Queen Victoria agave. Photo by: Barb Ries.

Unique for their ability to store water, succulents are well suited for climates with high temperatures and low rainfall. Many people think of them as desert plants, but they also thrive in coastal locales. Gardeners love them for their drought resistance, architectural forms, vivid colors and ease of maintenance. Succulents are especially popular for use in containers.

Whether you need a groundcover or a specimen plant, there is a succulent for every situation. Some form small rosettes, some trail up to 3 feet, while still others grow to resemble small trees. When healthy, many will produce pups or eye-catching blooms. Additionally, they work well in a variety of garden styles including modern, Mediterranean, tropical, rock gardens, xeriscapes and more.

On this page:

PLANTING, CARE & DESIGN

TYPES OF SUCCULENTS

Featured Video

Growing Succulents in Containers

Succulents are a great way to dress up a patio or porch. See how to replant and clean up existing succulent container displays.

BOOKS FROM AMAZON

Learn about gardening with succulents

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