1. Sempervivum (Hens and Chicks)
Sempervivum is more than just “Hens and Chicks.” This genus has hundreds of varieties, each bringing unique colors and textures to winter gardens.
Varieties like Sempervivum tectorum and Sempervivum arachnoideum develop rosettes that shift to a rich purple or red as temperatures drop. Because cold nights and snowy winters cause them to produce anthocyanins aka red pigments inside their leaves.
2. Sedum Kamtschaticum
Sedum kamtschaticum is a cold-hardy, resilient groundcover that brings vibrant seasonal color and structure to winter gardens. Known for its adaptability in Zones 3-8, this sedum maintains its green leaves as the weather begins to cool, shifting to beautiful shades of pink and red as temperatures drop further.
By the coldest months, the foliage falls, leaving behind dried flower stalks and stems that add subtle texture to winter landscapes. This plant’s hardy structure persists through frost and snow, creating a natural framework until early spring, when fresh green shoots emerge and bring new life.
3. Agave Parryi (Artichoke Agave)
Agave Parryi is part of a broader family of agaves, yet it stands out as one of the most cold-resistant, hardy to Zone 5. This architectural beauty is known for its dense rosette of blue-gray leaves tipped with dark spines, giving it a dramatic, almost sculptural look in winter gardens.
Agave parryi ‘Huachucensis’ is a popular variety with a slightly broader leaf, adding an even bolder presence. Be cautious, though: agaves contain sap that can irritate skin and are best kept away from pets due to potential toxicity. In the right spot, however, Agave Parryi is a garden showstopper that needs little attention.
4. Delosperma (Ice Plant)
Delosperma, or Ice Plant, is a frost-loving succulent with a knack for blooming when most other plants have retreated. Hardy to Zone 5, it shows off bright pink, purple, or yellow blooms through spring and early fall, with evergreen foliage that endures the cold.
Delosperma’s name comes from the tiny “ice-like” crystals on its leaves, which help reflect sunlight and give it a frost-kissed appearance. This succulent loves the sun and well-draining soil, making it a colorful, easy-going addition that adds charm to even the frostiest days.
5. Graptopetalum (Ghost Plant)
Graptopetalum, fondly known as the Ghost Plant, has soft, pastel rosettes that bring elegance to winter landscapes. Hardy from Zones 7-10, it transforms in colder weather, intensifying to lovely shades of lavender, pink, and blue.
Graptopetalum paraguayense, a popular variety, cascades gracefully in pots or rock gardens, making it a fantastic choice for adding gentle color. Non-toxic and pet-safe, Ghost Plants are also low-maintenance. After frost in winter, when spring come, they surprise with small, star-shaped yellow flowers, adding an extra touch of charm to their frosty allure.
6. Aloe Aristata (Lace Aloe)
Aloe Aristata, or Lace Aloe, is known for its charming lace-like white speckles and frilled edges. Hardy to Zone 7, this aloe variety can handle light frost, bringing its unique texture to winter gardens. Its compact shape makes it perfect for smaller garden spaces or container arrangements.
Like most aloes, it prefers well-draining soil and needs only occasional watering during winter. When placed in a sunny spot, it rewards with vibrant green tones that sometimes turn a lovely reddish shade in colder weather. Lace Aloe is low-maintenance and ideal for adding winter charm with minimal fuss.
7. Orostachys (Dunce Cap)
Orostachys, affectionately called Dunce Cap, is as tough as it is whimsical. This little succulent is hardy down to Zone 5, making it an interesting addition to winter gardens. Its rosettes grow in tight, layered patterns, resembling miniature towers that stand tall through chilly weather.
Dunce Cap requires well-draining soil and minimal watering, as excess moisture can lead to rot. With proper care, its unique structure remains vibrant even under a dusting of snow, adding a touch of whimsy to winter landscapes.
8. Opuntia (Prickly Pear Cactus)
Opuntia, commonly known as Prickly Pear Cactus, stands out as one of the few cacti that thrives in frosty weather, hardy to Zone 4. Its flat pads develop a purple tint in cold conditions, giving it a distinct winter aesthetic.
Opuntia’s spines and glochids add texture to gardens, but it’s best to handle with care! This cactus requires minimal watering in winter, as excess moisture can lead to root rot. With its resilience and unique look, Opuntia brings a hint of desert flair to cold climates.
9. Echeveria ‘Imbricata’
Echeveria ‘Imbricata,’ often called the "Blue Rose," is a hardy, compact succulent known for its beautifully layered blue-green rosettes that bring structure and elegance to winter gardens. Adaptable in Zones 7-11, this resilient echeveria can handle mild frosts, with its color intensifying to deeper blue and purple hues as temperatures dip.
During the colder months, ‘Imbricata’ maintains its leaves, creating a striking focal point even when other plants go dormant. As winter passes, this echeveria holds its shape and color, ready to burst with new growth when spring arrives..
To keep it healthy in winter, place Imbricata in well-draining soil and provide a sunny spot. Its need for protection from heavy frost means you can keep them ideally for indoor-outdoor pots or sheltered garden areas.
10. Jovibarba (Rollers)
Closely related to Sempervivum, Jovibarba is known for its hardy nature and playful “rolling” rosettes that detach and spread, earning them the nickname “Rollers.” Hardy to Zone 4, Jovibarba’s leaves shift from green to reddish tones in winter, creating a lively ground cover in snowy landscapes.
These low-maintenance succulents need only well-draining soil and a sunny location to thrive. Jovibarba is perfect for those looking to add a carefree, spreading element to their winter gardens without much upkeep.
11. Euphorbia Myrsinites (Myrtle Spurge)
Euphorbia Myrsinites, or Myrtle Spurge, is a trailing succulent with spiraling blue-green leaves that add unique texture to winter gardens. Hardy down to Zone 5, it withstands frost and remains evergreen even under snow.
Myrtle Spurge prefers well-draining soil and thrives in full sun, needing minimal water, especially in winter. Its yellow blooms appear in spring, bringing a warm contrast to its cool-toned foliage. This spurge’s striking form and frost tolerance make it a standout choice for colder climates.
12. Rosularia Platyphylla
Rosularia platyphylla might look soft, but don’t let it fool you—this succulent is tough enough to survive in Zone 5. Its small, cozy rosettes huddle together like a green cushion, staying intact even through frost and light snow.
Rosularia’s slightly fuzzy leaves help protect it from frost, and it fits beautifully into rock gardens or as ground cover, blending seamlessly with stone or gravel. When spring arrives, it dots the green cushion with tiny pink or white flowers, adding a final touch of charm.
13. Sedum Ternatum (Woodland Stonecrop)
Sedum Ternatum is a shade-tolerant gem, ideal for woodland gardens in Zones 4-9. Its low-growing spread covers the ground with delicate green leaves that survive frost, creating a beautiful winter look.
In early spring, tiny white flowers add an elegant touch. Woodland Stonecrop thrives with occasional watering and is perfect for shaded gardens needing winter interest.
14. Phedimus Spurius (Two Row Stonecrop)
Phedimus Spurius, or Two Row Stonecrop, will turn a rich red in winter, creating a colorful carpet for cold-climate gardens. Hardy to Zone 3, this sedum is perfect for ground cover, adding vibrancy to snowy areas.
Its succulent leaves retain water, allowing it to survive frost without frequent watering. Phedimus thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it a visually striking, easy-to-maintain choice for winter landscapes.
15. Hylotelephium (Autumn Joy Sedum)
Hylotelephium, or Autumn Joy Sedum, keeps its blooms well into winter, bringing interest long after other plants have faded. Hardy to Zone 4, it offers lovely pink flowers that dry to a golden-brown, creating a rustic look against snow.
Autumn Joy prefers full sun and can tolerate some shade, with minimal watering needed in winter. Its structure and lasting blooms make it an excellent choice for adding height and texture to winter landscapes.