Not every succulent needs winter quarters. Houseleeks, stonecrop and sedum are among the species that cope well with frost and snow and can stay outdoors all year round. Even so, there are a few things to keep in mind – especially in pots. In this article you will learn which succulents are truly hardy, how to protect them and which species you should bring indoors.
What does hardy mean for succulents?
Hardy means that a plant tolerates frost for extended periods without damage. For succulents, however, it is not just the cold that matters but above all wetness. A houseleek survives severe frost if it stands dry – with continuous rain and waterlogging in heavy soil, it can still die. Winter hardiness therefore always depends on the species, the variety and the location.
Sempervivum: the winter specialists
The houseleek (Sempervivum), also called hen and chicks or roof houseleek, is the best-known hardy succulent. Its name means 'always living' – and that is exactly how it behaves: the rosettes keep their leaves even in winter. Depending on the variety, most houseleeks are considered hardy down to about −18 to −22 °C, and some species tolerate even much lower temperatures. In the cold, the rosettes contract and often turn reddish – this is normal and not a sign of damage.
Houseleeks like it sunny, lean and well-draining. That is exactly why they thrive in rock gardens, dry stone walls, troughs and even on roofs. If you would like to try different varieties, you will find a selection in our category Sempervivum, for example the Sempervivum mix pack with various varieties or the golden-yellow Sempervivum heuffelii 'Gold Bug'.
Sedum: hardy or not?
With Sedum it pays to take a closer look, because the genus is very diverse. Many species that grow in the garden as stonecrop or sedum are hardy. Others are not: houseplant Sedum such as Sedum rubrotinctum 'Jelly Beans' cannot tolerate frost and must be overwintered frost-free. Always check the hardiness of the specific species before leaving it outdoors.
Overview: hardy or not?
| Plant | Hardy? | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Sempervivum (houseleek) | Yes | Usually down to about −18 to −22 °C; avoid wetness |
| Sedum (garden species such as stonecrop) | Mostly yes | Check species and variety |
| Sedum rubrotinctum 'Jelly Beans' | No | Overwinter frost-free and bright |
| Echeveria, Graptoveria, Pachyveria | No | Overwinter indoors |
| Lithops (Living Stones) | No | Frost-free, bright and dry |
Overwintering hardy succulents in pots
In a bed the soil acts as a buffer; in a pot it is different: the roots are exposed to frost on all sides, and water can collect in the container. With these measures your plants will get safely through the winter:
- Ensure drainage: The drainage hole must be clear, and no water should stand in the saucer.
- Place them protected from rain: A spot under the roof overhang or against the house wall keeps off continuous rain.
- Insulate the pot: Stand the pot on wood or polystyrene so that no ground cold rises up, and wrap it with jute or fleece if necessary.
- Choose frost-proof containers: Some clay pots can crack when they absorb water and freeze.
- Do not fertilize and water hardly at all: In winter the plants are dormant – outdoors you usually do not need to water at all.
A mineral, well-draining substrate is half the battle. You will find suitable mixes in our category Substrate mixes.
In beds and rock gardens
Outdoors, hardy succulents above all need a sunny spot and well-draining soil. A layer of gravel or grit in the planting hole improves water drainage. On raised beds, slopes and dry stone walls houseleeks do especially well because water runs off quickly there. Snow is not a problem – the combination of thaw, continuous rain and heavy soil is more critical.
Common mistakes
- Heavy, clayey soil: It retains water and promotes rot.
- Leaves on the rosettes: Remove autumn leaves regularly, otherwise they stay damp.
- Full saucers: Water in the saucer freezes and traps moisture in the pot.
- Leaving non-hardy species outdoors: Echeveria and others belong indoors when there is frost. You can read how to overwinter them properly in our article Overwintering succulents.
Conclusion
Sempervivum and many Sedum species are true winter artists and an uncomplicated way to enjoy succulents in the garden or on the terrace too. Pay attention to drainage, rain protection and a well-draining substrate – then you hardly need to do anything in winter. Non-hardy species, on the other hand, come indoors frost-free. That way you can enjoy your collection all year round.
