10 Things Nobody Tells You About Succulents

While succulents have gained widespread popularity, they still hold a few surprises. Whether you cultivate them indoors or outdoors, succulents can be incredibly rewarding once you understand their unique characteristics. For instance, did you know that succulents have evolved to store water in their leaves, stems, and roots? This adaptation allows them to thrive in arid environments where other plants would perish. Here’s a closer look at 10 lesser-known facts about succulents:

“Gray” succulents can be horrible houseplants.

When it comes to growing succulents indoors, not all species are created equal. In fact, some thrive in indoor conditions better than others. A key indicator of a succulent’s ability to survive indoors is the color of its leaves. The greener the leaves, the more likely the plant is to do well inside. This means you should prioritize finding succulents with bright green leaves over those with gray, blue, or purple hues.

For inspiration and expert tips on growing succulents indoors, check out Flora Grubb Gardens’ informative article, ‘9 Secrets to Growing Succulent Plants Indoors.’

Instagram is the best place to hunt for rare succulents.

While browsing through plant shops, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut seeing the same familiar succulent varieties over and over again. But what if you’re looking for something truly unique? The solution lies in exploring tags like #variegatedsucculents, #raresucculents, and #succulentsofinstagram, which often lead to boutique growers offering one-of-a-kind specimens. For inspiration on finding these hidden gems, check out 10 Houseplant Lovers to Follow on Instagram.

Container succulents need more care than you think.

In the lush garden of a circa-1929 house designed by Reginald Davis Johnson, a vintage pot overflows with succulent greenery. This charming scene is just one aspect of the remodelled estate in Santa Barbara, California, orchestrated by Brooklyn-based architect Roberto Sosa. The property’s unique charm can be explored further at Landscape Revival: A Secluded, Historic 1920s Estate in Santa Barbara (Rose Garden Included).

Roe Ann White and Bill Dewey capture this captivating moment through their photography. When growing succulents in containers, it is crucial to avoid overwatering and excessive sun exposure. Despite their reputation for being hardy and low-maintenance, these plants still require special care when confined within a small ecosystem. To ensure the health of your succulent collection, refer to Succulents: A Field Guide to Planting, Care & Design for expert tips.

It’s not your fault you don’t know the species of a succulent.

While succulent identification can be a challenge, it’s essential to understand that ‘succulent’ is not a specific name for a family of plants. Instead, it’s a description shared by thousands of plant species within various groups. These plants have evolved to store their own water supply, resulting in distinct physical characteristics like thick stems, roots, and leaves. This unique adaptation allows them to appear pillowy and resilient.

For further insight into the world of succulents, explore our comprehensive series, Succulents Explained.

Burro’s tail succulents are as fragile as blown glass.

To ensure the health and longevity of your Burro’s tail (Sedum morganianum), it’s essential to strike a balance between water and neglect. While overwatering can lead to rot, under-watering will not produce the desired results. The key is to provide moderate moisture levels, coupled with well-drained soil. Additionally, be gentle when handling this plant, as its delicate leaves are prone to falling off easily.

In terms of environmental conditions, Burro’s tail thrives in partial sun and cooler temperatures. With these simple guidelines, you’ll find it a relatively low-maintenance yet rewarding addition to your garden.

Any three potted succulents will look good together.

The art of arrangement is all about creating visual appeal, and succulent enthusiasts know that trios are a winning combination. Unlike the symmetry of paired objects or repetitive patterns, a trio of planters demands attention and encourages observation. The varying heights, diameters, and patterns create a visually interesting display that can be further enhanced by considering each planter individually.

Plant swaps can save you hundreds of dollars.

Imagine a scenario where you can acquire new succulents without breaking the bank or sacrificing your own green thumb. A cutting, a small portion of a mature succulent plant, can be taken from one of your existing plants and traded for another variety at no cost. This concept is made possible through plant swaps, a phenomenon that’s gained popularity in recent years.

In fact, Sarah Scott, a horticulturalist from Victoria, Canada, has been instrumental in organizing such events under her brand Botanic Creative (@botaniccreative. ca). The process of acquiring new plants while sharing knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow enthusiasts is not only cost-effective but also fosters a sense of community among plant lovers. For more information on this unique approach to plant acquisition, check out [The New Sharing Economy, Plant Swap Edition].

A pencil cactus is the first succulent you need to get.

Euphorbia tirucalli, or the pencil cactus, is a visually striking and low-maintenance addition to any space. Its unique, sculptural shape makes it a standout, while its adaptable nature ensures it thrives in a variety of conditions. To keep this plant happy, provide well-draining soil with a gritty texture and place it on a sunny windowsill. During the summer months, water every two to three weeks, reducing frequency to once a month during the winter to prevent root rot.

With proper care, your pencil cactus will flourish and become a beloved member of your indoor garden.

A string of pearls succulent is the last thing you need in your life.

The String of Pearls succulent’s unique appearance, characterized by small green bubbles along a slender stem, evokes memories of childhood play with plastic pop-apt beads. Its quirkiness is undeniable. According to Annie in her Gardening 101 series, this finicky plant requires careful handling, as excessive movement or rough handling can cause the pearls to drop off. Additionally, it’s sensitive to water levels, whether too much or too little, resulting in similar consequences.

The exposed stem that remains after pearl loss can be particularly jarring. For this reason, Annie advises building up to cultivating String of Pearls, rather than making it your first succulent endeavor. More information on planting, care, and design tips can be found at the provided link.

Succulent wreaths look better on a table than a wall.

Before you write off the succulent wreath as a fleeting trend, consider displaying it on a tabletop instead of hanging it. This simple adjustment can breathe new life into the piece. For more creative ideas, check out DIY: A Succulent Wreath to Display All Year. If you’re looking for expert guidance on growing and caring for your succulents, head over to Succulents: A Field Guide to Planting, Care & Design.

And if you’re concerned about keeping your favorite indoor plants thriving during the winter months, be sure to read 8 Tips to Help Your Favorite Indoor Plants Survive Winter. For a unique tabletop arrangement that won’t break the bank, check out DIY Succulents: Tabletop Arrangement for Under $20. Finally, don’t miss our in-depth guide on Senecio Succulents, perfect for gardening enthusiasts of all levels.