Succulents are a kind of plants that thrives in warm, dry environments and have thick, succulent leaves. Water is stored in the leaves, roots, or stems of all succulent species. Green leaves are found in most succulent varieties, however red, blue, purple, pink, and orange leaves may be seen in certain types. Succulents are wonderful houseplants that need little care and are frequently tiny compact plants.
Succulents and cacti should not be confused. Not all succulents are cacti, despite the fact that the majority of cacti plants are classified as such.
You’ll learn about numerous succulent varieties in this article. Understanding how to look after various succulent kinds is easier when you know what to look for. In order to make identification easier, you’ll also learn the popular and botanical names of succulents.
How to Identify Succulents
The leaf shape and growth habit are the best ways to identify succulents. Succulents are separated from other plants by their fleshy leaves, of course.
The plant has fleshy leaves that form a rosette and give it a spike appearance, which are found in certain succulent species. Spiky, oval, smooth, or strappy-shaped leaves are found on several other types of succulents. You may see tiny ‘babies’ growing along the leaf margins of certain succulents varieties.
Types of Succulents With Names and Images – Identification Guide
Succulents and cactus come in several shapes, sizes, and colors, so you can plant them both indoors and out. To help you recognize them, this page includes a photo and common name for each of the succulents and cactus listed.
The majority of succulents prefer warm, arid conditions. As a result, certain succulent species are better suited to indoors cultivation.
To help enhance your décor, let’s take a look at some of the best succulent houseplants.
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
The succulent Aloe vera is one of the most well-known. The gel-filled leaves of aloe vera, a succulent green plant with a healing nature, are what make it stand out. Aloe vera is one of over 500 different types of aloe plants in the genus Aloe.
The long thick leaves with slightly jaggy edges of Aloe vera distinguish it as a tropical succulent species. The fleshy leaves of aloe vera emerge from the ground in a rosette-type formation, but it does not have a stem.
Throughout the summer, aloe vera plants bloom. The aloe plant produces long spikes up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall with yellow tubular blooms that droop from the ends.
In USDA zones 10 – 11 and in a screened area in zone 9, aloe vera may be cultivated outdoors.
Aloe vera is a spiky succulent with easily recognized blue-green thick meaty stalks containing a gel-like material. Along the pointed leaf margins, look for tooth-like jaggy spikes.
The white lacy patterns on the green pointed leaves differentiate lace aloe from other aloes. The succulent’s tender leaves are also covered in white little raised bumps.
The golden-toothed aloe plant has spiky margins on its broad triangular leaves, making it easy to identify.
Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)
Due to its long trailing stems, ‘Burro’s Tail’ is one of the best types of succulents to plant in hanging baskets. This attractive succulent has tiny blue-green plump leaves that make it resemble a tail. It’s also known as “Donkey’s tail.” Beautiful Burro’s Tail succulent stems can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) long on a healthy plant.
A perennial succulent that blooms is Burro’s Tail. Its tiny, delicate pink or crimson blooms normally bloom throughout the summer. This succulent plant, like most succulents, requires bright sunlight to maintain its leaves in good condition.
You may grow Burro’s tail outdoors in USDA zones 9 – 11 if you reside in a warm environment.
Burro’s tail is an simple succulent to recognize due to its thick trailing stems covered in tiny, fleshy crescent-shaped leaves that spiral around the stem.
Flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)
Calandiva plant (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana ‘Calandiva’) is a stunning cultivar of Flaming Katy. The flowers of Flaming Katy and Calandiva plants may be distinguished: Flaming Katy has single-petaled blooms, whereas Calandiva has showy blooms with double petals like a rose.
These Kalanchoe succulent varieties are sensitive to cold and may only be grown indoors. As a result, Kalanchoe should be planted in a container with a succulent soil mixture.
If you reside in USDA zones 10 and 11, you may grow kalanchoe plants outdoors.
The Kalanchoe blossfeldiana succulent has thick green leaves on short stems, making it a good succulent to identify. The gorgeous red, pink, orange, white, or yellow flowers of this Kalanchoe plant are broad and rounded.
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
The Jade Plant is an evergreen perennial succulent that is also known as the Money Tree plant or Money Plant. Its oval or wedge-shaped green leaves have delicate red edging on the tips and are thick and glossy. The huge stem and abundance of leafy stems distinguish the Jade plant. Leaves may be up to 3.5 inches (9 cm) broad and 1.4 inches (4 cm) long.
Indoors, grow your jade plant succulent in a temperature of 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius). Jade plants have been associated with good luck and are also known as the Lucky Plant in many civilizations.
Jade plant is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
The rounded, leathery leaves of the jade plant develop red blushing in full sun, making it easy to identify. The thick woody stems of the tree-like succulent may create groups of star-shaped pinkish blooms.
Echeveria
The genus Echeveria belongs to the Crassulaceae family of flowering succulents. The compact rosette form of the echeveria succulents’ fleshy leaves is frequently used to identify them.
Some of the most colorful succulent varieties come from the echeveria genus. Lime green leaves with pink edges, for example, belong to the ‘Plush plant’ (Echeveria pulvinata). A blue variety of succulent called the Echeveria laui has lovely pink succulent leaves, as do several species.
Outside in zones 9-11, some varieties of echeveria flourish, but most people prefer to keep them inside as a low-maintenance houseplant.
Succulent identification: Echeveria succulents have pointed leaves that resemble a rose, which may be seen growing in groups. Some are rounded, others are triangular-shaped, and some have long spoon-shaped fleshy leaves. The echeveria leaf shape helps differentiate these tiny succulent plants.
Plush Plant (Echeveria pulvinata)
The Plush plant, native to Mexico, has ovate green leaves with pink hues on the margins. The plant has a somewhat fuzzy feel and appearance due to the fine hairs on its succulent leaves. When it gets enough sunlight, the leaf color brightens, and when it blooms, the flowers are stunning orange.
Plush plant succulent is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Succulent identification: Succulent echeveria is a fuzzy succulent with silvery-green leaves covered in white soft fine hairs, according to the description.
Red Velvet Plush Plant (Echeveria pulvinata ‘Ruby’)
Green and red fuzzy succulent lance-shaped fleshy leaves with tiny orange flowers, the red velvet plush plant is a green and red fuzzy succulent. The red velvet plush plant leaves grow alternately on upright stems, unlike other varieties of Echeveria succulents. The succulent has a lovely appearance with its jade-green succulent leaves having sturdy reddish-pink fuzzy margins.
Echeveria ruby, red velvet, and ruby slippers are some of the other names for Echeveria pulvinata. Succulents that like heat and bright, dry environments thrive in warm, sunny conditions.
Lithops
Some of the more unusually-shaped succulent species are those in the Lithops genus. These succulents are also named ‘living stones’ or ‘pebble plants’ due to their stony appearance. In fact, their name comes from Greek for ‘stone face.’
Lithops are one of the most attractive succulents available for indoor cultivation. Lithops is named after two fat succulent leaves that are almost fused together. The two leaves split apart as new leaves and flowers emerge from between them. Brown, gray, cream, and green fat leaves with a rough surface may be found. It might be tough to distinguish lithops from stones when growing in the wild.
Lithops succulent blooms produce white or yellow blooms, which occurs most often in the fall.
Lithops are hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Little succulents that resemble pebbles or stones are referred to as lithops. When a new stem grows, the pebble-like succulents have a discernible split stem. The ‘living stones,’ on the other hand, are difficult to define due to their diverse colors and forms.
Bear’s Paw Succulent (Cotyledon Ladismithiensis)
The succulent leaves are covered in tiny hairs and the tips have tooth-like tips with delicate red edges, making the leaf resemble a paw, which is why it is also known as ‘Bear’s Paw.’
The Bear’s Paw succulent can grow up to 3.2 feet (1 meter) in length when grown in the proper environment inside. The succulent has a bushy appearance because of the thick fleshy leaves that grow haphazardly on the stems.
You should grow Bear’s Paw succulent in a container that is just bigger than the root system, as with most indoor succulents. During the summer, frequent deep watering keeps the plant in good shape.
Bear’s paw succulent is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
The fuzzy succulent bear’s paw has tiny hairy rounded leaves that resemble a little bear’s foot, which are ideal for succulent identification. If a bear gets plenty of sunlight, some types of its paws may have dark purple or red tips.
String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
The String of Pearls is one of the most attractive hanging succulents. Pearls or pea-like green balls are connected to thin stems on this creeping succulent species. The family Asteraceae includes this decorative succulent, making it more akin to daisies than cactus.
The String of Pearls succulent is also known as a “string of beads,” and its trailing stems stretch up to 3 feet (90 cm) long with a few tiny pea-shaped leaves on them.
The succulent blooms of the ‘String of Pearls’ bloom in the summer under the right indoor conditions. Like other kinds of asters, the little white blooms are trumpet-shaped and classified as complex blooms.
String of pearls succulent is hardy in USDA zones 9-12.
String of pearls have dangling stems with identifiable ball-like green leaves attached. Green peas are connected to dangling strings and appear as a hanging succulent.
Pincushion Cactus (Mammillaria crinita)
A succulent cactus known as the pincushion cactus. This cactus is a favorite of many people because to its unique furry look.
One of approximately 250 cactus species found only in Mexico, this prickly succulent belongs to the Mammillaria family. The fact that it is quite short makes adding a pincushion cactus to your succulent garden an advantage. When it blossoms, you’ll get vibrant pink blooms that aren’t taller than 6″ (15 cm).
Pincushion cactus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
The pincushion cactus is a fuzzy-looking green succulent with tiny silvery-white hairs and delicate pink and white blooms.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Sansevieria trifasciata, also known as the “snake plant,” belongs to the Asparagaceae family of plants. The long sword-like green leaves with yellow edging are a distinctive feature of the Sansevieria species. This is a rosette-type succulent, not a flowering plant. Some of the leaves may reach 3 feet (90 cm) in height, with others growing up to 6 feet (2 meters)!
One of the reasons to grow snake plant succulent indoors is that it grows well in poor conditions. This easy care succulent requires little maintenance and can provide attractive green and yellow colors to your home décor.
Snake plant succulent indoors thrives in poor circumstances, which is one of the reasons to cultivate it. This easy-care succulent delivers lovely green and yellow hues to your home décor, and it needs minimal care.
The snake plant is winter hardy to USDA zones 10-12.
Because of their tall, upright clusters of dark green and yellow fibrous leaves, snake plant succulents are simple to identify.
Haworthia Fasciata “Zebra Plant”
The Haworthia fasciata “zebra plant” is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a tiny succulent with a stunning look. South America is the home of these unusual succulents.
The Zebra plant is a small succulent that only grows to about 4” (10 cm) tall. It has dark green triangular leaves with white stripes. Its thick fleshy leaves grow in a rosette form. This is a flowering succulent that may produce yellow flowers in late fall or early winter.
The ideal houseplant for small spaces is Zebra succulents.
Haworthiopsis fasciata, also known as the “Zebra Plant,” grows in USDA zones 9 to 11.
The zebra plant has a spiky appearance and is a thick-leaved succulent plant. The raised white stripes and dots on the thick cylindrical pointed leaves.
Haworthia cooperi – The Transparent Succulent
A tiny uncommon succulent plant with meaty translucent leaves, the Haworthia cooperi is a little unusual. Haworthia cooperi, a succulent with glossy transparent leaves that form a rosette pattern in sandy soil, is known as the “see-through” variety.
It’s simple to grow a transparent Haworthia plant at home. It just requires indirect light, warmth, and occasional watering.
Many cultivars ofHaworthia cooperi have a distinctive and unusual appearance. The plump leaves might be triangular-shaped or globular, depending on the Haworthia cooperi cultivar.
In USDA zones 10 and 11, Haworthia cooperi is a hardy succulent.
The translucent ball-like or triangular, rounded light green leaves of Haworthia cooperi make it an easy succulent to identify.
Hoya Kerrii (Lucky-Heart) Plant
The Hoya kerrii, or lucky-heart plant, is a decorative succulent that thrives indoors and has a lovely appearance. This type of succulent is also known as love heart plant because of its heart-shaped leaves.
Bright direct light and well-draining loose soil are ideal for the succulent plant, which should be watered only occasionally. Keep these rare and strange indoor plants between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C) with moderate humidity. During the growing season, fertilize up to four times.
Discover other lovely hoya species and learn how to care for hoya kerrii (sweetheart plant / valentine hoya).
Hoya kerrii is winter hardy to USDA zone 11.
The succulent leaves in a heart shape of the Hoya kerrii make it easy to identify. The solitary leaves for sale in a pot are common, despite the fact that the lucky-heart plant is a trailing or climbing plant.
Pig’s Ear (Cotyledon orbiculata)
This Cotyledon succulent’s large round leaves earned it the moniker Pig’s Ears. The 5-inch (13-centimeter) long gray-green oval leaves have a crimson line going around their margins, and they may grow up to 5 inches (13 centimeters).
In a succulent garden, the Cotyledon succulent plant can reach a height of around 4 feet (1.3 meters). When the Pig’s Ear succulent blooms, it’s one of the best things ever. A profusion of tiny orange bell-shaped flowers appear on tall stalks.
The Pig’s Ears (Cotyledon) succulent is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
The dollar-shaped green leaves with crimson borders on the pig’s ear succulent identify it. The pig’s ear plant resembles a little succulent tree because to the clusters of light green leaves that grow atop woody stems.
The Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’ is one of the most impressive succulents you can cultivate in your yard. The Aeonium Zwartkop cultivar is known as the “black rose” because of its black-colored leaves and rosette form. It also produces brilliant yellow flowers when grown in full sun.
The subtropical Aeonium arboreum succulent plant has light lime-green leaves that spread as a small shrubby bush. The popular species (Aeonium Arboreum) is also known as “Irish rose” and “treehouse leek.”
The Aeonium Zwartkop is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
The Zwartkop succulent has a large rose flower-like head on the end of its woody stems, which makes it easy to identify. The dark purple, nearly black leaves of the Zwartkop plant create a pinwheel pattern.
Sunburst Succulent (Aeonium ‘Sunburst’)
Green leaves with crimson or light pink borders fan out in a circle from the center of this appropriately named succulent. The limbs of this aeonium succulent hybrid may be up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter, with big rosettes.
Most succulents in the genus Aeonium have a distinctive pinwheel shape, as seen in Aeonium ‘Sunburst.’
USDA zones 9-11 are suitable for the Aeonium ‘Sunburst’ succulent.
The striped yellow and green leaves, as well as the brilliant pink borders, help to identify the sunburst succulent. The sunburst succulent plant, which grows in a large rosette form, is one of the most vibrant big succulents.
Mother of Thousands Plant (Bryophyllum daigremontianum or Kalanchoe daigremontiana)
The intriguingly shaped succulent plant thrives indoors as a houseplant or outdoors in zones 9 to 11. It is known as the mother of thousands plant (Bryophyllum daigremontianum or Kalanchoe daigremontiana).
The tiny plantlets that grow along the leaf margins are an unusual feature of the mother of thousands. The plant becomes easy to propagate because of the roots that develop on these plantlets.
A widely invasive plant is the mother of thousands. The succulent can quickly overrun a garden because the little plantlets thrive so well. As a result, it’s recommended to grow the plant in a pot if you want to cultivate it outdoors.
The mother of thousands succulents has identifiable oblong leaves that are somewhat curled along the midrib and have tiny plantlets growing along the edges.
Paddle Plant (Kalanchoe thyrsiflora or Kalanchoe luciae)
The paddle plant, which has enormous spatulate leaves with crimson borders, is also known as the flapjack succulent. In colder conditions, the jade-green leaves may become crimson and purple. In pots, paddle plant succulents may reach a height of 10 inches (25 cm).
The flat, circular leaves grow stacked like pancakes, giving the succulent a flapjack name. Desert cabbage, white lady, and red pancakes are other names for the paddle plant.
The obvious succulence of paddle plants is seen in their rosette-patterned waxy leaves.
Woolly Senecio or Cocoon Plant (Caputia tomentosa)
Woolly senecio is a fuzzy succulent with woody stems and little felted white cylindrical leaves that grow in clusters. With its fuzzy grayish-white leaves, the white-colored succulent has a stunning look. Senecio succulents reach a height of 4–10 inches (10–25 cm).
Senecio haworthii is the botanical name for the succulent. The plant’s leaves look like little hairy cocoons, which is why it is often referred to as cocoon leaf. Cocoon plants need a lot of sunlight to survive and aren’t cold-hardy.
Woolly senecio: The fuzzy cocoon-shaped leaves that grow in clusters on the stems of this succulent identification are easily recognized.
Pussy Ears (Kalanchoe tomentosa)
The pussy ears succulent is a fuzzy succulent with little, tightly folded leaves that look like cat ears. The name suggests. The dark burgundy red rim around the leaf margins is a distinguishing feature of the pussy ears. Pussy ears succulent cultivars, also known as panda plants, have grayish or blue-green leaves and are popular.
The hairy oval leaves on a pussy ears plant rise to 1.5 feet (0.45 meters) tall on thick woody stems. In a sunny location on a south-facing windowsill, the optimum location to cultivate a pussy ears plant is. Outside of USDA zones 9 and 11, it may also be cultivated.
pussy ears are identified by their round, dark red or brown-tipped fuzzy leaves.
A colorful globular pink, orange, yellow, or red top contrasts with a black green spiky stem on moon cactus, an unusual colorful cactus. By grafting a brightly-colored Gymnocalycium mihanovichii cactus on a regular cactus, different types of moon cacti can be created. Grafting allows the colorful top to develop on any kind of cactus since these plants don’t create chlorophyll.
One of the most varied succulents is moon cactus. Moon cacti with multi-colored ball-like tops may be found. The prominent ribs and small clusters of spines on the colorful top are a characteristic of all moon cacti.
To help your moon cactus thrive, grow it in bright sunlight and water it occasionally.
Moon cacti are sometimes known as star-flower cactus because the bottom portion is normally an upright cactus with a star form.
The bright color of a moon cactus’s globular top on a dark green base is the most distinguishing characteristic.
Succulent Types for Outdoors (With Pictures) – Identification Guide
In warm and dry regions, succulents are excellent outdoor plants for placing in south-facing rock gardens. Agaves, for example, are excellent choices for outdoor cultivation since they are giant plants.
Succulents may be grown outside in pots and brought indoors during the winter if you live in colder areas but still want to enjoy warm summers. Succulents are also hardy enough to survive harsh winters.
Agave
The genus Agave belongs to the Asparagaceae family of succulents and they can reach enormous sizes. The vast, thick triangle-shaped succulent leaves of agave are used to identify them. Outdoor agaves, which may grow in USDA zones 5 to 10, are cold-hardy varieties. Agaves prefer the Southern United States, Mexico, and the Mediterranean for their natural habitat.
When Agave succulents bloom, one of their most noticeable qualities is. A 21-foot-long (7 m) spike erupts from the center of the rosette Agave plant during this unusual occurrence.
The rosette-shaped agave species, known as the Golden Flowered Century Plant, has lovely blue fleshy leaves. A stunning blue succulent with a spiky rosette form, the King of the Agaves is a knockout. A perennial succulent with triangular leaves in a wide rosette pattern, the Artichoke Agave is a perennial.
Agave succulent plants have a clump of thick fleshy bluish-green leaves in a rosette shape and resemble large aloe plants.
Roseum Sedum (Sedum spurium ‘Roseum’)
In both their natural and cultivated forms, roseum succulent plants are stunning. Their pale pink tinge to the edges gives their delicate light green succulent leaves a dainty appearance. The plant leaves have serrated edges and are arranged in a rosette shape. When the leaves are in full sun, the color brightens, and gorgeous light pink blooms will emerge when they bloom.
This succulent thrives in full-sun ground cover when grown outside in zones 4-10. This lovely plant thrives in containers and makes attractive hanging baskets.
Roseum sedum succulents have green succulent leaves that turn reddish-pink in full sun, making them easy to identify. When the weather permits, this ground-cover succulent plant produces pink blooms.
Torch Plant (Aristaloe aristata)
The Torch plant has a similar appearance to aloe vera (Aloeae) and belongs to the same tribe. Long, fleshy triangular leaves with a rosette formation may reach up to 10 feet (3 meters) tall in the right circumstances. The serrated margins of the succulent green lance-shaped leaves are prominent. The plant becomes fuzzy and has a bristly appearance as a result of this.
Torch plants prefer heat and are hardy to zones 8–10. The Torch plant succulent can provide a stunning focal point if you reside in a warm region with adequate garden area.
Torch plant succulent has triangular green leaves with a rosette growth habit and is easily identified by that. White-toothed margins and white bumps distinguish the lanceolate succulent leaves.
Hens and Chicks Succulent (Sempervivum tectorum)
Hens and Chicks are one of the most appealing succulent varieties to cultivate in a rock garden or container. They are also known as “live forever” plants because of their hardiness and capacity to endure a wide range of environments. These lovely succulents stay green all year, even in freezing cold environments.
Hens and Chicks is a lovely succulent plant that grows to be 4″ (10 cm) in diameter when grown in the form of a rosette. Blue, red, green with pink blushing, or green and purple tips are among the colors of the fleshy leaves.
Despite the fact that these lovely succulents only live for around three years, they seem to be immortal because to the amount of chicks they produce.
Firestick Plant ‘sticks on fire’ (Euphorbia tirucalli ‘sticks on fire’)
A succulent with clumps of pencil-like stems that appear orangey-red in color and ‘stick on fire,’ the firestick plant (also known as pencil cactus) is a kind of succulent.
The magnificent stem color of the Firestick plant adds beauty to any yard or landscaped area. Firestick plant bushes resemble sea coral because of their fast development and mostly red colors.
Firestick is a simple succulent that grows in USDA zones 10 through 12 and is easy to grow. Bright sunlight, warm temperatures, and minimal humidity are ideal for the firestick succulent.
The succulent contains white substance that is poisonous to dogs and cats, and may severely irritate the skin and eyes of humans. It’s best to cultivate the firestick plant outdoors in warm regions.
The pencil-like stems of the firestick succulent are red or orange in hue, making it easy to identify.
Candelabra Cactus (Euphorbia Trigona)
The Candelabra cactus (Euphorbia trigona or Euphorbia cactus) is a succulent that isn’t a real cactus species. This plant is a tall-growing branching succulent that you may cultivate outdoors in a warm climate (USDA 10-11). It’s also known as the African milk tree.
Euphorbia succulent, which grows tall, is also suitable for indoor cultivation. It flourishes in a sunny location with plenty of indirect light. Learn more about how to care for an African Milk Tree (Euphorbia Cactus / Candelabra Cactus).
The candelabra cactus is a succulent with long three-sided fleshy stems with pointed spines that is readily recognized. The tall succulent has upward-facing offshoots from the main stem, giving it a cactus-like appearance.
Queen of the Night Cactus (Epiphyllum oxypetalum)
The Queen of the Night Cactus has flat, broad, drooping leaves and huge white blooms that only bloom at night. It is a stunning succulent. Due to its epiphytic nature and showy orchid-like flowers, the queen of the night is classified as an orchid cactus. The climbing or pendulum leaves of the cactus orchid can stretch up to 20 feet (6 meters).
The queen of the night has succulent fleshy leaves that store moisture, despite the fact that it does not look like a typical succulent. Lady of the Night, Night- Blooming Cereus, and Dutchman’s Pipe Cactus are all names for the queen of the night.
USDA zones 10 to 12 are ideal for growing queen of the night.
The flattened succulent green leaf-like stems of a queen of the night orchid can be used to identify it. Large, white showy blooms 12″ (30 cm) long and 8″ (20 cm) wide bloom as a queen of the night.
German Empress (Disocactus phyllanthoides)
Green flat, leaf-like stems grow up to 3 feet (1 meter) long and bear gorgeous pink blooms on the German empress flowering orchid cactus. The German empress blooms during the day, unlike the similar queen of the night cactus. The plant should bloom well under ideal growing circumstances throughout the year.
The German empress succulent is best grown outdoors in USDA zones 9 – 11.
The showy cup-shaped pink blooms, which are 4″ (10 cm) long and 3.5″ (9 cm) wide, are the best way to identify the German empress cactus.
Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra)
Little oval or obovate-shaped green leaves and clusters of star-shaped white or pink blooms characterize elephant bush, which is a shrublike flowering succulent plant. The colorful trailing stems, hanging from hanging baskets, look stunning as they grow in pots indoors. The succulent grows as a shrub between 8 and 15 feet (2.5 to 4.5 meters) tall in USDA zone 10 and 11.
Elephants like eating the succulent Elephant bush, hence its name. Spekboom and porkbush are two names for the succulent. It is also known as dwarf jade plant because of its resemblance to bush-like plants.
A variegated variant with green and cream-white leaves, the Rainbow Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’)
Elephant bush has reddish trailing stems with tiny rounded green leaves that grow widest at the apex and taper down to the stem.
Types of Hanging Succulents (With Pictures) – Identification Guide
On dangling stems, many succulents produce fleshy or moisture-retaining leaves. The stems of certain hanging succulents are extremely thick and may grow many feet long, such as Burro’s tail, Hindu rope, and queen of the night. These hanging basket plants are eye-catching. The stems of some hanging succulents are thin and have thread-like appearance, as well as unusual leaves.
Here is a list of some delicate succulents that have stems that look like long dangling strings:
Thread-like stems with crescent-shaped leaves resembling bananas make up the String of Bananas (Senecio radicans).
The unusually succulent leaves of the Senecio hippogriff (String of Dolphins) appear to be dolphins leaping out of the water. As a result, the plant is known as the Dolphin Necklace.
The succulent trailing stems of Senecio herreianus have clusters of tear-shaped leaves that resemble water droplets.
Little oval leaves, similar to nickels, make up the leafy growth on the string-like stems of the String of Nickels (Dischidia nummularia).
Beautiful heart-shaped leaves cascade on thin stems in the String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii). On the top side, the succulent leaves are grayish-green, whereas on the bottom side they are purple.
String of Buttons (Crassula perforata)
The succulent plant with thick meaty stems and leaves that look like they’re stacked on the stems is a shrub-like succulent. The jade-green succulent button-like leaves grow in opposing pairs along the stem, with pink hints. Over time, the spreading succulent stems become pendulous, growing up to 2 feet (0.6 m) tall.
The string of buttons has other names such as stacked crassula, pagoda plant, or necklace vine.
Stacked crassula, pagoda plant, and necklace vine are some of the other names for this string of buttons.
The succulent buttons have identifiable triangular leaves growing oppositely on succulent stems and seem to be pierced through the center of the leaf stack, making them look like a stem.
Hindu Rope (Hoya carnosa ‘Compacta’)
The Hindu rope plant is a hoya wax plant with curving leaves and clusters of star-shaped pink porcelain blooms that grows on succulent vines. The leaves are 1.2–2 inches (3–5 cm) broad and range in length from 1.2 to 5 inches (3 to 13 cm). In an umbrella shape, Hoyas create clusters of fragrant flowers.
The Hindu rope has dark green waxy leaves with a glossy surface. Succulent identification: Krinkle Kurl has twisted green leaves and is known as the Hoya carnosa ‘Compacta.’ The fragrant pink or white blooms create a showy sheen and resemble little stars.
Trailing Wax Plant (Hoya pachyclada)
Waxy oval leaves cover trailing woody stems and clusters of fragrant white blooms on the wax plant. Hoya plants, which grow in pots or hanging baskets, have a compact growth and seem beautiful. The red edges on the round hoya leaves are a characteristic of the hoya leaves.
A ball of white star-shaped blooms surround the trailing wax plant. Hoya blooms have a nice fragrance when they are blooming in the spring and may bloom multiple times throughout the season.
Trailing wax plant identification: The distinguishing characteristics of the trailing wax plant are succulent leaves that are thick, fleshy, and oval or round.
Calico Kitten (Crassula pellucida ‘Variegata’)
The calico kitten, with little creamy-white, green, and pink leaves, is one of the nicest succulents available. The stems of a spreading succulent will begin to spill over the container’s edge. Depending on the growing conditions, the leaves might be deep pink or pale yellow with a light green core.
Calico kitten plants may be grown as colorful ground cover for full sun in USDA zones 9 to 11 if you live in a rock garden. Calico kitten plants are lovely potted plants that may be enjoyed by most homeowners on a sunny sill.
Yellow-green elliptic leaves with rosy-red edges help to identify succulent species: Succulent identification: Colorful calico kitten succulents.
Lantern Flower (Ceropegia haygarthii)
The lantern flower plant, with vines that produce egg-shaped leaves and unusual succulent flowers, is a compact hanging basket succulent. The petals of the lantern flowers are purple flecked and funnel-shaped. The flowers, which are joined at the ends and have protruding purple discs on a short stem, are an unusual characteristic.
Succulent vining stems may grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) long on lantern flower plants. The tiny green circular leaves on the thick vines appear sparse, while the creamy blossoms emerge 1.5″ (4 cm) long and 1″ (2.5 cm).
Flowering Succulents (With Pictures) – Identification Guide
To cheer up your yard, here are gorgeous varieties of blooming succulents.
Airplane Plant/Propeller Plant (Crassula perfoliata var. minor, formerly Crassula falcata)
The attractive airplane plant, which bears gray-green propeller-shaped leaves, is a blooming succulent. The fleshy leaves are up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) long and 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) broad. At maturity, the propeller plant may grow up to 2 feet (0.6 meters) tall.
The deep clusters of tiny bright red flowers are one of the airplane plant’s most stunning features. The plane plant blossoms for up to four weeks and produces spectacular scarlet red blooms in mid-summer.
The greyish-green, slightly fuzzy leaves and thick clusters of red-blooming summer flowers are the identifying characteristics of the succulent plant.
Buttons on a String (Crassula Rupestris)
Button plants with little triangular-shaped leaves on upright branches are a blooming succulent. The leaves on this lovely succulent are maroon or pink with grayish-green edges. The colors of the spreading succulent become more vibrant when it is cultivated in bright light. The whole leaves might change pinkish-red in rare cases.
Succulent identification: A lovely branching succulent with tiny pointed fleshy leaves that appear to be strung together is what the string of buttons is. In the summer, the leaves turn red or yellow, and pale pink star-shaped blooms contrast nicely.
Devil’s backbone is a gorgeous, big-pointed ovate leaf succulent plant with clusters of crimson tubular blooms that blooms all season. On stems that are 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters) tall, the smooth dark green leaves grow. At the end of tall stems, cylindrical bird-shaped flower-like bracts grow.
Redbird flower, slipper flower, fiddle flower, and zig-zag plant are just a few of the frequent names for devil’s backbone. In USDA zones 10 and 11, it likes plenty of sun.
Devil’s backbone has pointed red blooms growing in terminal clusters, tapering leaves, and little ovoid seed pods, which are all identifying features.
Purple Spurge (Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’)
Purple spurge is a bushy evergreen perennial succulent with dark green oblong leaves and purple stems. It’s also known as wood spurge. At the ends of the upright leafy branches, lime-green blooms appear in the spring and early summer. The succulent grows 12″ to 18″ (30cm) tall and broad, preferring full sun and little water.
Planting purple spurge in front of borders to create contrasting dark purple and brilliant green hues is a good idea. In part shade, especially if your yard has poor, sandy soil, it’s also ideal for ground cover.
Baby Toes (Fenestraria rhopalophylla)
Just the tips of the cylindrical fleshy leaves above ground are visible above ground, making baby toes a mat-forming succulent. These club-shaped leaves, each with a transparent top, make up this unusual geophyte succulent. The exquisite, colorful blooms with thin petals are a prominent feature of baby toes succulent.
Fenestraria rhopalophylla subsp. rhopalophylla Aurantiaca: Golden-yellow blooms with spindly petals that emerge at the end of slender stems characterize this yellow-flowering succulent.
Bunny Succulent (Monilaria moniliformis)
Bunny succulents are a group of slender, barrel-shaped fleshy leaves that grow low to the ground and form clumps. The attractive white and yellow flowers, which grow to be 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter, bloom on this flowering plant. The succulent’s unusual growth form causes its leaves to vanish throughout the summer.
Bunny succulents have leaves that are up to 1.2” (3 cm) in diameter and grow up to 6″ (15 cm) tall. The cylindrical green succulent leaves, on the other hand, only blossomed in the winter. The plant’s common name comes from the fact that some of its small leaves resemble bunny ears.
Bunny ear succulents have cylindrical green leaves growing in pairs and joined at the base, which is the identifying characteristic.
Other Types of Succulents
Jelly Bean Plant (Sedum rubrotinctum)
With stems covered in green and red bean-like leaves, the jelly bean plant is a sprawling succulent. The colorful chubby foliage of this decorative succulent is prized. In full sun, the leaves assume a jellified appearance and become scarlet. The jelly bean leaves are 0.8″ (2 cm) long, and the fleshy stems grow up to 8″ (20 cm) tall.
The jelly bean plant’s beautiful yellow blooms, which appear in the middle of spring, are another appealing feature.
To cultivate in pots, the jelly bean plant is a lovely, ornamental succulent. You may cultivate the low-growing succulent as ground cover or brighten up a succulent garden in USDA zones 9 through 11. It’s terrific for a xericonversiong environment as well.
The jelly bean plant’s leaves look like jelly beans in the winter and orange and red in the summer, which makes it easy to identify.
Ghost Plant (Graptopetalum paraguayense)
The ghost plant, which has big, thick, light gray to green leaves in a rosette flower form and blooms in the summer, is a vibrant succulent. The succulent plant has pointed leaves with a jelly tip that grows up to 12 inches (30 cm) long on stems. The huge ornamental rosettes may reach a width of 4″ (10 cm).
In USDA zones 7 through 11, the ghost plant is a sun-loving cold-hardy succulent. Yellow blooms emit attractive sprays in the spring. Moreover, in hot, dry situations, the succulent leaves turn dusty pink and pale yellow.
The ghost plant is excellent for ground cover, decorating a xeriscape, or growing in hanging baskets because of its trailing stems.
Large, green-gray, or greenish-pink leafy rosettes growing on long, spreading stems are the identifying features of this succulent.
‘Cobweb Hens and Chicks’ (Sempervivum arachnoideum)
Cobweb Hens and Chicks is a cluster-forming succulent with fleshy green leaves that grows in tightly packed rosettes. It is low-growing. A white, hairy, webbed covering reminiscent of disordered cobwebs covers the green rosettes. The plants produce crimson-colored flowering stalks with star-shaped crimson-pink blooms in the summer.
After blooming, these succulents perish. The plant continues to spread and grow because they generate so many offsets. This low-growing, spreading succulent develops 1 to 3 inches (2 to 7.5 cm) tall and breadth.
The exceptional, crimson-colored succulent has crimson fleshy leaves with soft white hairs and webbing on its leaves. Sempervivum arachnoideum ‘Rubrum’ The succulent has a fuzzy appearance as a result of this feature.
Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)
Purslane has succulent spoon-shaped leaves and reddish stems, and it grows as an annual herbaceous plant. The plant produces yellow blooms with four or five notched golden petals. 0.5 inch (1 cm) wide are the individual golden-yellow blooms. In USDA zones 10 and 11, its low-growing prostrate habit creates a succulent foliage mat.
This trailing succulent has several ornamental features. It is also known as little hogweed or garden purslane. The edges of the oblong, edible green leaves are crimson. Yellow blooms bloom alongside a lush environment. Purslane is a excellent spreading succulent for full sun or partial shade ground cover because of its slow growth.
Creeping Inchplant or Turtle Vine (Callisia repens)
With tiny, fuzzy lanceolate leaves and little insignificant white flowers, creeping inchplant is a mat-forming clumping succulent. The dark green color on the top surface of a creeping inchplant leaf and the rich purple beneath make it a decorative feature. This spreading succulent grows to be 4 inches (10 cm) tall and spreads up to 4 feet (1.2 meters).
This hardy succulent, sometimes known as turtle vine, grows well as a ground cover in USDA zones 8 through 10. The succulent is appropriate as a hanging basket plant indoors because of its trailing leafy stems and fragrant white blooms.
Small, pointed green and purple leaves covered in soft, fine hairs are used to identify succulent inchplant.
Little Pickles (Crassothonna capensis, formerly Othonna capensis)
Purple woody stems, slender finger-like leaves, and yellow daisy-like flowers characterize the little pickles plant, which is a trailing succulent. The unusual fleshy leaves of this succulent, which turn purple-red in dry conditions, are one of the ornamental features. The plant makes a ideal succulent for hanging baskets since little pickles stems grow up to 1 foot (30 cm) long.
The succulent, which grows outdoors in USDA zones 9 through 11, is also known as a ruby necklace. The plant’s long, bean-like leaves give it a lush, vibrant green, red, purple, and yellow hue. Nevertheless, growing the plant in shaded, cooler areas sheltered from direct sunlight is optimal for obtaining the finest colors.
Silver Dollar Plant (Xerosicyos danguyi)
With cylindrical stems, dark green spherical leaves, and yellow blooms, the silver dollar plant is a vining succulent. The leaves of Xerosicyos danguyi, which are about 1.6″ (4 cm) long, give it the popular name “dollar coin.”
The plant’s tendrils, which attach to a trellis or chain-link fence, are another unusual feature.
In USDA zones 9 to 11, the silver dollar plant thrives in full sun or partial shade. This climbing, succulent plant is ideal for covering a pergola or arbor. In colder regions, you may grow the succulent plant in a tall pot or hanging basket. Its vines may grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) long.
The silver dollar succulent has thick, stiff, round gray-green leaves and yellowish-green flowers. It is easily identified.
Starfish Plant (Orbea variegata, formerly Stapelia variegata)
The starfish plant, which has huge flowers that resemble a starfish, is an unusual succulent. Five triangular leaves surround a spherical center make the stunning blooms. Each 3.2-inch (8-centimeter) wide star-shaped yellowish-green and brownish-speckled bloom. The four-angled, serrated stems are speckled green and purple-brown, which is another remarkable characteristic.
The speckled yellow-green leaves and brown dots give the starfish plant a pinkish appearance, which makes it easy to identify.
Turkish Stonecrop (Rosularia platyphylla)
Turkish stonecrop is a mounding succulent with densely packed little green rosettes that develops over time. This succulent foliage clump grows to be up to 6 inches (15 centimeters) tall and spreads to be up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) wide. In USDA zones 5 to 10, the cold-hardy succulent is suited for dry settings.
The flower-like rosette foliage of Turkish stonecrop looks like that of ‘Hens and Chicks.’ It has spoon-shaped, slightly hairy leaves. In addition, in the summer, little clusters of white tubular blooms appear.
Turkish stonecrop is a succulent that has dense clusters of leaves growing in a rosette shape, making it easy to identify.
Graptoveria
Graptoveria is a tiny succulent plant with little rosettes that are fleshy and attractive. Short, triangular blue-green leaves characterize some of these succulent species. Elongated pointed leaves that are greenish-brown, pale pink, or dark red characterize other Graptoveria succulents.
The Graptoveria cultivar of Crassula x graptoveria has bluish-green rosettes on woody stems. The many pale whitish-pink leaves contrast with the blue-green foliage, making this succulent an appealing choice.
Graptoveria cultivar: This woody stem cultivar of Crassula x graptoveria has blue-green rosettes. The numerous pale whitish-pink leaves set against the blue-green foliage make this succulent a popular addition to gardens.
This succulent, known as Graptoveria ‘Fred Ives,’ has loose rosette-shaped purple leaves.
Beads Lampranthus (Braunsia maximiliani)
With huge rose-colored blooms, lampranthus beads is a tiny, low-spreading succulent. Gray-green leaves with a fused third of their length develop on the trailing stems. The succulent blooms, which feature many bright pink flowers ranging in diameter from 1″ (2.5 cm) to 2″ (5 cm), bloom in late winter.
In USDA zones 9 through 11, beads lampranthus is a pink-flowered succulent that may be grown outdoors. It grows slowly and may tolerate high temperatures and even frost. However, in the hottest months, it requires shading from direct sunlight.
Chinese Jade (Sinocrassula yunnanensis)
Chinese jade is a tiny succulent with tiny clumps of half-round, flattened leaves. The succulent leaves may grow to be 4″ (10 cm) tall and 1.5″ (4 cm) broad in a rosette pattern. The dark blue-green leaves of this succulent become dark purple to black in full sunlight, which is an unusual feature.
Chinese Jade has little fuzzy dark green leaves that become black and tiny white blossoms that bloom in the summer and autumn. Succulent identification:
The cocoon plant has gray-green leaves that grow in a rosette pattern and is a slow-growing succulent. This succulent can reach a height of up to 12 inches (30 centimeters). To reach that height, though, it will take many years. This color of the succulent brightens in brilliant sunlight, as do many succulents in the Crassulaceae family.
Succulent identification: The cocoon plant has plump grayish-green succulent leaves growing in an open rosette pattern.
Mangave
Mangave succulents are a result of hybridizing plants in the Agave genus and the former genus Manfreda. They’re found in hot, dry places.
Mangave plants, which can tolerate drought, have hard colorful and patterned succulent leaves that resemble agave plants but lack their spines. While certain cultivars may grow taller, Mangave plants are typically 24 inches (60 cm) tall. In the summer, mangaves produce flowers as well.
Here are some attractive cultivars of mangaves:
The Mangave ‘Kaleidoscope’ is a stunning succulent with arching, lance-shaped dark green leaves and vividly colored bright red edges.
Mangave has thick lance-shaped burgundy-red leaves with green speckles, and it is commonly known as the “Mission to Mars” and the “Inca Warrior.” The cinnamon spines on the leaf edges curve upward.
Mangave Agave x Manfreda: This succulent Mangave cultivar has a densely growing rosette form with long, pointed green arching leaves and toothed margins.
An amazing succulent with slender lanceolate leaves, Manfreda undulata ‘Cherry Chocolate Chip’ The small leaves are patterned dark green and brown with spectacular cherry red borders, and their upturned wavy borders are dotted.
How to Care for Succulents
Succulents are popular houseplants because they are easy to care for. Their beautiful designs, textures, and colors are ideal for any room. Succulents are typically maintained as small indoor plants, and it’s simple to care for a few of them.
To avoid root rot, succulents should be put in well-drained soil. Succulents may be grown successfully in home gardens using regular cactus potting soil. When the top 1” (2.5 cm) of soil is dry, you should water your succulents. Pour enough water into your succulents until the drainage holes are full to ensure that they get enough water.
You’ll need to clean the dust off of your indoor succulents’ leaves with a moist cloth, too. This assists to promote development while maintaining your indoor succulent plants.