Succulents

While many people think of cacti, or succulents, as growing only in the desert you might be surprised to learn that it can make an interesting addition to your own garden. Furthermore, succulents encompass a much broader range of plants than just cactus plants. Because these plants have the ability to store water in their stems and leaves they are excellent choices for drought laden areas.

While cacti certainly make up an extremely large group of the succulent family, there are numerous other types of succulents which do not contain prickly spines at all. Succulent plants can be classified into three major groups; those with leaves, those with stems and another group that is known as caudiciforms. The traditional cactus plant that so many of us are accustomed to seeing in desert regions is a stem succulent. Aloes, known for their healing properties, are fine examples of leaf succulents. Caudiciforms contain a base that is swollen for the purpose of water storage. The ponytail palm is an example of a caudiciform.

If you’re considering adding succulents to your garden, it is usually best to begin with cacti and then branch out from there. Numerous varieties of cacti are quite easy to grow, even for beginners. One of the best varieties of cacti to start out with if you haven’t grown succulents before is the hedgehog cactus. This plant does not have a lot of complicated needs. They enjoy a warm sunny spot during spring and summer and should only be watered when they need it. During the winter months they must be kept dry but above and beyond this they do not need a lot.

For those of you who like something with a few blooms, be sure to consider a mammillaria. With proper care, this plant will provide you with blooms every year. There are actually many different types of mammillaria; all of which are native to the Southwest, Central and South America.

As you gain some experience you might also want to consider a Queen of the Night plant. This succulent is so named because it blooms only at night. The fragrance of the blooms is similar to vanilla. Like most other easy to grow succulents, the Queen of the Night does not require a lot of complicated care. Be aware; however, that you may need to either provide a way for the plant to climb or leave it to hang

 
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