Succulents are plants that store water in their tissues, enabling them to live in severe environments like deserts. Many thrive in full sun. Once some succulents become accustomed to a low-light environment, they can remain there indefinitely as long as they are cared for properly. Because they retain moisture in their thick foliage, succulents require soil that drains well and less water than typical houseplants.
1. Mason's Congo (Sansevieria masoniana)
Originating in central Africa, Mason's Congo can grow up to 5 feet (1.5 m) tall and 2 feet (60 cm) wide. As an indoor plant, it requires little light or water. Its wide dark-green leaf stalks are covered with light green spots, providing a statement in any office, and the plant is simple to maintain.
Mason's Congo is hardy outdoors in USDA hardiness zone 10.
2. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Jade Plant is a popular indoor plant. It requires minimal watering. This plant is known in Japanese folklore as the Money Plant, and according to legend, it can lead to financial success. The thick trunk and branches give this plant a tree-like look, similar to a bonsai tree. If planted outdoors, Jade Plant is considered a perennial succulent, thriving in sunlight to partial shade in areas where it is hardy, USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11a.
3. Gasteria
Gasterias grow well indoors. Like Aloes, Gasterias have long, spiny, green leaves that grow in a rosette or spiral form. The leaves are spear-shaped and, as true with all succulents, swollen with water-storing tissue. Gasteria is named for its stomach-shaped flowers. The largest Gasteria grows up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall. These succulents are hardy outdoors in USDA hardiness zone 11 in sandy soil.
4. Zebra Plant (Haworthiopsis fasciata, formerly known as Haworthia fasciata)
Zebra Plant does not take up much room and needs even less care. It is the perfect succulent for busy lives. Hailing from South Africa, plants perch on soil and sport a tidy form with leaves that boast striking horizontal white stripes. Zebra Plant is hardy outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11.
5. Aloe Vera
Perhaps the most commonly known succulent is Aloe vera. It can be grown in low-light environments, although it thrives in sunlight. Aloe vera is hardy outdoors in USDA hardiness zone 9.
Source: sfgate.com
Links
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus