Succulents can survive in adverse growing conditions. Their thick leaves are filled with sap to help the plant retain moisture. While indigenous to dry areas, the plants have gained popularity among indoor and outdoor growers because of their relatively low maintenance and visual appeal. Succulents come in different shapes and sizes and provide a variety of benefits. They thrive in sunlight and require little water.
Fast Facts About Succulents
- Succulents are named because of their sap filled leaves – Succus is Latin for sap.
- There are over 10,000 plant varieties of succulents from 40+ different families.
- Colors range from green to pink, blue, purple, yellow, red, and orange.
- The Cactus and Succulent Society of America (CSSA) was founded in 1929 to create a community of succulent enthusiasts.
- All cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti. Cacti are succulents that have thorns or prickles.
- Succulents are prehistoric – the first succulents date back 5 to 10 million years. Succulents can live 70 – 100 years.
- Water is a symbol of wealth in Asian cultures. A succulent’s ability to retain water has led the plant to symbolize prosperity.
- The waxy covering on the leaves of succulents serves as a natural sunscreen to prevent the leaves from burning if overexposed to sunlight.
- The area of the world with the largest variety of succulents is Southern Africa with nearly 5,000 indigenous species.
- Succulents such as aloe vera and snake plant cleanse the air and remove toxins.
Succulents 101
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