Yes – these lovelies will surprise you with attractive flowers that appear in different colors, shapes, and sizes. Some flowers even emit a mild, pleasant scent while others produce edible fruit!

In this article, we’ll present our choices for the best succulents that make flowers. These succulents will bloom whether they’re grown indoors or outdoors. Before we go to our list, there’s a key component that’s needed to ensure your charming plants bloom on time. 

Succulents Need Sunlight To Produce Flowers

Although most varieties of succulents grew in dry and humid conditions with regular exposure to bright light, they can also grow indoors. However, to help the succulent bloom, you have to make sure your plant gets its regular dose of the sun’s rays. 

Succulent plants will do well whether they’re exposed to partial or full sun. There are succulents that will prefer full sunlight in order to achieve the maximum spectrum of colors. 

If these succulents are what you prefer, you can create a sunny environment for them simply by placing the plants under a Grow Light for up to 6 hours per day.

As for water, do the opposite. Unlike sunlight, succulents don’t need much water. In fact, watering these plants frequently or while there’s moisture in the soil will do more harm than good. 

One reason why succulents have thrived in the desert and tropical regions is that their leaves and stems store a lot of water. Keeping the roots immersed in a moist environment can cause them to rot. 

Best Succulents That Make Flowers

Now that you know the golden rule – more sunlight and less water – let’s find out the best succulents you can grow that produce beautiful flowers. 

1. Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is also known as ‘Christmas Plant’ because just like the Yuletide holidays, this colorful and captivating succulent brings a lot of warmth and good cheer to any space 365 days a year. 

Another nickname for Christmas Plant is ‘Florist Kalanchoe’ because it makes pretty clusters of tiny flowers in a range of colors – pink, magenta, red, white, and orange. 

Florist Kalanchoe produces flowers on days that are colder and shorter. So, yes, true to its alias, Christmas Plant will gift you with flowers during the winter season – maybe even on Christmas Day!The best part is that the colorful cluster of cheerful flowers will last a long time. 

2. Echeveria ‘Perle von Numberg’

‘Breathtaking’ is one word that florists will use to describe Echeveria ‘Perle von Numberg’. The leaves are flat, and wide, and have a pastel purple color with bright pink margins that form a single rosette. 

Look closely at the leaves and you’ll notice white-colored, dust-like particles on its surface. All of these elements help turn Perle von Numberg into a mesmerizing beauty. No wonder this succulent was cited with the prestigious Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society. 

Perhaps the most interesting characteristic of Echeveria is that it produces 5 to 6 flowering stems every year. These stems can bloom small, coral-colored, bell-shaped flowers with yellow interiors in the summer or early spring. 

3. Aloe Brevifolia

Aloe brevifolia captivates onlookers with its colors and unusual appearance. Short-leaf Aloe’s leaves start out light blue and then turn pink and bright yellow when exposed to full light. 

The leaves are thick, fleshy, and have a triangular shape. Its edges are lined with white spines that give the illusion of jagged teeth. Short-leaf Aloe can reach a maximum height of 2 feet (60cm) and spread about the same. 

In the springtime, Aloe brevifolia will produce bright orange-colored flowers that have a tubular shape above the foliage. These beautiful flowers will surely add more color and pop to your garden.

4. Opuntia Engelmannii var. Lindheimeri

Opuntia engelmannii var lindheirmeri is a bushy succulent that fascinates with its ping-pong paddle-shaped, thick, and fleshy leaves that grow to a length of 12 inches (30 cm). 

The leaves have a bluish-green color and are covered by short, prickly spines that are 1 inch (2.54 cm) long and vary in color from dull yellow, white, brown, or tan. From spring to summer, you’ll see several clusters of enchanting orange and yellow flowers growing along the edges of the leaves. 

Engelmannii Prickly Pear will also reward you with juicy, red fruits that measure 2 inches (5 cm) long. These fruits are edible and are commonly used to make jams, candy, syrups, and jellies. 

5. Echinopsis Oxygona

Echinopsis oxygona or Easter Lily Cactus is a succulent that’s popularly used in garden beds or as a border because it grows fast and forms clusters that can spread as far out as 2 feet (60 cm). 

Easter Lily Cactus has a globular shape and features cylindrical stems that have ribs. The stems are colored green, can reach a height of 1 foot (30 cm), and are covered with short, dark-colored spines. 

Horticulturists love Echinopsis oxygona for its large, long, and white or pink-colored flowers that appear from late spring and throughout summer. The flowers have a funnel shape and emit a mild, pleasant scent. 

The flowers often come out in the late afternoon and some might wither the following day. However, Easter Lily Cactus will bear large, green-colored fruits. 

Echinopsis oxygona is a recipient of the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society.

6. Sempervivum Hedgehog

Sempervivum hedgehog only grows to a maximum height of 3 inches (7.62 cm) and 6 inches wide (15.24 cm). But what it lacks in size, the succulent more than makes up for in beauty. 

The arrow-shaped leaves of hedgehog are colored lime green in the middle and as it spreads out, the colors become dark red. Sempervivum’s leaves will form a tight and symmetrical rosette 

In the springtime, hedgehog will bloom enthralling red and orange flowers. This is a monocarpic succulent and will die after it produces flowers. However, upon maturity, the succulent will produce offsets on top of the plant. 

These offsets will naturally break off and roll to the ground. You can use these offsets to propagate the species. 

7. Pachyphytum Oviferum

Pachyphytum oviferum is also known as ‘Pink Moonstone’ but you can also call it adorable. This clump-forming succulent is easily recognizable by its short, stumpy, and oval-shaped leaves that could appear with a bluish-purpose to a bluish-green color. 

However, there are times when the leaves might come out to have a pinkish or peach color. You’ll notice that the leaves have a waxy texture. The purpose of this wax-like substance is to protect Pink Moonstone from the sun’s scorching rays. 

Pink Moonstone or Sugar Almond Plant will produce bell-shaped flowers on top of 12-inch (30 cm) stalks in the early winter to early spring. The petals of these flowers are cream-colored and are accented with a dark purplish-red spot with greenish-white sepals. 

Conclusion

Given their varied colors and shapes, it’s no surprise that succulents are beautiful plants. What often surprises first-time horticulturists is that there are many types of succulents that bloom flowers. 

You can help your succulent produce flowers with proper care. As long as the plant gets 6 hours of partial to full sunlight every day and the soil receives water between dry periods, your plant will reward you with beautiful blooms when the season is right.

Last Updated on December 20, 2022 by Sofia Lara

The post Best Succulents That Make Flowers appeared first on About Succulents.

What Are Terrariums?

Terrariums make excellent containers for succulents because they function as self-sustaining ecosystems. There are 2 types of terrariums – Closed and Open Terrarium. 

With a closed terrarium, the plant is grown inside a sealed vessel usually a glass jar. Once the jar is sealed, the terrarium starts to produce the humidity that ranges from 70% to 90%.

Succulents don’t require much water. The rule for watering succulents is to only water the soil in between dry periods. Thus, when a succulent is grown inside a closed terrarium, the moisture creates a cycle whereby the plant receives water correctly. 

For closed terrariums, the ideal types of succulents to grow are varieties that thrive in a tropical environment.

In contrast, an open terrarium is a container without a lid. Since moisture isn’t created, there’s no water cycle and the soil has to be watered whenever it has dried out completely. 

There are some terrarium containers that have a drain hole at the bottom to allow excess moisture to filter out. If your container doesn’t have a drain hole, you can add a drainage layer made of pebbles and gravel to collect and store excess moisture.

Keep in mind that the environment of an open terrarium encourages moisture to escape from the soil. But it would be a good idea to err on the side of caution and include a drainage layer. 

The best succulents for open-type terrariums are varieties that prefer dry and arid conditions. 

The Best Succulents For Terrariums

In this article, we’ll present the best succulents for both open and closed terrariums. Choose the ones that fit perfectly in your home in terms of looks and convenience.

Open Terrariums

1. Echeveria ‘Cubic Frost’

Echeveria ‘Cubic Frost’ is a charming succulent that grows up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall and allures onlookers with its distinctive leaves. The leaves of Cubic Frost have a wavy shape, and waxy texture, range in color from lilac to pink, and form compact rosettes that can spread out to 10 inches (25 cm).

From spring to summer, Echeveria ‘Cubic Frost’ will produce small, orange-colored, and bell-shaped flowers. This variety of echeveria is a hybrid of 2 species – Echeveria ‘Doppler’ and R-21. 

The waxy texture of Cubic Frost protects it from the intense rays of the sun. Make sure Cubic Frost receives 6 hours of partial sun every day.

2. Sedum Rubrotinctum

One look at the leaves of Sedum rubrotinctum and you’ll know right away why it’s more popularly called Sedum ‘Jelly Bean’.

The leaves are short, plump, colored green, and pink at the tips. They also have a curved shape just like a regular bean. The delightful-looking beans look like green-colored jelly beans growing on stems.

Jelly Bean will only grow to a height of 8 inches (20 cm) and will tend to lean on one side. In the springtime, expect Jelly Bean to bloom small, yellow-colored, star-shaped flowers. 

The cool thing about Jelly Bean is that the plant can tolerate frosty conditions as well as periods of drought. Place Jelly Bean outside your windowsill and it won’t matter if it snows or gets directly exposed to the morning sun.

3. Crassula Ovata ‘Minima’

Crassula Ovata ‘Minima’ is a smaller variety of the ever-popular species of Crassula ovata or ‘Jade Plant’. In addition to Crassula’s beauty, people grow this type of succulent because it’s believed the plant can bring fortune to one’s home.

Minima has small, flat, paddle-shaped leaves that have a dark green color and are tinged with red at the margins. 

Also known as ‘Baby Jade’, ‘Miniature Jade’, and ‘Small Jade’, Minima can grow up to 23 inches (60cm) although its height can be controlled by the size of its container.

During the Fall season, Baby Jade will produce clusters of white and pink-colored flowers. Miniature Jade prefers receiving partial sun for up to 6 hours per day.

Closed Terrariums

Faucaria Tigrina

Faucaria Tigrina is a succulent plant that’s popular with horticulturists because of its beautiful flowers and interesting-looking leaves. It gets its common name ‘Tiger’s Jaw’ from its leaves – thick, fleshy, triangle-shaped, and with jagged edges that look like teeth. 

These ‘teeth’ are quite harmless and serve the natural purpose of collecting moisture that’s important for the plant to bring water down to its roots. The leaves create a clump-forming rosette. Tiger’s Jaw only grows up to 3 inches (8 cm) tall. 

During the late fall to early winter months, Tiger’s Jaw will produce bright yellow flowers that have long, arching, and slim petals. 

Echeveria ‘Minima’

Echeverias are sought after for their tropical allure and durability, and because they’re among the easiest succulents to grow and care for. Echeveria ‘Minima’ is the perfect succulent to grow inside your home. 

Minima is identifiable by its elegant blue-green colored leaves with pink tips and form a compact rosette. In the springtime, Minima will blossom. You’ll welcome the spring with pink and yellow flowers that are shaped like tiny bells. 

Because they only grow up to 3 inches (7.62 cm), Minimas make excellent gifts to friends. They prefer partial sun exposure, don’t require much watering, and will thrive inside closed containers.  

Sempervivum ‘Little Bobo’

Sempervivum ‘Little Bobo’ is a delightful, petite succulent that doesn’t grow past 3 inches (7.62 cm) at full maturity. 

Little Bobo’s leaves are colored lime green with white tips and shaped like an arrow. The leaves form a compact and symmetrical rosette. While Little Bobo needs full sun exposure to achieve its colors, it will also do well with partial sun. 

This durable succulent doesn’t need frequent watering and will grow just fine with the moisture cycle created by the closed container ecosystem. Likewise, Little Bobo can tolerate frosty weather. 

Its durability to low-light conditions and extreme temperature changes make Little Bobo one of the more popular choices of plant hobbyists who live in tight apartments.  

Conclusion

If an aquarium is outside your budget, go for a terrarium instead. Growing and taking care of succulent plants can be as relaxing as raising fish. 

It’s not necessary to feed succulents fertilizer. All you have to do is to make sure your succulent receives its daily dose of sunlight and water the soil when it’s gone completely dry. 

You won’t flex a muscle taking care of a closed terrarium because its environment ensures the succulent receives water when it’s needed.

Last Updated on December 20, 2022 by Sofia Lara

The post Best Succulents For Terrariums appeared first on About Succulents.

With so many types of succulents to choose from in varying colors, shapes, sizes, and textures, the landscaper’s creativity will break all boundaries. Likewise, Interior Designers who want to add color, excitement, and energy – the ‘life’ – in a home’s living spaces. 

Is it still possible to maximize the natural charm and allure of succulents? Yes, with the use of the right pot. 

How To Choose The Right Pot For Your Succulent

Before we go through our list of best succulents to grow in pots, let’s discuss how to choose the right pot. The 3 tips that we share in this section are important because if you choose the wrong pot, your succulent plant can die. 

1. Material

The best pot for your succulent is one that supports aeration or the entry of air into the soil. Without proper aeration, the soil can’t drain as fast as possible and will retain moisture longer. 

Keeping succulents in a moist environment for a prolonged period isn’t good because their roots will rot. Once the roots start to rot, the plant becomes vulnerable to getting contaminated by bacteria or fungi that are growing in the soil. 

For this reason, choose a pot that’s made of either terracotta or unglazed ceramic because these materials absorb moisture quickly. 

2. Drain Hole

Remember that when you water the soil, it must be drenched thoroughly. Therefore, the pot must have a drain hole at the bottom to filter out excess water from the soil and protect the roots from rotting.

3. Size

Choose a pot that’s slightly larger than the base of the succulent plant. As the succulent grows, so will its roots. Without enough space to spread, the roots will get entangled and soil aeration will be affected. 

Be ready to repot the succulent if it’s getting too big for its container. Also, if you’re repotting because you’re nursing the succulent from a case of root rot, always use a brand-new pot. 

The Best Succulents For Pots

Pots are a wonderful way of organizing succulents, emphasizing themes, and establishing boundaries. Plant trailing succulents in hanging containers and give your outdoor patio a feel of nature. Imagine long, green-colored, cascading leaves hanging outside baskets – reminiscent of a tropical waterfall.

As indoor plants, succulents are a welcome addition as contrasts in a minimalist-designed home. Potted exotic-looking succulents become conversation starters in any living space. 

Here is a short list of the best succulents you can grow in a pot.

1. Agave Victoriae-reginae 

Agave Victoriae- reginae is a breathtakingly beautiful succulent plant that will undoubtedly make your outdoor garden or any living space in your home an instant standout. 

The most striking feature of this succulent which also goes by the common names ‘Queen Victoria Century Plant’, ‘Queen Victoria Agave’, and ‘Royal Agave’ is its emerald green leaves. 

The white markings that can be found on the surface and margins of each leaf appear to be painted by hand. The leaves are thick, spineless, and long – growing to a maximum length of 7 inches (20 cm) – and forming a spherical rosette. 

Royal Agave will take 10 years to flower. When it does, you’ll notice a tall flowering spike that can reach a height of 15 feet (4.5 m). Queen Victoria Agave will produce small clusters of creamy white flowers but will die shortly thereafter. 

Unsurprisingly, Agave Victoriae- reginae was bestowed the Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society.  This award-winning succulent is best planted in pots in regions that experience freezing temperatures. 

2. Sempervivum ‘Mark Weller’

Sempervivum ‘Mark Weller’ is a charming succulent that can only grow to a maximum height of 3 inches (7.62 cm) and the leaves form a tight rosette that can spread as far out as 6 inches (15.24 cm).

Mark Weller’s most distinguishing feature is its leaves that start out dark green and are accented by pink-tinged tips. When given regular exposure to direct sunlight, the leaves will change colors and assume different hues – gold, violet, or light pink. 

Common names for Mark Weller are ‘Hens and Chicks’ and ‘Houseleeks’ because the succulent produce offsets that you can use for propagation. The offsets are a ‘parting gift’ because Mark Weller is monocarpic and dies after blooming pink-orange flowers in the late spring or early summer. 

Another wonderful quality of Mark Weller is that it can tolerate temperature drops as low as -30° F (-34.4° C). You can grow Hens and Chicks in a pot and showcase an elegant succulent wonderland in the garden during Christmas. 

3. Aeonium Canariense

Aeonium Canariense is a mesmerizing succulent that attracts impressed sets of eyes as well as butterflies. 

Also known as ‘Canary Island Aeonium’, ‘Giant Velvet Rose’, and ‘Mint Saucer’, its flat, thick, and paddle-shaped leaves have a velvet-like texture. Canary Island Aeonium’s leaves start out as emerald green but when exposed to full sun for 6 hours every day, the leaves will change color to reddish-pink. 

It takes a long time for Giant Velvet Rose to bloom. But when it finally does, Mint Saucer will produce small, yellow-colored, and star-shaped flowers that sit atop a 3-foot (90 cm) long stem. 

As a monocarpic succulent, Aeonium canariense will die after blooming. Fortunately, the succulent will leave you with offsets that you can use to propagate your next collection of Aeonium. 

Giant Velvet Rose isn’t a cold-hardy succulent and is best planted in a pot if your region gets colder than 20° F (-6.7° C).

4. Echeveria ‘Neon Breakers’

Echeveria ‘Neon Breakers’ is a winsome succulent that only grows to a height of 3 inches (7.6 cm) but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up in color. 

The frilly leaves of this variety of Echeveria start out as having a bluish color with pink margins and tips. As it matures and gets more full sun exposure, the leaves assume a royal purple color. 

Another name for Echeveria neon breakers is Hens and Chicks because it produces offsets. Gently pull out the offsets that grow near the base of the plant. Choose the larger-sized offsets to assure you of successful propagation. 

From late summer to early spring, Hens and Chicks will produce alluring flowers that start out with a light pink color. As the plant matures, the flowers turn into darker shades of pink. 

Echeverias are known to be highly tolerant of drought but not of frost. If the mercury drops below 30° F (-1.1° C), it would be best to grow neon breakers in a terracotta pot and use it to adorn your indoors. 

5. Graptosedum ‘Alpenglow’

Graptosedum ‘Alpenglow’ is a majestic succulent that’s sought after for its thick, fleshy, and banana-shaped leaves that start out as green and turn into different shades of pink as it matures. 

Another name for Alpenglow is ‘Twilight’ because its tight, compact, and pink-hued rosettes remind many people of a beautiful sunset. In the summertime, Twilight blooms small, yellow-colored, and star-shaped flowers. 

Alpenglow isn’t a big succulent and that makes it ideal to grow in pots. This hybrid of Graptopetalum and Sedum will only reach a maximum height of 8 inches (20 cm) and spread out to 12 inches (30.5 cm). 

Twilight is also not a cold-hardy succulent. Plant Alpenglow in a pot and transfer it indoors when temperatures in your area fall below  30° F (-1.1° C).

Conclusion

While succulents can be planted directly in the ground, there are a good number of reasons to grow them in pots. 

For types of succulents that aren’t tolerant of frost – and there are quite many – growing them in pots will make it easier for you to move your beloved plants indoors when temperatures drop below freezing. 

Similar to succulents, you can buy pots in different colors, shapes, sizes, and textures. Potted succulents will look great in a rock garden and container garden.

Last Updated on December 20, 2022 by Sofia Lara

The post Best Succulents For Pots appeared first on About Succulents.

Another quality that makes succulents a wonderful choice for your landscape or home is that they are easy to grow and care for. You don’t have to have a green thumb to be successful at growing these highly-durable plants because they don’t need much maintenance. 

The Number One Rule in growing succulents is:

Everyday sunshine and water only when the soil is 100% dry. 

Some varieties of succulents can pull out a special surprise for you. If you expose them to the rays of the full hot sun, their colors can change! 

Best Succulents For Full Hot Sun

All plant life needs the nurturing rays of the sun. Like other plants, succulents use the sun’s rays to produce food. 

There are also types of succulents that achieve their full spectrum of colors when given regular sun exposure – assuming more intense hues. In some species, the leaves change color when exposed directly to the sun’s rays. 

One thing to remember when giving your wonderful succulents sunlight is to avoid the afternoon sun which can be too intense that its leaves get burned. As durable as these plants are, they’ll thrive when receiving their daily dose of morning sunshine for up to 6 hours.

If your garden has areas that get bright sunlight every day, you might want to grow some of the succulents in our list that do better when under the rays of the full hot sun. 

1. Graptopetalum Paraguayense

Graptopetalum paraguayense is a charming succulent that only grows to a height of 1 foot (30 cm) but its elegant, flat, and plump leaves form tight, 4-inch (10 cm) rosettes and the plant can spread out as far as 3 feet (90 cm). 

Graptopetalum paraguayense’s striking opalescence leaves are the main attraction for horticulturists and plant hobbyists alike. These leaves start out as pale, and grayish-white which gives the succulent its common name, ‘Ghost Plant’. 

However, when directly exposed to the bright sun, the leaves’ colors change to pinkish-yellow. In the springtime, you’ll be gifted by Ghost Plant with adorable, star-shaped, and yellow-colored flowers.  

2. Echeveria Agavoides ‘Ebony’

If your garden basks abundantly with sunshine, plant Echeveria agavoides ‘ebony’ in your rock or Mediterranean-themed garden. Watch the red margins on its tips assume a dark chocolate to purple color when exposed to direct sunlight. 

Echeveria agavoides ‘ebony’ is a captivating succulent that’s beloved for its fleshy, grayish-green colored, spear-shaped leaves that are accented with bright-red margins at the tips. 

Another interesting quality of Ebony is that it can withstand frosty weather conditions. In fact, Ebony will help you usher in the winter months with reddish-pink flowers that have yellow tips. 

3. Agave Parryi Truncata

Agave parryi truncata is the ideal succulent to plant in your garden if there are areas that receive bright sun and need more color, texture, and the all-important ‘wow’ factor. 

Its common name ‘Artichoke Agave’ is an obvious nod to the popular vegetable and its close appearance is due to its flat, wide, and thick leaves that form tight rosettes. The silvery-blue colored leaves of Artichoke Agave are margined with teeth-like formations that have a reddish-brown hue. 

Agave is topped by a flowering spike that reaches a height of 15 feet (5 m) and will blossom with endearing clusters of small, yellow-colored flowers that have an orange bud. 

Artichoke Agave will take a long time to produce flowers and ironically, will die a short time after. Fortunately, it will leave you with offsets that you can use to propagate the species.

4. Kalanchoe Luciae

If you want to impress your guests and onlookers, grow Kalanchoe Luciae in your outdoor garden. This magnificent succulent is identifiable by its robust, flat, and clamshell-shaped, green-colored leaves with red tips that form a mesmerizing rosette. 

Also known by multiple common names such as ‘Paddle Plant’, ‘Desert Cabbage’, ‘Flapjacks’, and ‘Red Pancakes’, this species of Kalanchoe that received the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society, grows its deep red tips when exposed to full hot sun. 

Wait for late winter or early spring and be greeted by clusters of small, yellow-colored flowers with a tubular shape. Paddle Plant can reach a height of 2 feet (60 cm) and spread as far as 3 feet (90 cm). 

5. Crassula Capitella ‘Campfire’

Are you looking for a type of succulent that can be used as ground cover or border for your flower bed? Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ might fit what you have in mind. 

Campfire is an eye-catching, low-growing, and spreading succulent that’s characterized by its densely compact, propeller-like leaves that start out with green colors but turn bright red when directly exposed to sunlight. 

In the summertime, your garden will light up even more when Campfire produces clusters of small, white to cream-colored, and star-shaped flowers. Other names for Campfire include Crassula ‘Flame’ and Crassula ‘Blaze’ and it can grow to a height of 6 inches (15 cm) and spread out to 2 feet (90 cm).

6. Sempervivum Arachnoideum

Its scientific name alone gives you an idea of what Sempervivum arachnoideum looks like and why it appeals to so many horticulturists and succulent hobbyists. 

The emerald green leaves of Sempervivum arachnoideum form rosettes that spread out to a foot (30 cm). The thick, fleshy leaves are accented by white, hairy textures on their tips that look like cobwebs.

In summer, you’ll notice a thick flowering stalk grow out of Sempervivum from where small, star-shaped, and pink-colored flowers bloom. Sempervivum arachnoideum is a monocarpic succulent which means it will die after producing the flowers. 

Not to worry as some of its common names are ‘Cobweb Hens and Chicks’ and ‘Cobweb Houseleek’ which are because Sempervivum arachnoides grows offsets that can be used to propagate the species. 

A recipient of the distinguished Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society, Cobweb Hens and Chicks grows better when given full sunlight exposure for up to 6 hours every day.

7. Aeonium ‘Kiwi’

‘Graceful’, ‘stylish’, and ‘elegant’ are just a few of the words used to describe picturesque Aeonium ‘Kiwi’ which are easily recognizable by experienced succulent growers by its spoon-shaped, fleshy, and light greenish-yellow cream-colored leaves.

When exposed to full hot sun, the leaves develop red-tinged tips that make an eye-catching contrast to its colors that appear to cascade to different light shades of green. 

Also known as Aeonium decorum ‘Kiwi’, Aeonium haworthii ‘Tricolor’, and Aeonium haworthii ‘Dreamcolor’, this succulent received the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticulture Society. Kiwi is popularly grown in rock gardens and Mediterranean-style gardens. 

Conclusion

One of the most relaxing things to do at home is to get an ice-cold drink, sit in your backyard, and gaze at the lovely plants that grace a bright and sunny garden. 

Succulent plants that grow well under the full hot sun are amazing additions because they make your garden unique and special. You don’t have to worry about your succulent getting enough sunlight and you only have to water the soil whenever it’s gone dry. 

Watering the soil can be a relaxing activity to do on a bright, hot, and sunny day!

Last Updated on December 20, 2022 by Sofia Lara

The post Best Succulents For Full Hot Sun appeared first on About Succulents.

Among the popular choices for plants are succulents for a number of reasons. Succulent plants are beautifully unique and are available in various colors, sizes, shapes, and textures. Likewise, succulents are durable and many species are tolerant of drought and frost conditions. 

In fact, succulent plants grow better when given little water. The rule in watering succulents is to drench their soil only when it has gone completely dry. Otherwise, its roots will rot. 

Sunlight is another story. 

Best Outdoor Succulents For Low-Light

Succulents need sunlight to produce food and to attain their full colors. When it comes to lighting, the rule is to make sure that succulents receive 4 to 6 hours of sunlight every day.

However, not all areas in the garden receive enough sunlight. Some gardens have mostly sections that are covered by shade or aren’t situated in a location that brings in the sun’s rays. 

If we just described your garden, here’s a list of the best low-light succulents that you can successfully grow in your outdoor garden.

1. Rhipsalis Baccifera

Rhipsalis baccifera is a trailing succulent that’s identified by its slender, pencil-shaped, and green-colored stems. Also known as ‘Mistletoe Cactus’, this succulent is popularly grown in hanging baskets where its stems can freely fall off the edges and create a beautiful illusion of a cascading green waterfall. 

In the spring or summertime, Mistletoe Cactus will bloom delicate flowers that will range in color from cream white to pink and produce berry-like fruits. Rhipsalis baccifera grows best when given indirect light. 

2. Haworthia Concolor

Haworthia concolor or Concolor Zebra Plant is beloved for its fascinating thick, lime green-colored leaves that have a pointed shape and are accented by white dots also known as ‘tubercules’. 

Concolor Zebra Plant only grows to a height of 6 inches (15 cm) and is a welcome addition to a rock garden or as an ornament in your outdoor patio. In the months of Fall and Spring, you can expect to see Haworthia concolor bloom with charming white flowers. 

In addition to its flowers, Haworthia concolor will give you the gift of offsets that sprout from the base of the plant. Gently pull out the offsets and allow them to harden before you replant and add to your collection of Concolor Zebra Plants.

3. Crassula ‘Tom Thumb’

Crassula ‘Tom Thumb’ got its name because it’s a small succulent that doesn’t grow taller than 6 inches (15.24 cm). Horticulturists love Tom Thumb for its small, bright green-colored leaves that have a triangular shape and grow on top of one another as it matures. 

Another name for Tom Thumb is ‘Klein Duimpje’ and is also popular with plant hobbyists because it’s a low-maintenance succulent. Similar to other species, it only needs to receive water when the soil is dry. 

If your garden has low-light conditions, Tom Thumb will do just fine. What’s important is to make sure the succulent is situated in an area in the garden that gets 6 hours of partial sunlight. 

Grow it in a terracotta or unglazed ceramic pot so you can move Crassula indoors if the weather gets frosty. 

4. Ceropegia Woodii Variegata

Ceropegia woodii variegata is a fast-growing succulent that’s desired by landscape artists for its trailing green-colored, heart-shaped leaves which are detailed by silver markings. The leaves can trail as far down as 12 inches (30.48 cm).

Sometimes you might come across varieties of Ceropegia woodii variegata that have pink and grey-colored leaves. Among its common names are ‘String of Hearts’, ‘Rosary Plant’, and ‘Chain of Hearts’. 

String of Hearts is a very durable succulent plant that can survive drought and humid conditions. It prefers exposure to partial sunlight because its leaves can get burned under the full sun’s rays.

5. Crassula Arborescens Undulatifolia

Crassula arborescens undulatifolia or ‘Ripple Jade’ is a compact shrub that can grow to a height of 3 feet (1 m). Its wavy leaves with blue-green color and red-tinged edges give Ripple Jade a peculiar appearance that attracts and delights onlookers.

In the springtime, Crassula arborescens undulatifolia will greet you with small clusters of pink-colored and star-shaped flowers. Against the backdrop of its elegant leaves, Ripple Jade can be the standout feature of your rock garden or water display. 

Don’t worry if your garden scarcely receives sunshine. You can plant Ripple Jade in an area that gets up to 6 hours of partial morning sunlight and it will grow properly. 

6. Kalanchoe Marnieriana

Kalanchoe marnieriana is a succulent that’s made to look magnificent by its paddle-shaped, blue-green-colored leaves with red-tinted margins. The leaves are plump, fleshy, and grow opposite of one another. 

If you think Kalanchoe marnieriana is beautiful now, wait until wintertime when flower-bearing stalks grow out of its center. The flowers are small, bell-shaped, grow in clusters, and range in color from pink to red. 

You can still help Kalanchoe marnieriana achieve its red-tinted margins under low-light conditions as long as it gets at least 6 hours of partial sun. This succulent which is native to Madagascar is an excellent addition to a Mediterranean-themed outdoor garden.

7. Agave Attenuata

Agave Attenuata gets its nickname ‘Agave Fox Tail’ from its flat, spineless, and pale-green colored leaves that can spread out to 4 feet (121.92 cm) wide. 

The leaves of Agave Fox Tail form a flexible rosette that grows out of a thick, wooden stem. Agave attenuata is a good-sized succulent that can grow up to 10 feet (300 cm) and is commonly used by landscape artists as a garden border or as accents to a patio. 

Even if grown under low-light conditions, Agave attenuata can still produce hundreds of small, cream-colored, and bell-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters during the late fall, winter, or spring months. These are among the most beautiful flowers that come out of succulent plants.

Conclusion

One of the most relaxing places in your home is the outdoors. People get into landscaping or take up horticulture as a hobby because they want to turn their gardens into works of art that impress guests and provide solace for the family. 

Your creativity will only be limited by your imagination because there are hundreds of succulent plants to choose from when it comes to adorning your outdoor garden. 

It won’t matter if your garden doesn’t welcome sunshine because there are many varieties of succulents that will grow and thrive even under low-light conditions.

Last Updated on December 20, 2022 by Sofia Lara

The post Best Outdoor Succulents For Low-Light appeared first on About Succulents.

Because of their natural ability to store water in their stems and leaves, succulents can go without water for weeks. However, sunlight is another matter. 

Why Succulents Need Sunlight

We all know that plants need sunlight to produce food and succulents are no exception. 

In addition to producing food, succulents need sunlight to help them achieve their full spectrum of colors. 

Sunlight won’t be a problem if you grow your succulents in an outdoor garden. However, if you decide to have succulents as your houseplants, you have to be sure that they’re located in areas that can receive enough sunlight. 

How much sunlight is enough?

Generally, succulents need up to 6 hours of sunlight every day. Some types of succulents require full or direct sunlight but for the majority, partial exposure will do just fine. 

Thus, when growing succulents indoors, you must situate the succulent in an area that gets 6 hours of sunlight on a daily basis.

7 Best Indoor Succulents For Low-Light

Unfortunately, not every home has a window that brings in a healthy amount of the sun’s rays. 

If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, a south-facing window can get you consistent sunlight throughout the day. East-facing windows can welcome the morning sun while windows that face the west can bring in the late afternoon sunlight. 

Now, if your windows are facing north, you’ll have a problem. North-facing windows in the Northern Hemisphere don’t receive sunlight. 

Of course, you can always place your succulents under an LED Grow Light but there’s another more convenient option: Grow succulents that can successfully grow under low-light conditions. 

To help you out, we’ve prepared this list of the 7 best succulents that you can grow indoors under low-light conditions.

1. Sansevieria trifasciata

If you’re growing indoor succulents for the first time, start out your hobby with Sanseveria trifasciata. 

Also known as Snake Plant because of its long, flat, green-colored leaves that come with different markings and curl and twist as if writhing like its reptilian namesake, Sanseveria trifasciata is a low-maintenance succulent. 

It will do just fine without water for a month and only needs exposure to partial sun to survive. However, to help Snake Plant attain its full colors, it would be best to bring the succulent out in the garden or the patio to get a few hours of direct sunlight every few days. 

2. Aristaloe Aristata

Aristaloe aristata best exemplifies the saying ‘big things come in small packages’. Native to South Africa, ‘Lace Aloe’ is a small, low-growing succulent plant that won’t grow more than 18 inches (45 cm) in height but has a reputation for tolerating long periods of drought. 

Lace aloe is distinguished by its dark-colored and triangular-shaped leaves that are covered in white spikes and hair-like structures called cilia. In the summertime, Lace aloe will bloom peach-colored flowers that usually attract bees in the garden.

As an indoor plant, Aristaloe aristata can feel at home nestled beside a window that brings in partial light for up to 6 hours per day. 

3. Echeveria ‘Lola’

You can’t go wrong with the Echeveria genus because these types of succulents are resilient, require little maintenance, and are fun and easy to grow and care for. 

Thankfully, there are many varieties of Echeverias to choose from and one of the best is Echeveria ‘Lola’ because it does better under low-light conditions. Even as outdoor garden plants, it’s recommended that Lola is exposed only to partial sunlight. 

Echeveria ‘Lola’ only grows to a maximum height of 6 inches (15 cm) and is a wonderful addition to your living room, kitchen, or dining room. Its small, plump, bluish-green leaves form a compact rosette that looks charming and elegant. 

Watch out for small, bell-shaped flowers in the spring or summertime. The flowers might come out with yellow or orange-colored petals. Another name for Echeveria ‘Lola’ is ‘Hens and Chicks’ because it produces offsets or pups that you can use to propagate more of the species. 

4. Ceropegia woodii variegata

Finding a perfect succulent for your home might be a tall order but if ever there was a variety that was close it might be Ceropegia woodii variegata and for a few good reasons. 

Let’s start with its alluring and captivating heart-shaped leaves that might appear as cream, green, or pink with purple-colored stems. The surface of the leaves is marked with lovely speckles that give them definition. 

The leaves can trail as far as 3 feet (90 cm) which makes the aptly named ‘String of Hearts’ or ‘Rosary Plant’ a wonderful addition to your living room, kitchen, or patio. 

When grown indoors and with low-light conditions, Ceropegia woodii variegata can still bloom small, trumpet-shaped, and brownish-pink flowers in the late summer or early fall seasons.

Finally, low-light conditions are actually better for String of Hearts because exposure to partial sun is how you bring out the purplish color of its stems. And compared to other varieties of succulents, 4 hours of partial sunlight is good enough for Rosary Plant. 

5. Senecio Rowleyanus

Another excellent choice as a hanging succulent is Senecio rowleyanus or ‘String of Pearls’. 

The leaves of Senecio rowleyanus will surely elicit smiles from your guests as these look like a cascading waterfall of plump, green-colored grapes. If you have bookshelves, frame them with String of Pearls trailing from colorful hanging baskets all the way to the floor. 

Senecio is one of the most popular genera of succulents because they can adapt to low-light conditions and String of Pearls is no different. 

Find Senecio’s hanging basket in a good location that gets a fairly decent amount of partial light and it will remain happy and healthy. In the springtime, String of Pearls will surprise you with exquisite, cream-colored, and daisy-like flowers that emit a slight scent reminiscent of cinnamon. 

6. Cotyledon Tomentosa

Cotyledon tomentosa is also known as ‘Bear’s Paw’ and the nickname is attributed to its unusual-looking green-colored leaves that are small, plump, curve upward, and has red margins. 

You can expect ‘Bear’s Paw’ to gift you with bell-shaped, orange-colored flowers in the spring.

If you’re planning to have an indoor garden, Cotyledon tomentosa will be an excellent first choice because its fuzzy leaves will give your arrangement contrast and texture. 

‘Bear’s Paw’ will be just fine under low-light conditions. Just make sure it’s situated in a place that welcomes up to 6 hours of partial sunlight every day. 

7. Gymnocalycium mihanovichii

If you get tongue-tied pronouncing its scientific name, just refer to Gymnocalycium mihanovichii by its common name, ‘Moon Cactus’. And what an apt name that is because ‘Moon Cactus’ looks like it is evidence of plant life on another planet. 

The reason for ‘Moon Cactus’ wow-inducing appearance is that this succulent is actually a combination of 2 different types of cacti: the Hylocereus and the Gymnocalycium which is the striking ruby red-colored, ball-shaped bud that’s grafted on top of the plant. 

The globe-like Gymnocalycium doesn’t produce chlorophyll and thus, the flowers that bloom in winter or early spring might show up in a variety of colors such as pink, yellow, orange, and white. 

Conclusion

It doesn’t matter where you live or how your home is designed. You can still grow succulents even if lighting conditions aren’t ideal. That’s the allure of succulent plants and why they’ve become so popular for some time now. 

You can grow them in your office, your school dormitory, in a hotel, or in a restaurant. The succulents we featured in this article will survive and blossom when grown indoors even when lighting conditions are less than ideal.

Last Updated on December 20, 2022 by Sofia Lara

The post Best Indoor Succulents For Low-Light appeared first on About Succulents.

Bees and hummingbirds are attracted to some varieties and will certainly add life to your outdoor garden. Meanwhile, there are types of succulents that can purify the air in your room. 

It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced horticulturist or a beginner. You won’t have many problems growing succulents. 

These are highly durable plants that can survive for weeks without water. In fact, you should only water the soil when you have tested and confirmed 100% that it’s dry. 

However, succulents need their daily dose of sunlight. Without the sun’s rays, the leaves of succulents can etiolate or stretch out as if looking for light. Etiolation can cause the leaves to lose their shape, wither, and die. 

Best Low-Light Succulents

The problem is that not all regions or locations in the world are blessed with abundant sunlight. The same can be said about your homes. There are homes located in the Northern Hemisphere where their windows are facing north and don’t bring in enough sun. 

The good news is that there are succulents that do well under low-light conditions. These types of succulents don’t need to be directly exposed to the sun. They will be just fine with partial sunlight. 

If your home or garden isn’t bright and sunny, don’t worry. We’ve made this list of the 6 best low-light succulents you can grow outdoors or indoors. 

1. Echeveria ‘Black Prince’

With its dark-purplish leaves, Echeveria ‘Black Prince’ is a majestic-looking succulent. When growing Black Prince, you’ll notice the leaves will start out with a green color. As it matures, the succulent’s leaves will assume its dark purple color.

Its fleshy leaves can reach a length of 3 inches (2.54 cm) and form a tight, symmetrical rosette. This is a small succulent that can only reach a height of 6 inches (15 cm). 

Another name for Black Prince is ‘Black Hens and Chicks’ because it produces offsets that can be used to propagate more of the species. 

The genus Echeveria originates in Mexico and is known to be durable and resilient succulents. Black Prince can thrive in low-light conditions in an outdoor garden or inside your home. 

2. Schlumbergera truncata

Schlumbergera truncata can be a mouthful but you can refer to it by its common names ‘Thanksgiving Cactus’ and ‘False Christmas Cactus’. What it doesn’t need is a lot of sunshine. 

In fact, in order for the succulent to bloom its red-colored, tubular-shaped flowers, it would be better to grow it under low-light conditions. 

One of the key steps in helping the succulent plant produce its flowers is to give it 12 to 13 hours of darkness every day. If done properly, your False Christmas Cactus will reward you with flowers sometime in late November or late January.

Thus, Thanksgiving Cactus would make a perfect houseplant. It will grow to a height of 12 inches (30 cm) before sloping out of its pot and giving the illusion of a cascading green and red fountain. 

3. Senecio radicans

Senecio radicans is much beloved because of its charming curved shape, green-colored, and long-trailing leaves that have given the succulent its common names ‘String of Bananas’ and ‘String of Fish Hooks’. 

Some horticulturists refer to Senecio radicans as ‘Curio radicans’ but every plant hobbyist is in agreement that String of Bananas makes for a lovely hanging succulent. 

The leaves can trail downward for as long as 12 inches (30.48 cm). When grown in hanging baskets to adorn an outdoor patio, String of Bananas will provide natural shade to your guests. 

From the months of October and December, String of Fish Hooks will bloom small, white-colored flowers that emit a pleasant scent reminiscent of cinnamon. 

This is a variety of succulent plants that will grow better when exposed to partial or indirect sunlight. It’s not particularly tolerant of direct sun exposure, especially in the early afternoon. To grow Senecio radicans properly, it’s recommended to plant them behind partial shade.

4. Haworthia Concolor

Haworthia concolor with its fleshy, spear-shaped, green-colored leaves that are covered with white spots and outlined with white margins can be described as ‘oddly-beautiful’. 

The succulent plant doesn’t grow more than 6 inches (15.24 cm) in height and is an ideal addition to an outdoor rock garden or as decor in your living room, dining area, and study. 

It also prefers to grow under partial or low-light conditions as its leaves are sensitive to direct sunlight. If your region experiences freezing temperatures and snowy weather, take note that Haworthia Concolor isn’t cold-hardy. Growing the succulent indoors would be your best option.  

5. Sedum Clavatum

Sedum clavatum or Tiscalatengo Gorge Sedum is a low-maintenance succulent that allures and delights onlookers with its plump, compact, stubby, and light green-colored leaves with red tips that form a tight rosette as it matures.

A small succulent, Sedum clavatum can only grow to a height of 4 inches (10.16 cm) and can be a welcome display to a drab shelf case indoors, a conversation starter in the living room, or as a relaxing, stress-busting plant in your office. 

It will not require a lot of sunlight to grow. Sedum clavatum only needs up to 6 hours of indirect or partial sunlight in the garden or near a window inside your home to be happy. 

6. Gasteria Prolifera

Gasteria prolifera is native to Africa and is often found growing in areas with low-light conditions. 

Also known as ‘Ox Tongue Plant’, this succulent is a popular one among horticulturists because of its thick, fleshy, green-colored leaves that feature unique markings on them.

The foliage grows out of a central point in Gasteria prolifera and gives this low-maintenance succulent an interesting look. For sure, you won’t have a hard time finding a suitable location for Ox Tongue Plant in your home.

In the winter or spring months, Gasteria prolifera can produce tubular-shaped flowers with pink and green colors that will look magnificent against any backdrop.

Conclusion

For people who want to get into landscaping or horticulture as a hobby but don’t get much sunshine in their area, growing succulents is the way to go. 

Unlike other species of plant life, succulents can thrive under low-light conditions. What’s important is to make sure your succulents get 4 to 6 hours of exposure to partial or indirect sunlight. 

Low-light succulents can be displayed as accents in your patio or an outdoor rock garden where taller varieties are planted to add height and spreading ones are used as ground cover for concrete walkways. 

Growing low-light succulents indoors will contribute color and texture to minimalist-designed living spaces or simply become interesting conversation pieces for your guests.

Last Updated on December 20, 2022 by Sofia Lara

The post Best Low-Light Succulents appeared first on About Succulents.

And it’s not just their aesthetic appeal that makes succulents a favorite among plant hobbyists. 

Succulents are easy to grow and care for. These are no-fuss varieties of flora that are resilient and durable enough to survive harsh conditions. 

Why Succulents Make Perfect Indoor Plants

If you live a busy lifestyle, you don’t have to worry about watering your succulents. Succulents store water in their stems and leaves which allows them to tolerate long periods of drought and tough desert conditions. 

Unlike other species of plants, succulents should only be given water when their soil has gone completely dry. Giving the soil water while it still retains moisture can lead to root rot and kill your succulent. 

To further protect your indoor succulent from the threat of root rot, plant it in a pot made of unglazed ceramic or terracotta which absorbs moisture quickly from the soil. Make sure the pot has a drain hole to filter out excess water.

For your choice of soil, go for sandy soil or a commercial succulent blend with added materials such as pumice, perlite, coarse sand, and lava rocks to improve drainage.

As an indoor plant, you only have to make sure that your succulents get at least 6 hours of partial to full sunlight every day. If you don’t have a window that brings in enough sunlight, place your succulent under a Grow Light. 

6 Best Indoor Succulents

There are hundreds of varieties of succulents to choose from. You could get lost in a nursery looking for the right species that fit your tastes and sensibilities. We’ve made shopping easier for you by coming up with our list of the best indoor succulents for your home.

1. Graptopetalum Paraguayense

Graptopetalum paraguayense is the perfect succulent for your home if you experience winter as ‘Ghost Plant’ is cold-hardy and can tolerate frosty weather. 

With its fleshy, grayish-white colored, opalescent, ghost-like leaves, having Graptopetalum paraguayense inside your home can be a quick, conversation starter among your guests. 

The succulent is native to Mexico and doesn’t grow more than 1 foot (30.48 cm) in height and occupies only 3 feet (91.44 cm) of space. In the springtime, look out for small, star-shaped, and yellow-colored flowers. 

If your guests are thrilled with Ghost Plant, you’ll be glad to know that it produces offsets or pups that you can use for propagation so you can give them as gifts to your friends.  

2. Lithops

Lithops is native to South Africa and is a genus of succulent plants that resemble stones or pebbles. What looks like rocks are actually 2 fused plump leaves that have a slit between them. 

Come springtime, leaves will sprout forth from this slit, and in the late summer or fall months, expect to see yellow or white-colored flowers that look like daisies.  

There are close to 150 varieties and nearly 40 species of “Living Stones” or “Pebble Plant” to choose from. Each “stone” looks unique with its own set of shapes, markings, and color combinations that range from pink, rust, brown, and grey. 

Lithops would make an interesting conversation piece in your home. Some of your friends might argue that your plants look more like split brains than living stones!

3. Aeonium Arboreum ‘Zwartkop’

One reason why you should have Aeonium arboreum ‘Zwartkop’ in your home is that this succulent won the distinguished Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society.

Zwartkop can grow up to 4 feet (120 cm) in height and spread 2 feet (60 cm) wide. With its mysterious-looking, fleshy, dark-burgundy colored leaves, Zwartkop can add height and contrast to any minimalist living space with predominantly white-colored walls. 

Being an Aeonium, Zwartkop is a monocarpic succulent and will die after producing flowers. However, it might take several years before the plant blooms. Zwartkop’s small, star-shaped, and yellow-colored flowers come out in the springtime.

4. Echeveria runyonii ‘Topsy Turvy’

Add Echeveria runyonii ‘Topsy Turvy’ to your collection of award-winning indoor succulents. 

Topsy Turvy won 2 prestigious awards – the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society and Garden Path magazine’s October 2010 “Plant of the Month”. 

Native to Mexico, this lovely evergreen succulent got its nickname because of its elegant, grayish-powder blue leaves that turn, spiral downward and form delicate rosettes. 

Echeveria runyonii ‘Topsy Turvy’ can reach a height of 12 inches (30.48 cm) indoors. Sometime in the late summer or fall months, Echeveria will produce star-shaped flowers that range in color from yellow to orange.

5. Aloe ‘Doran Black’

Aloe is a genus of succulents that remains a popular choice of horticulturists looking to adorn their homes with plants. ‘Doran Black’ is a variety of Aloe that will undoubtedly create interesting conversation among your house guests. 

Aloe ‘Doran Black’ is characterized by its dark green leaves that are accented with thick, white-colored bumps, and jagged margins. If you position Doran Black in a place that gets a lot of sunlight or under a Grow Light for 6 hours per day, the dark green colored leaves will assume a copper hue.

Doran Black produces offsets near its base. You can pull out the matured offsets for propagation. The great thing about having this peculiar-looking succulent in your home is that it can produce bell-shaped, yellow to orange-colored flowers year-round if properly cared for. 

6. Kalanchoe beharensis ‘Fang’

Kalanchoe beharensis ‘Fang’ goes by multiple interesting nicknames such as ‘Felt Plant’, ‘Felt Bush’, ‘Stalactite Plant Fang’, and ‘Velvet Leaf Kalanchoe’. 

These names are borne out of this variety of Kalanchoe’s odd, weirdly-beautiful appearance that’s identified by its thick, triangular-shaped leaves that are colored bronze on the surface and silver-gray underneath. 

The leaves are covered by fine silver hairs and triangular protrusions that give the impression of the foliage having fangs. 

Another interesting feature of Felt Plant is its floral blooms – clusters of small, urn-shaped flowers that are colored red-orange or yellow-green. Fang will bloom when it matures, often in the late summer or early fall months. 

However, Fang remains sought-after for its gnarly foliage. Similar to ‘Zwartkop’ and ‘Topsy Turvy’, ‘Fang’ is also a recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticulture Society. 

Conclusion

Whether succulents are used indoors to adorn a room in a simple bungalow or as a natural sunshade in a US$50-million home in Monaco, these plants add life to any living space. 

If you live in a part of the world where temperatures can drop below freezing, succulents become the perfect indoor plant to turn your home warm and cozy. 

As long as your succulent plant gets a lot of morning sunshine every day and water whenever its soil has completely dried out, it will remain healthy and happy for several years.

Last Updated on December 20, 2022 by Sofia Lara

The post Best Indoor Succulents appeared first on About Succulents.

These peculiar-looking plants that come in various shapes, colors, and sizes never fail to draw attention in an outdoor garden. Someone who never thought he had a green thumb and decides to become a horticulturist will quickly realize succulents are fun and easy to grow and care for.

It won’t matter if you live in a region that experiences drought or freezing temperatures. There are hundreds of varieties of succulents that you can grow in your outdoor garden. 

2 Things To Know Before You Start Growing Succulents

Succulents are an excellent choice for budding landscapers who reside in a neighborhood where water-wise gardening is encouraged because of inadequate water supply. 

These durable plants store plenty of water in their leaves and stems. Succulents can thrive in poor soil conditions for long periods without water. Landscape artists love adorning outdoor rock gardens with succulents that are grown in pots and on the ground. 

Before you start growing succulents outdoors, here are 2 important things you need to know about these magnificent and highly-durable plants:

1. Sunlight – Unless otherwise noted, succulents need to get at 6 hours of partial to full sunlight every day. Aside from producing their food, a regular dose of sunlight helps succulents achieve their full spectrum of color. Avoid exposing your succulents to the intense rays of the afternoon sun. 

2. Water – Overwatering is the number one cause of succulent death. If the plant’s roots are immersed in moist conditions for a long time, they will rot and expose the succulent to the risk of acquiring a fungal infection. Only water the soil when you’ve confirmed that it’s 100% dry.

You can summarize these 2 guidelines into 1 simple and easy-to-remember rule:

Sunlight every day but water only when the soil has completely dried out.

6 Best Outdoor Succulents

If you’re part of a succulent community, we prepared this list of the best outdoor succulents you can grow in your garden and share with your fellow aficionados.

1. Agave parryi truncata

One look at Agave parryi truncata and you’ll know why it’s also called “Artichoke Agave”. 

You’ll love how Agave’s tightly-formed rosettes that feature thick, fleshy, silver-blue colored leaves add volume, color, and texture to your outdoor garden. Upon close inspection, guests will discover that the leaves have spines and are outlined with reddish-brown colored teeth. 

Artichoke Agave can grow to a height of 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) and cover up to 2 to 3 feet wide (60 to 90 cm) of ground. 

It will take more than 10 years for Artichoke to bloom its thick clusters of yellow flowers with orange-colored buds. As a monocarpic succulent, Agave will die after blooming. 

However, you’ll be given a parting gift of pups or offsets that you can use to propagate more of the species. 

2. Aeonium “Mardi Gras”

With its compact and colorful rosettes that are easily identifiable by their bright yellow to emerald green variegation which spread out to burgundy and pink-tinged leaves, growing Aeonium “Mardi Gras” will make these festive succulents the life and party of your outdoor garden. 

Aeonium Mardi Gras is a monocarpic succulent but it will take several years before a rosette can produce flowers. Thankfully, the rosettes also produce offsets for propagation. 

These are small succulents and don’t grow more than 4-inches (10 cm) tall and 6-inches (15 cm) wide. Thus, Aeonium Mardi Gras is perfect as potted succulents where your imagination can create amazing arrangements in a rock garden.

3. Crassula falcata

Experienced horticulturists  grow Crassula falcata for its flowers that come out in the summer or early fall season. 

The flowers range in color from bright orange-red or fiery red and are the reason why Crassula falcata is commonly known as “Scarlet Paintbrush”. Come closer to these flowers and you’ll detect a slight cinnamon scent. 

Another name for Crassula falcata describes a second unique feature of the succulent. It’s also called the “Propeller Plant” because of its thick, fleshy, lime-green colored leaves that overlap each other. 

Crassula falcata is a perfect choice for adding height to your outdoor garden as it can grow up to 2 feet tall (0.61 m). Once planted in your outdoor garden, expect frequent visits by bees and butterflies.  

4. Kumara Plicatilis

Kumara plicatilis is a tall succulent that can reach a height of 12.8 feet (8 m). Likewise, it is a slow-growing succulent that might take up to 20 years before reaching full maturity. 

The striking feature of Kumara plicatilis is its curved, banana-shaped, blue-grey colored leaves. Perched on top of thick, wooden trunks, the 11-inch (30 cm) leaves spread out and grow opposite each other and this is why Kumara plicatilis is also known as Fan Aloe.

Sometime in the late winter or early spring, Fan aloe will sprout yet another distinctive feature – scarlet-colored flowers with green-yellow-tinged tips. These charming flowers will attract the interest of not just your house guests but also of sugarbirds.

5. Echeveria Imbricata

If you live in a region where temperatures can drop below -6 degrees Celcius (-20 degrees Fahrenheit), Echeveria imbricata would be a good choice for your outdoor garden. 

While Echeveria imbricata can tolerate frosty temperatures, it won’t survive prolonged exposure to cold. Thus, in cold climates, it would be advisable to grow Echeveria in terracotta or unglazed ceramic pots that can be moved indoors. 

This succulent is native to Mexico and is much-sought-after because of its saucer-shaped, symmetrical rosettes composed of robust, blue-green leaves. 

Echeveria imbricata only grows to a maximum height of 8 inches (20 cm) and spreads to 6 inches (15 cm). Landscape artists commonly use container-grown Echeveria imbricata as accents to a rock garden.

6. Graptopetalum Superbum

Graptopetalum superbum’s nickname “Beautiful Graptopetalum” is perfect and fits the succulent to a T. 

One can’t help but be mesmerized by the beautiful succulent’s pink to light lavender colored leaves that are thick, fleshy, and form compact rosettes. The stems of Graptopetalum continually extend but in time will become pendant and cascade resplendently. 

Its spreading nature makes Beautiful Graptopetalum ideal as ground cover or grown in hanging baskets as a wonderful frame for your outdoor patio. 

As if the leaves aren’t enough to add splendor to your outdoor garden, in the springtime, you’ll be greeted with small, yellow-colored, star-shaped flowers with red-tinged tips. 

Conclusion

Although these outdoor succulents are durable, be on the lookout for pests such as mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects that might make your plants their home. These pests love to eat the leaves and drink the sap from succulent plants. By doing so, they expose the succulents to diseases and infections.

Remove dead leaves that have accumulated near the base of the plant. Once in a while, spray your outdoor succulents with a diluted natural pesticide to keep unwanted insects from your garden. 

We only covered 6 of the best succulents to grow outdoors. There are hundreds of varieties to choose from; all are uniquely beautiful, durable, and easy to grow and care for.

Last Updated on December 20, 2022 by Sofia Lara

The post Best Outdoor Succulents appeared first on About Succulents.

Unlike other plant species, succulents don’t require regular attention. As long as your succulent gets its daily dose of the morning sun for 6 hours, you’ll be fine. And when it comes to watering, less is best. 

You only water the soil in between dry periods. During the growing seasons of summer and spring, you might only give your succulent water every seven to 10 days. In the wintertime, soil holds moisture longer and might not require water for an entire month.

Don’t have an outdoor garden? No problem! You can grow succulents indoors as home decor or as ornaments. Hotels grow succulents in small ceramic pots and display these miniature beauties in different locations – including the restrooms.

That’s why the popularity of succulents has been booming over the last few years. They are perfect plants for beginners who want to become horticulturists but have a busy schedule or do a lot of traveling. 

7 Best Succulents For Beginners

You don’t need a green thumb to find success growing succulents. To make it easier for you to start your new hobby, we’ve created this list of the 7 best succulents for beginners. 

Now, let’s get growing!

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is on top of our list not because it starts with the letter “A”. The succulent plant which is native to Africa, the Middle East, and Madagascar is commonly found in many households because it has been studied to have medicinal benefits. 

Also known as “Medicinal Aloe”, this popular succulent is commonly used to treat wounds and sunburn. Aloe vera is often part of an anti-aging regimen because the gel-type substance from its leaves is rich in antioxidants and improves skin hydration.

Aloe vera will do well under partial or direct sun exposure. Keep “Flower of the Desert” away from the afternoon sun as its harsh rays can burn the precious leaves.

Because Aloe vera originates in regions with dry and arid conditions, it can survive long periods without water. Only water the soil when it has dried out completely. 

If you live in a region where temperatures fall below -6.7° C (20° F), it would be best to grow Aloe vera indoors because this isn’t a cold-hardy succulent. As a houseplant, keep Aloe vera in the kitchen or dining area and position its pot near a window that gets 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day.

2. Crassula Ovata

If you’re not familiar with Crassula ovata, perhaps its aliases “Money Tree” and “Jade Plant” will ring a bell.

Crassula ovata is easily identified by its dark, emerald-green leaves that associate the succulent plant with money. People who grow Jade Plant believe it will bring in good fortune in their homes or businesses. 

Whether you’re superstitious or not, no one can argue that Crassula ovata is a beautiful succulent. Sometime during winter and spring, expect to be greeted by charming, small, pink-colored flowers that emit a subtle sweet scent. 

As an outdoor plant, Money Tree is a welcome addition to a water display or a rock garden. The best location is in an area that gets up to 6 hours of direct morning sunlight. 

If you prefer to grow Jade Plant indoors and believe the stories, position the succulent near the entrance to “welcome good fortune”. More importantly, make sure Crassula ovata is situated near a window that gets up to 6 hours of partial or direct sunlight. 

Since Crassula ovata thrives under direct sunlight, a good option would be to place it under a Grow Light.

Water the soil sparingly. Similar to other succulents, only water in between dry periods. 

3. Haworthia Fasciata

Haworthia fasciata checks all the boxes for a succulent plant that’s easy to grow and care for. “Zebra Plant”, as this succulent is more popularly known, is characterized by its thick, dark-green leaves that are accented by white stripes. 

The thick leaves of Haworthia fasciata allow it to store water and survive extended periods of drought. You can go on a 2-week vacation and not worry if your Zebra Plant received water. 

When exposed to direct sunlight for 6 hours every day, Zebra Plant’s tips develop an attractive red color. 

Haworthia fasciata can tolerate dry conditions but not frost. If the temperature in your area drops below -1.1° C (30° F), move Zebra Plant indoors. Keep in mind that when grown as a houseplant, Haworthia fasciata might not bloom in the summertime. Its flowers are small, pink, and have a tubular shape. 

4. Burro’s Tail ( Sedum Morganianum )

Burro’s Tail got its name from its long, trailing, green-colored leaves that are fleshy and shaped like a teardrop. Its scientific name is Sedum morganianum and many succulent hobbyists grow it in hanging baskets to showcase the trailing leaves that give the illusion of a green waterfall.

Sedum morganianum is a good starting point for beginners. Just make sure you locate Burro’s Tail in an area that gets 6 hours of partial to full sunlight and to water the soil only when it has gone stone-dry. 

What beginners should remember is that Burro’s Tail’s lovely long leaves are very delicate and can break off easily when improperly handled. 

5. Echeveria Elegans

Echeverias are a species of succulents that originate from Mexico and are known to be tolerant to drought conditions. According to Mexican folklore, Echeveria elegans or “Mexican Snowball” has the power to drive away evil spirits from homes. 

What’s certainly true is that plant lovers are attracted to Mexican Snowball’s flowers that bloom in the late winter to early summer months. The flowers vary in color from pink to red and have yellow tips. 

Echeveria elegans is a no-fuss succulent. You only need to remember 2 things. Make sure Mexican Snowball receives up to 6 hours of direct or partial morning sunlight and water sparingly. Check the soil’s level of dryness before giving it water. 

6. Sanseveria Trifasciata

Do you live in a region that has winter? Sanseveria trifasciata is the perfect succulent for you to start off your hobby as a succulent grower. Commonly known as “Snake Plant” because of its long, twisting leaves that have yellow margins, it can survive frosty weather. 

Aside from its mesmerizing appearance, Snake Plant also has another reported benefit. A study conducted by NASA showed that having this succulent inside your home can improve the quality of oxygen by removing toxic particles from the air.

Snake Plant grows better when exposed to partial sunlight for up to 6 hours every day. Likewise, this frost-tolerant succulent can endure drought conditions. For best results, water the soil every seven to 10 days or whenever the soil has gone dry.

7. Sempervivum Royanum

Similar to echeverias, sempervivums are a species of succulents that grow offsets or pups you can use for propagation. Having offsets is a wonderful gift because Sempervivum royanum is monocarpic and dies shortly after producing reddish-purple and star-shaped flowers.

Succulent plants that grow offsets are commonly referred to as “Hens and Chicks” or “Houseleeks”. 

Hens and Chicks is an excellent succulent for beginners who reside in regions where the temperature can drop below -29° C (-20° F). It will do just fine even when blanketed by thick snow. 

Morning or late afternoon sun is best for Sempervivum royanum. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of partial or direct sunlight. Don’t water the soil when there’s still moisture. 

Conclusion

If you’re looking to start a hobby growing things, you can’t go wrong with succulents. These plants are durable, low maintenance, and can last for years. The most common problem for beginners is overwatering their succulent plants.

When you water the soil frequently, the roots of the succulent are kept in a moist environment for a long time. The cells of the roots can rupture and expose the plant to fungal contamination. 

The leaves and stems of the succulent store plenty of water. It’s a feature that allows these plants to survive extended periods of drought in the desert. 

Just remember the simple rule for growing succulents: Sunlight every day but water sparingly. 

Last Updated on December 19, 2022 by Sofia Lara

The post Best Succulents For Beginners appeared first on About Succulents.