Types of Landscape Rocks & Boulders

Lava Rock

• Created by cooled volcanic lava, rough lava rock dries in red, chocolate or black colors. Air bubbles form in lava rock as it cools, making it lighter than other rocks. Plants surrounded by lava rock breathe easier because of the porous nature of lava rock. Although sharp and somewhat scratchy when handled, lava rock creates traction when used on snow-packed roadways or sidewalks. Lava rock adds color and texture to potted plants and flowerbeds.

White Marble

• Available in rocks or chips, white marble makes the landscape glow. White marble rocks are somewhat bulky and do not work well for pathways. Layer white marble chips or rocks in moon gardens, around evergreen trees and shrubs, or anywhere the landscape requires brightening.

Pea Gravel

• Attractive and natural-looking, the small, round stones of pea gravel make a smooth surface for walking or driving when spread out evenly. Available in nature’s colors of brown, tan, black, white and grays, pea gravel suits most landscape designs. Pea gravel creates quiet ambiance in Japanese gardens. Pea gravel softens paths and driveways.

Rose Quartz

• Sparkling and attractive define this decorative rock. Opaque and pale white to deep rose pink in color, rose quartz lends elegance to the landscape. Rose quartz gains its rich color through the addition of manganese and titanium in the quartz rock. Garden beds filled with rose quartz look stunning when viewed from afar. Rose quartz rocks are used in jewelry crafting. Sold in bulk at boulder and stone contractors or easy to handle bags at garden supply centers and craft stores, rose quartz rock adds to the beauty of the landscape.

River Rock

• River rock mixes include such stones as agates and jaspers, and rocks in white, red, brown, black and striped colors. River rock is readily available at building supply stores, landscaping and rock contractors, or garden centers. Although similar in look and texture to pea gravel, river rock is larger. A dry creek bed made of river rock pleases aesthetically and creates wet season drainage. Polished river rocks are used for crafts as well as outdoor projects.

White Dolomite Boulders

• Found worldwide, white dolomite never loses its brilliant white color. The quartz that runs throughout white dolomite boulders gives them a lustrous appearance. White dolomite boulders look best when grouped together and accented with decorative red rocks.

Missouri Red Granite Boulders

• Missouri red granite is smooth and hard. The red colorations of Missouri red granite differ only in hue, some being darker than others. Missouri red granite is extremely heavy and difficult to move. The often angular edges of Missouri red granite show off the boulder’s beautiful striations of color. Frequently used for tombstones, Missouri red granite isn't easily damaged. Missouri red granite boulders enhance the landscape and make great conversational objects.