Most of us choose succulents for our outdoor landscape for their beauty and ability to survive some pretty narly weather conditions. However, even for these rugged beauties there is the possibility of damage caused by extreme low temperatures. It’s important to find succulents varities that work well based on your location’s plant hardiness zone. For those that live in the United States, here’s a link to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map provided by the U.S Department of Agriculture.

 

For those of us that live in areas where the climate can drop to freezing temperatures here’s some information to get you started with planting succulents that can survive the cold months. For starters, you might be wondering what temperatures are considered freezing. At 32°F (0°C), frost becomes more widespread with the possibility of freezing if it drops below this. A hard freeze is possible when temperatures fall below 28°F (-2°C). If you live in an area that can reach these temperatures and have a succulent garden, check out our Tips to Protect Outdoor Succulents from Freezing Temps. We’ve provided some information on what you can do to protect them during the colder months.

 

While many succulents are adapted to warm and arid climates, some species can tolerate freezing temperatures. Here are ten succulents known for their ability to withstand cold weather:

Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum spp.):

• Hens and Chicks are hardy succulents that form rosettes and produce offsets. They are well-known for their cold tolerance and can survive freezing temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C).

 

Stonecrop (Sedum spp.):

• Sedums, commonly known as stonecrop, are diverse succulents with many cold-tolerant varieties. Popular varieties include Sedum spectabile, Sedum acre, and Sedum rupestre. Most Stonecrop varities can tolerate temperatures ranging as low as -20 to -30°F (-28 to -34°C).

 

Yucca (Yucca spp.):

• Yuccas are tough, drought-resistant succulents that can tolerate cold temperatures between -20 to -30°F (-28 to -34°C). They are known for their striking, sword-like leaves and architectural presence in the garden.

 

Ice Plant (Delosperma spp.):

• Ice plants are ground-covering succulents with vibrant, daisy-like flowers. They are well-suited for cold climates ranging between -20°F (-28°C)  and can even tolerate snow.

 

Agave (Agave spp.):

• While many agave species are native to warm climates, some can tolerate freezing temperatures as low as -20°F (-28°C) . Agave parryi and Agave neomexicana are examples of cold-hardy agaves.

 

Sedum Autumn Joy (Hylotelephium ‘Herbstfreude’):

• This cultivar of Sedum is particularly hardy and is prized for its late-season blooms. It can endure frost in temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C) and still maintain its attractive appearance.

 

Sempervivum arachnoideum (Cobweb Houseleek):

• This variety of hens and chicks has a unique appearance with web-like hairs on its leaves. It is known for its cold resistance and forms tight rosettes. You can feel confident that this beauty will survive temperatures as low as -15°F (-26°C)

 

Opuntia (Prickly Pear Cactus):

• Some species of Opuntia, especially those native to colder regions, can endure freezing temperatures. Opuntia humifusa is an example that can withstand cold climates as low as -30°F (-34°C)

 

Rhodiola rosea (Rose Root or Roseroot):

• Rhodiola rosea is a cold-resistant succulent known for its adaptogenic properties. It’s a unique addition to cold-hardy succulent gardens that can withstand temperatures as low as -58°F (-50°C).

 

Jovibarba heuffelii (Rolling Hen and Chickens):

• Similar to Sempervivum, Jovibarba heuffelii forms rosettes but is known for its ability to “roll” and tumble, creating an interesting and hardy ground cover. This plant can survive low temperatures that range between -20 to -30°F (-28 to -34°C).

Remember that even cold-tolerant succulents may benefit from some protection during extreme cold events, especially when temperatures drop significantly. Providing extra mulch and shelter during harsh weather can help ensure their survival.