Succulent plants offer something very special to the garden. The fleshy, evergreen leaves are often glaucous and as a group they add another very different texture to a garden scene.

Succulents fall into many different genera and come from many parts of the world. What unites them is their ability to withstand long periods without water. Many succulents are native to dry, arid areas, including deserts, where rainfall is scarce. As such, they require very little watering and are suitable for growing in low-maintenance planting schemes.

Popular succulents include sedums, sempervivums, agaves, aeoniums and pearl ribbons. All are grown for their foliage rather than their flowers. Succulents are also good houseplants.

How to Grow SucculentsGrow succulents in free-draining soil or compost, such as cactus compost, in full sun to partial shade. Water sparingly from spring to autumn, but avoid watering completely during autumn and winter. Most succulents grow slowly. If you grow them in pots, turn them over with fresh compost every two years