Succulent Encyclopedia
Encyclopedia of popular succulents with care guides, traits, and propagation methods.
Featured Succulent
Showing 5 of 129 species
© Michael Wolf / CC BY 2.5Artichoke cactus
Obregonia denegrii
The only species in its genus, with leaf-like triangular tubercles spiralled into a shape like an artichoke or upturned pine cone. The woolly crown bears white flowers in summer.
© Abu Shawka / CC0Conophytum burgeri
Conophytum burgeri
A single-headed, onion-shaped Conophytum with glossy, translucent skin and only a tiny slit at the top. It blushes pink to reddish-purple in cold weather or strong sun.
Lithops
Lithops spp.
The 'Living Stone' from South Africa. Tiny succulents with two fused leaves that shed their outer skin to grow. Unique watering schedule makes them an advanced choice.
© C T Johansson / CC BY-SA 3.0Living rock cactus
Ariocarpus fissuratus
A spineless, flattened cactus whose triangular, furrowed tubercles overlap like a tortoise shell. It flowers pinkish-purple from the crown in autumn; a classic of the genus Ariocarpus.
© LavaLampBamboo / CC BY-SA 4.0Spiral aloe
Aloe polyphylla
A stemless aloe whose broad grey-green leaves form five ranks in a striking clockwise or anticlockwise spiral. Found only in the high mountains of Lesotho and listed in CITES Appendix I.
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Succulent FAQ
- How much do succulents cost?
- Common Echeveria cost 300-2,000 yen, popular Haworthia obtusa 1,000-10,000 yen, and rare hybrids or large specimens can exceed tens of thousands of yen.
- Can beginners grow succulents?
- Echeveria, Sedum, and Graptopetalum are hardy and beginner-friendly. Place in a sunny spot and water only when the soil is completely dry.
- What are the key tips for growing succulents?
- Place in a sunny spot with good airflow and water sparingly. Many species go dormant in summer and winter, so adjusting care to their growing season is key to beautiful growth.
- What should I check when buying succulents?
- Check that leaves are plump and firm, the base isn't rotting, and there are no pests (like mealybugs). For bare-root plants, root condition is also important.
- How long do succulents live?
- With proper care, succulents can thrive for 10+ years depending on species. They're easily propagated through leaf cuttings and division, allowing enjoyment across generations.