A unique solution to stone steps at a Japanese-inspired teahouse in Texas. Steps were created from sawn Antique Leuders limestone, with internal positive drainage provided by granite gravel fill. Hidden drip-tubing irrigation waters the plants, which are primarily succulents, including stonecrop (Sedum), chartreuse Japanese stonecrop (Sedum makinoi' 'Ogon'), ghost plant (Graptopetalum paraguayensis), crassula, various Echeverria cultivars, and hens and chicks. The palm-like plant at the corner is actually a cycad (Zamia furfuracea), another tough, drought-tolerant plant. Hardscaping Ideas

— image courtesy of Root Design Company