Rock gardens suit low, tough plants that like sharp drainage — sedums, hens and chicks, pinks, creeping phlox, thyme and rock cress are the classics for Maine.
- Stonecrop — Succulent and drought proof.
- Hens and Chicks — Rosettes that tuck into cracks.
- Pinks — Low, fragrant mounds.
- Creeping Phlox — Spring carpets of color.
- Creeping Thyme — Fragrant mats between stones.
- Rock Cress — Early white or pink flowers.
- Sea Thrift — Tidy tufts and pink globes.
- Ice Plant — Bright summer color.
- Candytuft — Evergreen with white spring flowers.
- Snow in Summer — Silver leaves, white flowers.
Tips
- Good drainage matters more than anything — add gravel to heavy soil.
- Top-dress with gravel to keep crowns dry.
- Most rock garden plants want full sun.
Frequently asked questions
What soil do rock garden plants need?
Gritty, fast-draining soil. Mix in gravel or coarse sand.
Do rock garden plants need watering?
Water until established; after that most handle dry spells.
Can I grow these in a wall or between pavers?
Yes — sedums, hens and chicks and thyme grow well in cracks.
Are rock garden plants deer resistant?
Many are, including sedum, thyme and pinks.