Succulents

Succulents are plants characterized by thick, fleshy tissues that store water, enabling them to survive in arid and semi-arid environments. They occur in many plant families but share adaptations such as enlarged stems or leaves, a waxy cuticle, and, in many species, CAM photosynthesis to reduce water loss. The group is not taxonomically uniform; cacti, for example, are succulents within the family Cactaceae, but not all succulents are cacti.

Succulent diversity is high, with thousands of species in genera such as Aloe, Crassula, Echeveria, Haworthia, Sedum, Kalanchoe, Graptopetalum, and Opuntia. They are native to continents including Africa, the Americas, and parts of Asia and Madagascar, occupying deserts, scrublands, and rocky hillsides. Morphologies range from rosettes and layered leaves to columnar stems and sprawling mats.

In cultivation, succulents are popular as ornamental plants and indoor specimens. They prefer well-draining soil, bright light, and infrequent irrigations. Watering should be thorough but infrequent, allowing soil to dry completely between applications; overwatering is a common error. They are generally tolerant of heat and dry air, though some species require protection from frost.

Propagation is usually by leaf or stem cuttings or offsets. Some species, such as Aloe vera, are also valued for medicinal or culinary uses, though others may be toxic to pets.

Conservation concerns exist for several rare or collected species due to habitat loss and illegal gathering. Responsible cultivation—buying from reputable nurseries and avoiding wild collection—helps protect natural populations.