Succulents are AWESOME! Fall in love with these beautiful plants in our detailed guide, covering 57 unique types. Journey from the delightful Bunny Succulent to the sturdy Agave, as we reveal the distinct traits and specific nurturing requirements for each kind. Ideal for both seasoned collectors and newcomers.
These hardy and visually striking succulents add beauty to any houseplant collection. Delight in the varied forms, hues, and textures that have made succulents a top choice for gardeners and decorators.
Macho Mocha
Macho Mocha is a unique succulent known for its robust and resilient nature, thriving in various environments. Its striking appearance, characterized by thick, fleshy leaves and a rich, mocha-colored hue, makes it a favorite among succulent enthusiasts. This plant is ideal for both indoor and outdoor settings, adapting well to different light conditions.
- Drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering.
- Prefers well-drained soil and partial sun exposure.
- Can grow up to 24 inches tall.
Chandelier Plant
The Chandelier Plant, also known as Mother of Thousands, is renowned for its unusual reproduction method. This succulent grows small plantlets along the edges of its leaves, which eventually fall off and root themselves. The plant’s tall, vertical growth and green, scalloped leaves make it a visually appealing choice.
- Easily propagates from fallen plantlets.
- Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Toxic to pets if ingested.
Little Jewel
Little Jewel, a petite and ornamental succulent, is prized for its geometric leaf pattern and vibrant coloration. Its leaves are shaped like little jewels, often displaying a range of colors from green to pink under stress. This plant is perfect for small pots and terrariums.
- Thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Sensitive to overwatering.
- Changes color based on sun exposure and stress.
Ribbon Plant
The Ribbon Plant, known for its long, ribbon-like leaves, is a charming addition to any succulent collection. Its leaves, which can range from green to variegated shades, grow in a cascading manner, making it ideal for hanging baskets. This plant is also appreciated for its air-purifying qualities.
- Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
- Requires well-draining soil.
- Known for its ability to filter indoor air pollutants.
Agave
Agave is a versatile and striking succulent, famous for its large, pointed leaves and rosette shape. These plants are often used in landscaping due to their dramatic appearance and ability to withstand harsh conditions. Some species of Agave can grow quite large, making a significant statement in gardens.
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
- Drought-tolerant once established.
- Some varieties can take years to flower, often only once in their lifetime.
Silver Dollar Plant
The Silver Dollar Plant, with its round, silvery leaves resembling coins, is a unique and eye-catching succulent. Its leaves are often used in floral arrangements and crafts due to their distinctive shape and color. This plant prefers a sunny spot and doesn’t require frequent watering.
- Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Can produce small, purple flowers in the right conditions.
- Ideal for container gardening.
Sea Rocket
Sea Rocket is a coastal succulent known for its ability to thrive in sandy, saline environments. It has small, fleshy leaves that help it conserve water in its harsh native habitat. This plant is often found in coastal dunes and salt marshes.
- Adapted to sandy, well-drained soils.
- Tolerates high salinity.
- Produces small white or pink flowers.
Spiderwort
Spiderwort, not a true succulent but often grouped with them, is known for its grass-like leaves and striking flowers. It is a resilient plant that can adapt to various environments, from indoor pots to outdoor gardens. The flowers, usually purple or blue, open in the morning and close by the afternoon.
- Prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full sun.
- Flowers are typically vibrant and last for one day.
- Can be easily propagated from stem cuttings.
Chinese Jade
Chinese Jade is a delicate-looking succulent with a bushy growth habit and small, rounded leaves. This plant is often grown as a houseplant and is known for its ease of care. It’s perfect for adding a touch of green to indoor spaces.
- Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Requires well-draining soil and infrequent watering.
- Can be easily propagated from leaf cuttings.
Jade Plant
The Jade Plant is a popular succulent, recognized for its thick, woody stems and oval-shaped, glossy green leaves. Often considered a symbol of good luck, it’s a common houseplant in many homes. This plant is very easy to care for, making it great for beginners.
- Can tolerate full sun to partial shade.
- Prefers well-draining soil; susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
- Can live for many years and grow into a small tree-like structure.
Monanthes
Monanthes is a small, charming succulent known for its miniature rosettes and delicate, star-shaped flowers. Native to the Canary Islands, this plant is perfect for rock gardens or small containers. Its tiny leaves can vary in color from green to reddish hues.
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Requires minimal watering and well-draining soil.
- Ideal for terrariums due to its small size.
Stonecrops
Stonecrops, belonging to the genus Sedum, are versatile and hardy succulents known for their diverse forms and colors. They are often used as ground covers or in rock gardens due to their adaptability and ease of growth. These plants typically have thick, fleshy leaves that store water.
- Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.
- Produces small, star-shaped flowers in clusters.
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Cactus, not a true cactus but a succulent, is admired for its striking striped leaves. This small, slow-growing plant is perfect for windowsills or desks, adding a touch of the exotic with minimal care requirements. The white, bumpy stripes contrast beautifully against the dark green leaves.
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Susceptible to overwatering; needs well-draining soil.
- Ideal for beginners due to its low maintenance needs.
String of Hearts
String of Hearts, or Ceropegia woodii, is a trailing succulent vine known for its heart-shaped leaves and delicate, trailing habit. Its leaves feature a beautiful pattern of silver, green, and pink hues. This plant is perfect for hanging baskets or as a shelf plant.
- Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight.
- Requires well-draining soil and moderate watering.
- Can be easily propagated from stem cuttings or tubers.
Ant Plant
Ant Plants are unique succulents that have a symbiotic relationship with ants. They develop swollen bases or tubers where ants can reside, while the plant benefits from the nutrients from ant waste. These plants have small, often inconspicuous leaves and grow best in humid environments.
- Prefers indirect light and high humidity.
- Requires well-draining soil; sensitive to overwatering.
- Ideal for terrariums or greenhouses.
Astridia
Astridia is a lesser-known genus of succulents, prized for its small size and interesting leaf shapes. These plants form low clumps or mounds and are perfect for small pots or as part of a succulent arrangement. They are native to southern Africa and require minimal care.
- Prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Requires well-draining soil and infrequent watering.
- Produces small, yellow or white flowers.
Snake Plant
The Snake Plant, also known as Sansevieria, is a highly popular indoor succulent. It’s known for its upright, sword-like leaves with striking variegated patterns. This plant is not only aesthetically pleasing but also excellent at purifying indoor air.
- Thrives in low to bright indirect light.
- Very drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
- Can tolerate some neglect, making it ideal for busy or novice plant owners.
Lampranthus
Lampranthus is a group of succulents known for their bright, daisy-like flowers and fleshy leaves. These plants are excellent for rock gardens or as ground covers, creating a carpet of color when in bloom. They are native to South Africa and thrive in sunny environments.
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
- Drought-tolerant once established.
- Flowers in various shades, including pink, purple, and yellow.
Astroworthia
Astroworthia is a lesser-known succulent with a striking appearance, featuring long, slender leaves often marked with white spots or stripes. This plant forms a rosette shape and can produce small, bell-shaped flowers. It’s a great choice for containers or small garden spaces.
- Prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Requires well-draining soil and moderate watering.
- Can tolerate mild frost but should be protected from extreme cold.
Lifesaver Plant
The Lifesaver Plant, scientifically known as Huernia, is notable for its unique, star-shaped flowers that resemble a lifesaver ring. This low-growing succulent has fleshy, angular stems and thrives in well-drained soil. It’s a fascinating plant for succulent collectors due to its unusual blooms.
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Susceptible to root rot; water sparingly.
- Flowers emit a mild, often unpleasant scent to attract pollinators.
Juttadinteria
Juttadinteria is a genus of succulents known for their compact, rosette-forming habit. These plants have thick, fleshy leaves that can range in color from green to purple. They are perfect for small spaces or as part of a succulent collection.
- Thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Requires well-drained soil and infrequent watering.
- Can produce small, yellow flowers in the right conditions.
Ox Tongue
Ox Tongue, or Gasteria, is a succulent with thick, tongue-shaped leaves often marked with interesting patterns. This slow-growing plant is ideal for indoor cultivation, thriving in low-light conditions. It’s a great choice for offices or homes with limited sunlight.
- Prefers shade to partial sunlight.
- Needs well-draining soil and moderate watering.
- Can produce unique, tubular flowers on tall spikes.
Plover Eggs
Plover Eggs, known for its egg-like markings on the leaves, is a unique and attractive succulent. This compact plant is ideal for small containers and does well in both indoor and outdoor settings. The leaves are typically green with spots or speckles resembling bird eggs.
- Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Requires well-draining soil and moderate watering.
- Ideal for rock gardens or as a part of a succulent arrangement.
Zulu Giant
Zulu Giant, or Stapelia gigantea, is a striking succulent known for its large, star-shaped flowers that can reach up to 14 inches in diameter. This plant has thick, stem-like leaves and a sprawling growth habit. It’s an excellent conversation piece in any succulent collection.
- Prefers bright, indirect light and well-drained soil.
- Flowers have a distinct, often unpleasant odor to attract pollinators.
- Susceptible to overwatering; water sparingly.
Chinese Dunce Cap
The Chinese Dunce Cap, or Orostachys iwarenge, is a fascinating succulent with conical, pagoda-like rosettes. These plants are known for their unusual shape and beautiful, spiral growth pattern. They produce small, star-shaped flowers and are perfect for rock gardens or container arrangements.
- Prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Requires well-draining, gritty soil.
- Cold hardy and can withstand frost.
Karoo Rose
Karoo Rose, or Lapidaria margaretae, resembles a miniature rose with its layered, plump leaves. This small succulent is a slow-grower, making it perfect for indoor cultivation in small pots. It can bloom with bright yellow, daisy-like flowers under the right conditions.
- Thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Sensitive to overwatering; prefers infrequent watering.
- Ideal for succulent collections and windowsill gardens.
Ice Plant
Ice Plants, known for their shimmering, ice-like leaf appearance, are popular ground covers due to their drought tolerance and vibrant flowers. They belong to the genus Delosperma and are highly valued for their ability to thrive in poor soils and sunny conditions.
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
- Produces bright, daisy-like flowers in various colors.
- Excellent for xeriscaping and rock gardens.
Babies’ Toes
Babies’ Toes, or Fenestraria rhopalophylla, are unique succulents that resemble the toes of a baby. This plant adapts well to indoor environments and is known for its translucent leaf tips that allow light to enter for photosynthesis. It produces yellow or white flowers.
- Thrives in bright light but can tolerate partial shade.
- Requires well-drained soil and careful watering.
- Ideal for windowsills or small containers.
Purslane
Purslane, or Portulaca oleracea, is a fast-growing succulent with small, paddle-shaped leaves. It’s known for its edible qualities and vibrant, multi-colored flowers. Purslane is a great choice for ground cover or hanging baskets due to its trailing habit.
- Prefers full sun and tolerates poor soil conditions.
- Drought-resistant and requires minimal care.
- Leaves and stems are edible and rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
Fairy Elephant’s Feet
Fairy Elephant’s Feet, or Frithia pulchra, is a charming succulent with tiny, bulbous leaves resembling elephant feet. This plant is perfect for small containers and does well in partial shade. It produces lovely, pinkish-purple flowers.
- Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Requires well-draining soil and moderate watering.
- Ideal for miniature gardens and fairy garden setups.
Deltoid-leaved Dew Plant
The Deltoid-leaved Dew Plant, or Lampranthus deltoides, is a spreading succulent known for its triangular, fleshy leaves and vibrant flowers. This hardy plant is perfect for ground covers or rock gardens, blooming with daisy-like, bright flowers in various colors.
- Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Drought-tolerant once established.
- Attracts bees and butterflies with its colorful blooms.
Stone Plant
Stone Plant, belonging to the genus Lithops, is a fascinating succulent that resembles small stones or pebbles. These plants are masters of camouflage and are popular for their unique appearance. They require very minimal water and are perfect for small containers.
- Needs bright light but limited direct sun.
- Water sparingly, especially in winter.
- Flowers in autumn with small, daisy-like blooms.
Concrete Leaf
Concrete Leaf, also known as Titanopsis calcarea, is a small succulent with warty, grey-green leaves that resemble concrete. This plant is perfect for rock gardens and thrives in well-drained soil. Its leaves are tough and textured, providing a unique visual and tactile experience.
- Prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Requires minimal watering and well-draining soil.
- Blooms with small, yellow flowers in the fall or early winter.
Pepper Elder
Pepper Elder, known scientifically as Peperomia graveolens, is a semi-succulent plant characterized by its red stems and green, windowed leaves. This plant is ideal for indoor cultivation, thriving in bright, indirect light. It’s a great choice for adding a splash of color to interior spaces.
- Prefers bright, indirect light and moderate humidity.
- Requires well-drained soil and moderate watering.
- Can be propagated easily from leaf cuttings.
Coral Plant
Coral Plant, also known as Sedum rubrotinctum, is a popular succulent with jelly bean-shaped leaves that can turn red in bright sunlight. It’s an easy-to-grow plant that works well in containers, hanging baskets, or as ground cover. The plant is known for its vibrant leaf color and sprawling habit.
- Prefers bright light and well-draining soil.
- Leaves can detach easily but can be used for propagation.
- Can experience sunburn if suddenly exposed to too much direct sunlight.
Bunny Succulent
Bunny Succulent, also known as Monilaria obconica, is a delightful plant with small, bunny ear-shaped leaves. This charming succulent is perfect for small pots and is known for its whimsical appearance. It’s particularly popular around Easter due to its resemblance to rabbit ears.
- Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Requires well-draining soil and infrequent watering.
- Ideal for windowsills and small indoor plant arrangements.
Navelwort
Navelwort, or Umbilicus rupestris, is a unique succulent with round, fleshy leaves that have a navel-like indentation in the center. This plant is known for its rosette form and prefers shady, moist environments, making it different from most succulents.
- Thrives in partial shade and moist conditions.
- Ideal for rock gardens and shaded areas.
- Produces tall spikes of bell-shaped flowers in the summer.
Avonia
Avonia is a genus of small succulents known for their wiry, branched stems and scale-like leaves. These plants are perfect for small pots and rock gardens, adding a unique texture to succulent collections. They produce small, white or pink flowers.
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Requires well-draining soil and minimal watering.
- Ideal for miniature gardens and terrariums.
Larryleachia
Larryleachia is a genus of small, stem-forming succulents known for their interestingly patterned stems. These plants are native to southern Africa and are perfect for collectors looking for unusual succulents. They are slow-growing and require minimal care.
- Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Requires well-draining soil and infrequent watering.
- Produces small, star-shaped flowers.
Starfish Plant
The Starfish Plant, or Stapelia, is renowned for its large, star-shaped flowers that often have a distinct, sometimes unpleasant odor. This plant is perfect for those who appreciate unique and exotic succulents. The flowers are designed to attract pollinators, such as flies.
- Prefers bright, indirect light and well-drained soil.
- Water sparingly to avoid root rot.
- The flowers’ scent mimics rotting meat to attract specific pollinators.
Braunsia
Braunsia is a genus of small, mat-forming succulents with delicate, scale-like leaves. These plants are ideal for rockeries and container gardens, forming dense, cushion-like mounds. They produce small, daisy-like flowers, adding a splash of color to their subtle foliage.
- Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Requires well-draining soil and moderate watering.
- Ideal for alpine gardens and miniature landscapes.
Lobster Claws
Lobster Claws, or Cheiridopsis, is a unique succulent known for its claw-like leaves that open and close with changes in light and moisture. This fascinating plant is perfect for those interested in unusual and interactive succulents. It produces bright yellow or orange flowers.
- Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Needs well-drained soil and minimal watering.
- Flowers in late winter to early spring.
Tavaresia
Tavaresia is a genus of succulents known for their angular stems and tubular flowers. These plants are native to southern Africa and are perfect for collectors looking for something different. They are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in indoor conditions.
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Requires well-draining soil and infrequent watering.
- Flowers are often striking and can be quite large compared to the size of the plant.
Burro’s Tail
Burro’s Tail, or Sedum morganianum, is a popular trailing succulent known for its long, hanging stems covered in plump, green leaves. This plant is perfect for hanging baskets or as a trailing element in succulent arrangements. It’s particularly striking when it blooms with small, pink or red flowers.
- Thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Requires well-drained soil and infrequent watering.
- Stems are fragile and can easily drop leaves when disturbed.
Crown of Thorns
Crown of Thorns, or Euphorbia milii, is a succulent shrub known for its spiny stems and small, bright flowers. This plant can grow quite large and is perfect for adding a touch of the exotic to home or garden settings. It’s relatively easy to care for and can bloom year-round in the right conditions.
- Prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Needs well-drained soil and moderate watering.
- Sap is toxic and can cause skin irritation; handle with care.
Dragon Fruit
Dragon Fruit, also known as Hylocereus, is a tropical cactus that produces large, spectacular flowers and edible fruit. This climbing cactus is perfect for trellises or walls and requires support to grow. It’s a great choice for those interested in both ornamental and fruit-bearing plants.
- Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Needs well-draining soil and regular watering.
- The fruit is sweet and can be eaten fresh or used in recipes.
Echeveria
Echeveria is a large genus of succulents known for their stunning rosettes of colorful, sculptural leaves. These plants are popular in gardens and as houseplants due to their low maintenance and diverse varieties. Echeverias often produce bell-shaped flowers on long stalks.
- Prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Requires well-draining soil and infrequent watering.
- Leaves can vary in color from greens to pinks and purples, depending on the variety and sun exposure.
Flaming Katy
Flaming Katy, or Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, is a widely admired succulent for its vibrant, long-lasting flowers and glossy green leaves. It is a popular choice for indoor gardeners due to its ease of care and bright blooms. This plant is ideal for adding a pop of color to any setting.
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Needs well-drained soil and moderate watering.
- Comes in a variety of flower colors, including red, orange, yellow, and pink.
Ghost Plant
The Ghost Plant, or Graptopetalum paraguayense, is known for its pearly, opalescent leaves that can shift in color from blue-gray to pinkish-yellow under different lighting conditions. This succulent is versatile and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It’s particularly popular for its fast-growing, trailing habit.
- Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight.
- Requires well-draining soil and infrequent watering.
- Easily propagated from leaf cuttings.
Haworthia
Haworthia is a genus of small, rosette-forming succulents, known for their striking leaf patterns and textures. These plants are perfect for indoor cultivation, thriving in low-light conditions. They are slow-growing and require minimal care, making them ideal for beginners.
- Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates low light.
- Needs well-drained soil and occasional watering.
- Produces small, inconspicuous flowers on thin, long stalks.
Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe is a diverse genus of succulents known for their easy care and vibrant flowers. These plants are great for adding color to indoor spaces and can bloom for a long period under the right conditions. Kalanchoes are popular for their variety in leaf shapes and flower colors.
- Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Requires well-drained soil and moderate watering.
- Deadheading spent flowers can encourage re-blooming.
Mother of Thousands
Mother of Thousands, or Kalanchoe daigremontiana, is known for its unique ability to produce tiny plantlets along the edges of its leaves. This plant is a fast grower and can easily spread if the plantlets are allowed to fall and root. It’s an interesting plant for those who enjoy unusual propagation methods.
- Thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Needs well-drained soil and minimal watering.
- Can be invasive in outdoor settings; manage plantlets to control spread.
Panda Plant
The Panda Plant, or Kalanchoe tomentosa, is beloved for its fuzzy, velvety leaves that resemble the fur of a panda. This soft-textured succulent is perfect for indoor growing and adds a unique tactile element to collections. The leaves are typically green with brownish spots on the edges.
- Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Requires well-draining soil and infrequent watering.
- Ideal for adding texture to succulent arrangements.
Sempervivum – Hen and Chicks
Sempervivum, commonly known as Hen and Chicks, is a hardy succulent that forms clusters of rosettes. The “hen” is the main plant, and the “chicks” are the offspring, which spread around the mother plant. These plants are ideal for rock gardens, green roofs, and ground covers.
- Prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Drought-tolerant and requires well-drained soil.
- Cold hardy and can survive in harsh climates.
String of Pearls
String of Pearls, or Senecio rowleyanus, is a unique trailing succulent with small, round, bead-like leaves. This plant is perfect for hanging baskets or as a trailing element in mixed containers. It adds a whimsical and elegant touch to indoor spaces.
- Thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Requires well-drained soil and moderate watering.
- Fragile stems; handle with care to prevent breakage.
Tiger Jaws
Tiger Jaws, or Faucaria tigrina, is a small succulent known for its fleshy, triangular leaves that resemble the jaws of a tiger. This plant is a great addition to any succulent collection, especially for those interested in unique leaf textures. It blooms with yellow, daisy-like flowers.
- Prefers full sun to light shade.
- Needs well-draining soil and occasional watering.
- The leaf edges have soft teeth-like structures, adding to its tiger-like appearance.
Wax Plant
The Wax Plant, or Hoya, is not a traditional succulent but is often included due to its thick, waxy leaves. Hoyas are known for their stunning, fragrant flowers and trailing growth habit. They are ideal for hanging baskets or as climbing plants in indoor settings.
- Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
- Requires well-drained soil and moderate watering.
- Flowers are star-shaped and often produce a sweet fragrance.
