Success with succulents

Yuccas have great architectural shape but many grow leaves with a terminal spine, so take care where you place them in the garden. Look for Yucca elephantipes that is spineless and will grow in sun, shade and even indoors.

Sedums range from groundcovering plants to the autumn-flowering Sedum spectabile, which reaches a height around 60cm. Most are evergreen but some die down during winter and reappear in spring. Jelly bean plant (Sedum rubrotinctum) and burro’s tail (Sedum morganianum) have a trailing habit perfect for hanging baskets.

Kalanchoes are grown for their interesting leaves and pretty flowers and range in size from groundcovers to large shrubs. Foliage colours vary from silver, grey, green and pink to red, and they can be flecked or variegated.

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