Summer is in full swing, and what better way to soak it all in than with stunning summer-blooming succulents!
Now that we’re at the peak of the season, it’s not just about wearing cool summer outfits and enjoying the beach—you’ve got to bring those sunny vibes into your succulent collection too! And there’s no better way to welcome this season than by planting the best summer-blooming succulents!
Best Summer-Blooming Succulents to Brighten Up Your Garden
1. Ice Plant
Botanical Name: Delosperma spp.
Starting with a succulent whose name is a bit misleading, this one actually thrives in hot weather. It grows low as ground cover in arid areas and produces gorgeous blooms in yellow, purple, and other vivid shades.
If you have been wondering, there is actually a reason for the name, too! It comes from the fact that the plant is covered with tiny hairs. These reflect light in a way that makes the plant look as if it is covered in a thin layer of glittery ice.
2. Stonecrop
Botanical Name: Sedum rupestre ‘Angelina’
As the name suggests, this succulent grows well in rocky terrains. Plus, you’ll find it blooming brightly with small yellow flowers in summer. It grows fast and can cover even large areas with ease.
For best results, grow it in full sun and ensure the soil drains well—just keep it slightly moist, and you’re good to go.
3. Blue Chalksticks
Botanical Name: Senecio serpens
The very first thing that stands out about the Blue Chalksticks is its prominent blue foliage. Add to it the pretty white summer flowers contrasting with the blue, and you have one of the most amazing ground cover succulents!
In terms of care, give it full to partial sunlight and well-draining soil. Once mature, it stays low (just 1–2 inches tall) but spreads up to 2 feet wide!
4. Moss Rose
Botanical Name: Portulaca grandiflora
This low-growing succulent looks lovely both outdoors and inside. Its rose-like flowers bloom in summer and come in red, yellow, pink, and white.
What makes it a keeper? It’s super low-maintenance and thrives even in dry, poor soils where other plants throw in the towel.
Just keep in mind—they love sun, so the more sunshine they get, the better and fuller they bloom!
5. Donkey’s Tail
Botanical Name Sedum morganianum
Native to Mexico, the Donkey’s Tail produces small, star-shaped flowers in clusters at the tips. The contrast between the blooms and blue-green foliage is the actual cherry on top!
Not all plants will bloom, but when they do—expect sweetly fragrant pink or red flowers in late spring or early summer. Bees and butterflies love them!
6. Chalk Dudleya
Botanical Name: Dudleya pulverulenta
This native Californian succulent features pale, powdery leaves arranged in a striking rosette. Its waxy coating gives it a chalky appearance—hence the name.
In the warmer months, this succulent produces tubular red flowers that are especially attractive to hummingbirds. The blooms emerge from tall stalks and look lovely in most landscapes.
7. Fairy Elephant’s Feet
Botanical Name: Frithia pulchra
This tiny succulent from South Africa has translucent-tipped leaves that look like plump little toes. These leaf tips help light reach deeper into the plant.
Come summer, Frithia pulchra puts on a bold display with large, magenta daisy-like flowers—definitely punching above its weight!
8. Lace Aloe
Botanical Name: Aristaloe aristata
Think of it as a mini aloe with attitude. It has dark green leaves lined with white teeth and soft filaments. In summer, tall stalks show off bright orange flowers.
Lace Aloe is tough, pretty, and lures hummingbirds like a magnet. Plus, it handles heat and chill—just give it well-draining soil and some sun.
9. Starfish Cactus
Botanical Name: Orbea variegata
It’s not a cactus, but its name sticks. Starfish Cactus, with its speckled, toothed stems and large starry flowers in yellow and maroon, this summer bloomer is hard to miss.
There’s a catch—the blooms smell like rotting meat to attract flies for pollination. Keep it outdoors when flowering to avoid any unpleasant surprises indoors.
10. Rainbow Elephant Bush
Botanical Name: Portulacaria afra variegates
This colorful variety has rounded leaves with creamy edges and a pink blush in bright light. Though mainly grown for foliage, it can bloom in summer with tiny pink or purplish flowers, especially when mature.
Compact yet spreading, Rainbow Elephant Bush fits both containers and small beds. And it’s edible too—just make sure it’s pesticide-free before nibbling!
So that was the list of the best summer-blooming succulents that you can start growing with. Which one was your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
