Succulents (a group which includes all
our favorite cacti) come in all textures, sizes, and shapes. They’re unique plants that are easy to grow both indoors as houseplants and outdoors in your garden (Here’s our complete succulent growing guide.)
Many have striking flowers that make them even more appealing to grow. Because they retain moisture in their fleshy leaves, stems, and roots, they don’t need to be watered as often as many other plants. That makes them ideal for new plant parents or if you’re, ahem, a wee bit forgetful about watering! (Here are some other low-maintenance flowers for the lazy gardener.)
The biggest challenge with succulents is giving them the right conditions. They need tons of bright light indoors, so you may need a grow light if you don’t have sufficient natural light. Outdoors, most succulents enjoy full sun, which is typically 6 or more hours of direct sunlight per day. But always read the plant tag or description to be sure you’re giving your plant the light it requires.
Above all, remember that, just like cacti succulents do not tolerate being overwatered and will quickly turn to mush if you water them too frequently. Give succulents a drink only when the soil is mostly dry. Before watering, stick your finger in the soil; if it feels damp and soil sticks to your finger, hold off and recheck in another few days. It’s generally better to err on the side of too dry, rather than too wet when it comes to these plants. (Ready for more? Here’s how to propagate your succulents.)
Ahead, our favorite flowering succulents for your home and garden:
