Succulents were once desert plants but now are a household name. In what way do these plants differ from the rest of the houseplant varieties? There are a number of reasons why succulents are so popular. Plants such as succulents are versatile, easy to care for, and durable. You can find them in many shapes and styles, from green to rainbow-colored. Succulent Overview The Latin word sucus means drink, juice, and sap. Plants that are succulent are drought-resistant because their leaves and stems retain large amounts of water. Because gloves for working with cactus are versatile and resistant to neglect, these desert residents make great houseplants, although some varieties do better indoors than others. Among the tips to consider when selecting your succulents are the size, style, color, care requirements, and natural climate. From Blossfeldia liliputana, which grows under an inch tall, to blue yucca, which grows 12 feet high. Moreover, they have different colorations and shapes. Most succulents originate in arid desert climates, but there are some species that are native to tropical regions, such as Macho mocha mangave and octopus agave. Certain varieties of succulents require lots of natural light, but some houses don't have enough. Generally, green succulents do well indoors rather than colorful ones, depending on how much light is available. Their natural habitat has a direct relationship with their needs, so do your best to replicate this. Common Types of Succulents Approximately 60 plant families belong to the category of succulents. The most popular plants come from Sempervivum, Cactaceae (cacti), Sedum and Haworthia. We've included examples and photos of popular types of succulents from each family. Explore some of the details that set these plant families apart to determine which one may be best for you. Cactaceae (cacti) With their protective prickly spines, cacti are among the most recognizable types of succulents. Desert adapted humans can withstand extreme temperatures and survive with little water. Haworthia The Haworthia plant is a small succulent species native to southern Africa. Sun and dry seasons are part of their daily lives. While small in size, the Haworthia family comprises a large portion of the succulent family. Sedum The smallest sedum succulents reach only a few inches in height while the largest grow up to three feet tall. Crassulaceae plants such as the jade plant of which Sedum is a member form the family of the Crassulaceae. Despite being hardy and tolerant of the sun, they require little water. Sempervivum You can identify Sempervivum succulents by their rosette-shaped leaves. how to plant cactus have flowers, and some have a variety of colors. Succulents also resist frost, making this plant whose name means always alive very fitting. Succulent Care Tips Contrary to their tough guy reputation, succulents are still creatures that need love and attention. Often, at the bottom of a plant, there will be dead leaves. Remove these to keep your plant happy. Follow these guidelines to prevent killing one of the most hardy plants. The development of succulents requires ample sunlight, and they need at least 36 hours of sunlight per day. You can also place it in a window or space that receives plenty of sunlight, such as a south- or east-facing window. Sunburning a succulent is extremely unlikely, but keep an eye out for any unusual scorch marks. The leaves of succulents that do not receive enough light may be stretched outward to absorb as much light as possible. As a result of their adaptation to desert climates, succulents do not require a lot of water. Before watering them again, it's recommended to let the soil dry completely first. If you don't let the roots dry in between waterings, the roots may rot and kill the plant. It is possible that their soil will dry up much faster in a very hot environment and if they have an effective drainage system, they may need to be watered more often about every 23 weeks. As the weather gets colder, you will have to water them less frequently. Due to their accustomed extreme climates, succulents can be grown in temperatures as high as 4095 F. However, some of the more delicate varieties should be kept in a more conservative temperature range. Above, we discussed how the temperature of the succulent should be related to how much water it receives. Most succulents are not toxic. Succulents like Opuntia ficus-indica (prickly pear) and Aloe vera are frequently used in delicious dishes. You should watch out for succulent varieties, mostly cacti, which have spines that could puncture the skin. Although most succulents are not toxic to humans or pets, there are some varieties you may wish to avoid if you have little ones or furry friends around. Succubus should be planted in soil or a container that allows adequate drainage. Add organic matter such as peat moss, as well as large pebbles and rocks to the cacti soil as a base for soil drainage. Whether your plant needs to be repotted is dependent on the size of your plant and whether it needs to be moved indoors during the winter. Check out our guide on how to properly repot a plant if your plant has outgrown its pot. gloves for working with cactus|how to plant cactus