.
Whether you are designing a rock garden, a container garden, or a larger landscape, consider incorporating a mix of succulents and their companions to create a garden that is both beautiful and resilient. With careful planning and thoughtful plant selection, you can create a garden that will thrive and delight you for years to come.
