Though most rock gardens feature combinations of smaller plants and hardy succulents packed in a rocky setting, there are many different sizes, varieties and styles of rock gardens.
A rock garden, also known as an alpine garden or rockery, incorporates stones and boulders with dwarf shrubs and low-growing or creeping plants. Traditional rock gardens are planted at high altitudes where they must withstand the rigors of heat, high winds and drought.
A rock garden may integrate the entire landscape or serve as an accent piece. The planting medium typically is sandy, rocky and almost soilless.