Suzy Schaefer's succulent garden in Rancho Santa Fe "saved our home," she told me (and national media)... Their garden of aloes, agaves, euphorbias and more---created by Suzy with the help of San Diego landscape architect Robert Dean---encircles the Southwest-style home, which is adjacent to a palm- and eucalyptus-filled canyon. Although it may seem absurd to allow succulents to be used as landscape plants, this is likely not necessary. There's plenty more that homeowners need to know in order to create a firewise landscape.

It's common to purchase a brightly colored succulent only to see it turn a dull brown or a green within a few weeks. Pre-made mixes are also available if you don’t have the time. The warmest months are the best for taking cuttings of an existing iceplant. It is a good idea not to take cuttings from stressed or dehydrated plants, but healthy looking plants with plump and healthy leaves. The fleshy leaves can look like dolphins and become translucent in low light conditions. Low light situations can cause succulents to display their vibrant coloration only when there is a lot of natural light.

The Echeveria Prolifica is an Echeveria Prolifica glaucus succulent with a pale gray-to-light greenish color. If the plant does not receive adequate sunlight, it loses its vibrancy and becomes a dull gray color. Native to Mexico, Sedum Rubrotinctum 'Aurora' have small, jelly bean shaped leaves that are pale green, pinkish mauve in color. Agave is so fibrous that outdoor rugs can be made from the fibers of certain varieties. Artichoke Agave combines E. Gibbiflora v. Metallica with A. gentryi.