Showy Succulents for Warm Climates

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Aeonium 'Zwartkop' A plant collector's delight, the deep-purple, near-black rosettes of 'Zwartkop' are quite stunning in the garden. There are few options in the plant world that offer this color and unique texture, so use it as a specimen or plant in masses for maximum effect. 'Zwartkop' contrasts nicely with the blue-gray colors and textures of blue fescue (Festuca glauca 'Elijah Blue') and blue lyme grass (Elymus arenarius). Combine it with low-growing golden creeping jenny (Lysimachia nummularia 'Aurea'), which will be nice when 'Zwartkop' produces its bright yellow summer flowers. Or, plant with other similar colors to create a chocolate-flavored garden: Use with caramel-colored carex (Carex flagellifera 'Toffee Twist'), New Zealand flax (Phormium), burgundy-leaved pineapple lily (Eucomis comosa 'Sparkling Burgundy') and Pennisetum 'Prince' or 'Princess.' Plant 'Zwartkop' in full sun to dappled shade as the sunlight helps to retain the rich color. However, in climates with extreme heat, plant it in a bit more shade. It grows best in a well-draining soil with deep, infrequent waterings. It has a clumping growth habit and reaches two to three feet tall. Drought tolerant. Hardy to USDA Zones 9 to 11.