10 Most Popular Succulents
Liven up the dull corners in your home with a pot or two of these cute and charming plants
When succulents found their way into our feeds, we instantly fell in love with the cuteness of each tiny pot and how fairly easy it is to keep it alive. Over the years, we've seen beautiful setups in terrariums featuring succulents in different colors and shapes. While these plants do look alike, it's best to know how to distinguish one from the other so you can care for your plant the right way.
Succulents aren't too demanding when it comes to maintenance—they even thrive with minimal watering. These wonder plants have the ability to store water in their leaves or stems, which is why they can survive in hot and dry climates. In order to retain their color and shape, they need a bright and sunny indoor spot, like a special corner on your windowsill. From aloe vera to potted echeveria, succulents can be sculptural and quirky. If you're a succulent lover (calling all #plantitas and #plantitos) like us, here are 10 of the most popular that should be on your radar:
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera has thick, variegated leaves that fan out from the plant's central stem. It's best known for its medicinal uses. Keep your Aloe vera healthy by placing it near a window. Make sure you allow the soil to dry out between watering.
2. Hens and Chicks
Quite an unusual name, don't you agree? The "hen" refers to the main plant, while the "chicks" pertain to the offspring buds. A variety of Sempervivum, Hens and Chicks can store water in its thick leaves and is known to be drought-tolerant. This succulent comes in different colors and shapes, making it easier for you to create a captivating display where the soil is dry. Allow it to dry out before watering again.
3. String of Pearls
Also known as rosary string of beads, this creeping succulent stands out and can be placed on wall-mounted shelves. It has faint white blooms, thin thread-like stems, and fleshy round leaves. Place it in a bright spot out of direct light and water when the potting mix is dry.
4. Sedum treleasei
Commonly known as silver stonecrop, it has pale blue-green, thick and fleshy leaves that can grow up to 1.5 inches and somewhat flat on top and rounded below. The plants may also develop stems which may reach up to a foot in height. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
5. Zebra Haworthia
Haworthias are dainty succulent plants that are frequently compared to the Aloe vera. It features a rosette of plump, stiff, and upright leaves. They are slow growing plants that look brilliant in quirky containers. Never water the Haworthia if the soil is still moist from previous watering as like all succulents, it can rot quickly in waterlogged (soaked) soil.
6. Letizia
The Letizia is a small branching succulent that grows up to around 20cm tall, with rosettes of around 5cm. The older rosettes sit atop slender bare stems while younger ones have leaves the length of the stems. Keep the soil damp for a few weeks as roots and new plants begin to form. As the roots grow, cover these with soil to keep from drying out.
7. Tom Thumb
Crassula 'Tom Thumb' is a delightful miniature plant with tiny triangular leaves in opposing positions on stems. This succulent has tiny mint green leaves with colorful, reddish edges. Try to plant it in a location that enjoys partial sun and remember to water it moderately.
8. Sweetheart Hoya
This succulent has distinct heart-shaped leaves, making it an ideal Valentine's Day or anniversary gift. It can tolerate monthly watering—it's that hardy.
9. Portulacaria afra variegata
Also known as Elephant bush, this type of succulent has rounded to oval leaves are nearly sessile or directly attached to the reddish stems. Portulacaria afra needs bright light and very well-drained soil to thrive.
10. Burro's Tail
Enchanting and pretty, this attractive and unique looking plant has long hanging stems covered in thick heavy blue-green leaves that overlap like the hair on a donkey’s tail. The Burro's Tail is quite fragile and the leaves easily fall off if the plant is disturbed. Water well and don't water it again until the soil has thoroughly dried out. Overwatering may kill your plant.
Marvz Conti is the founder and brand owner of Habil Crafts. Follow @habilcrafts on Instagram. Marvz is also one of Real Living's Style Spotters. Click here to meet the rest of our Style Spotters.
