Planter Lava

Planter lava is a garden favorite for good reason. This brown lava is often used for decoration, and its rough, holey surface gives small plants a place to grow. The Black Lichen Lava page explains how lava forms and why it is full of holes. The warm brown tone blends easily into planting beds, and the stone is light for its size.

Brown, porous and full of character

Each piece is irregular, with pits and holes across the surface.

That texture is what makes it useful. Pockets can hold soil for succulents, mosses and small alpine plants.

Look through the pieces in the yard to find shapes that suit the plants you have in mind.

Ways to use planter lava

Tuck succulents into the holes for a living sculpture, or set a few pieces in a bed as natural decoration.

It also works in rock gardens, container displays and fairy gardens. See the boulders page for larger lava options.

A cluster of three pieces at different heights, each planted with a different succulent, makes a simple garden feature.

Placing and planting

Lava is light for its size, so many pieces can be placed by hand. Wear gloves, since edges can be sharp.

Fill pockets with a gritty soil mix and choose plants that like good drainage. Water gently until roots take hold.

Popular uses

• Succulent planting pockets
• Garden decoration
• Rock gardens
• Container displays
• Fairy gardens