Succulents

The term " Succulents are less well-known in German-speaking countries, even though many living rooms and gardens are decorated with them. To change that, you'll find all the important information about the fascinating topic of succulents here.

The word "succulent" comes from Latin: sucus means "juice," and succulentus means "juicy." This already indicates the special property of these plants: They possess special water-storage tissue that enables them to survive long periods of drought.

To preserve the stored moisture, succulents have special characteristics:

• A thickened, often waxy epidermis that reduces evaporation.

• An additional layer of wax , fluff or felt as protection against intense sunlight and water loss.

Thanks to these characteristics, succulents are true survivors.

The most well-known representatives of the succulent family are cacti. In common parlance, a distinction is often made between cacti and "other" succulents. Cacti, however, are merely one of many plant families with succulent characteristics.

Different plants exhibit convergent evolution as an ecological adaptation. This means that similar traits have evolved independently to adapt to comparable environmental conditions.

Succulence occurs in many plant families, but they all have one thing in common: they are perfectly adapted to survive periods of extreme drought.

You can find an even more detailed (blog) article about what succulents are here . What are succulents? - The basics.

Succulents have the ability to store water due to their adaptation to their natural habitats. However, these habitats vary greatly. They come from deserts and semi-deserts, high mountains, rainforests, and steppe regions. Thus, there are many species that have adapted to different conditions with the same water storage mechanism.

The most well-known succulents, especially cacti, originate from extremely arid regions such as the Atacama Desert or the Sonoran Desert. There, they survive thanks to deep roots that absorb even minimal moisture.

However, many succulents do not thrive in pure sandy deserts, but in semi-deserts , where occasional rainfall or dew provides additional moisture.

Not all succulents originate from hot regions. Species like Sempervivum (houseleek) or hardy Sedum species grow in mountainous areas like the Alps or the Andes. These plants often have a waxy protective layer that protects them from cold and strong UV radiation. These varieties can grow outdoors year-round in our German latitudes and are considered hardy there.

Some succulent species, such as the genera Epiphyllum and Rhipsalis , grow as epiphytes on trees in humid forests. Despite the high humidity, they store water for dry periods.

You can find more detailed information about the natural habitats of succulents here . Blog: Habitats of succulents - where do they grow in nature?

Also on the blog : Where do my succulents come from? - Countries of origin and worldwide distribution

Not all succulents are sensitive to frost. Some can survive even cold winters:

• Sempervivum (Houseleek) : Particularly robust and widespread in Germany.

• Hardy Sedum species : Often also known as stonecrop or stonecrop.

• Agaves, yuccas, opuntias and delosperma : Some species of these genera are also frost-tolerant.

• Protection from moisture : A covered location or a cover protects against waterlogging.

• Good drainage : Avoid waterlogging by ensuring the substrate is permeable.

• Be careful with potted plants : The roots freeze through more quickly in pots. It's best to keep them protected over the winter.

More about hardy succulents on our blog : Hardy succulents - what you need to know!

Succulents have different growth times:

• Summer growers : Active from spring to fall. Examples: Adenium, Echeveria, Euphorbia.

• Winter growers : Active in the cooler months. Examples: Aloe, Sansevieria, and some Sedum species.

• Summer grower : Water regularly from spring to autumn, keep almost dry in winter.

• Winter grower : Keep slightly moist all year round, but avoid waterlogging.

A detailed description of care according to the growth phase can be found here . Blog: Succulent dormancy periods - and what you should keep in mind.

There are a multitude of succulents worldwide – and new species are constantly being discovered. This is why there are also large botanical collections that you can visit. One of the largest – containing around 4,500 species, or roughly 50% of all known succulent plant species – is located in Zurich. Blog : Succulent Collection Zurich – our visit to the largest succulent collection in the world!

Succulents are incredibly diverse and differ not only in size, but also in shape, color and structure.

While many succulents have green leaves, there are also species with unusual shades:

• Red and purple succulents : e.g. Echeveria agavoides 'Romeo' , Sedum spurium 'Dragon's Blood' , Aeonium 'Zwartkop' , which glow particularly intensely.

• Blue and grey succulents : e.g. Senecio serpens , Dudleya pulverulenta , which appear almost silver with their waxy surface.

• Yellow and orange succulents : e.g. Crassula capitella 'Campfire' , Aloe 'Sunset' with bright leaf patterns.

• Multicolored succulents : Some species have a combination of several shades that change depending on the location and sunlight.

Succulents come in a wide variety of growth forms:

• Rosette-shaped succulents : e.g. Echeveria and Sempervivum, which form a symmetrical rosette of leaves.

• Columnar succulents : e.g. various types of cacti or euphorbias that grow upwards.

• Hanging succulents : e.g. Senecio rowleyanus (pea plant) or Ceropegia woodii (candlestick flower), which form long, hanging shoots.

• Cushion-forming succulents : e.g. Sedum and Delosperma , which spread like a carpet and are particularly popular as ground cover.

Many succulents surprise with spectacular flowers:

• Cactus flowers : Often large, brightly colored and open only for a short time.

• Aloe flowers : Grow on long stems in bright red tones.

• Crassula and Kalanchoe flowers : Often small, star-shaped flowers in clusters.

In our blog series "What's Blooming?" we regularly present the most beautiful and bizarre flowers from our greenhouse.

Succulents come in an impressive variety. To identify them more easily, it's helpful to know their parent genus. Here we introduce you to some of the most well-known genera.

Succulence occurs in many plant families, including:

• Agave family (Agavaceae) – e.g. B. Agave

• Affodill family (Asphodelaceae) – e.g. B. Aloe

• Thick-leaved plants (Crassulaceae) – e.g. B. Crassula, Echeveria

• Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) – e.g. B. Euphorbia

• Asparagus family (Asparagaceae) – e.g. B. Sansevieria

To identify succulents, it's helpful to know their parent genus. Here we introduce you to some of the most well-known genera.

• Native to: North America, Central America and northern South America, especially Mexico.

• Use: Agaves are used to produce agave syrup and tequila.

• Features:

  • Store water in the leaves.

  • Leaves are sword-shaped, often with a rough surface.

  • Tip with a piercing terminal thorn.

  • Leaves are arranged in a rosette and can have green or bluish tones.

The Aloe genus belongs to the asphodel family and includes around 450 species. Aloe vera is particularly well-known and is frequently used in cosmetics.

• Home: South and East Africa, Madagascar.

• Features:

  • Lance-shaped, thick leaves with jelly-like sap.

  • Often with serrated leaf edges.

  • Usually grow in rosette form.

  • Known species: Aloe vera, Aloe aristata.

Crassulas belong to the Crassulaceae family and originate from South Africa. They grow in various forms:

• Evergreen shrubs, some low-growing, others growing upwards.

• Most well-known species: Crassula ovata (money tree), an easy-care plant.

• Caution: Reacts sensitively to waterlogging, loses its leaves if there is too much water.

This genus also belongs to the Crassulaceae family and is found primarily in Mexico, Peru, and Texas. Its species are known for their unusual color variations. As a nursery, our focus is on these beautiful rosettes—and their numerous hybrids.

• Features:

  • Leaves usually arranged in rosette shape (diameter from 3 to 60 cm).

  • Partially finely hairy or covered with a layer of wax that protects against drying out.

  • A particularly easy-care and easily propagated species: Echeveria elegans with mint green leaves.

The spurge family (Euphorbia) is a widespread genus that often has a cactus-like appearance.

• Native to: Subtropical regions in Africa, Thailand and Arab countries.

• Features:

  • Contains a white milky sap that can be toxic to humans.

  • They resemble cacti, but have one crucial difference: their thorns are singly or in pairs and not in clusters.

These succulent plants belong to the grass family. They are particularly easy to care for and well-suited for indoor use.

• Around 60 known species.

• Home: South Africa.

• Species with solid leaves prefer shade, others need more light.

• Well-known species: Haworthia retusa , also known as window succulent because its leaves have translucent window zones.

Sansevierias, also known as snake plant or mother-in-law's tongue, belong to the asparagus family.

• Home: Africa, Madagascar, South Asia.

• Perfect houseplant: Robust, easy to care for, air-purifying.

• Features:

  • Tolerates tight pots well and grows better if not repotted too often.

  • Particularly popular: Sansevieria 'Moonshine' with silvery shimmering leaves and dark edges.

Want to delve deeper into the fascinating world of succulents? In our blog series "Succulent of the Month," we introduce you to individual species with detailed information.

In addition to classic succulents, there is a particularly exciting group: Tillandsias , also known as air plants . They require no substrate, as they absorb water and minerals directly through their leaves.

• They grow without soil and can be placed flexibly.

• They purify the air and increase humidity.

• They are non-toxic to pets and children.

More cool air plant facts on our blog : Tillandises - a life of air and love - the special succulents

Since they do not have roots in the classic sense, they require special care:

• Small Tillandsias : Spray with rainwater 2-3 times a week.

• Large Tillandsias (e.g. Tillandsia xerographica) : Immerse in rainwater for 10-15 minutes every 2 weeks.

After dipping, shake well and let it dry in a well-ventilated place to avoid mold.

• A bright place with indirect light is ideal.

• They feel particularly comfortable in a daylight bathroom with regularly high humidity from showering

• Direct midday sun can burn the leaves.

With Tillandsias, you can create creative arrangements – hanging, in glass containers, or simply on decorative wood. You can find more information on care in our blog : Air Plants and Their Care - Everything You Need to Know

Succulents are extremely easy-care plants, making them perfect for beginners and time-poor plant lovers. Because they're adapted to dry locations, they require significantly less water than other plants. However, there are a few important aspects you should keep in mind to keep your succulents healthy and beautiful.

Succulents store water in their leaves and stems, which is why they need to be watered less often than other plants.

Basic rules for watering:

• Better too dry than too wet: Succulents tolerate dry periods better than waterlogging.

• Only water when the substrate is completely dry. A watering break of 5-7 days is usually ideal. Stick a finger or a wooden skewer into the soil – if it feels moist, wait a bit longer.

• Casting method:

  • Ideally, you should water directly onto the substrate and not over the leaves.

  • Remove excess water from the saucer.

• Do not allow water to stand in rosettes or leaf axils. This can lead to rot.

• Thin-leaved succulents need water slightly more often than thick-leaved species.

• Rainwater or decalcified tap water are ideal. If your tap water is too hard, you can treat it with special filters or by boiling it. Rainwater or stale tap water is also ideal for preventing limescale deposits.

• Adjust watering frequency:

  • Summer : Every 5–14 days, depending on temperature and location.

  • Winter dormancy : Every 3–4 weeks or not at all (e.g. cacti that are kept in a bright place at 5°C).

Extra tip: Spraying isn't necessary—except for Tillandsias, which absorb moisture through their leaves. And for unrooted cuttings to reduce transpiration (evaporation of water through the leaf surface).

➡️ You can find out everything about proper watering in our eBook “How to water succulents properly” .

Succulents require little fertilizer, but proper nutrient supply promotes their growth and resilience.

• Frequency: Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring/summer), not or only very rarely in winter.

• Type of fertilizer: Special cactus and succulent fertilizers are best.

• Nutrient composition:

  • Nitrogen (N): Promotes leaf and root growth (low amount recommended).

  • Phosphorus (P): Supports flower formation.

  • Potassium (K): Strengthens cell structure and improves resistance to disease.

  • Magnesium: Helps with nutrient transport.

  • Note the winter dormancy: During the cold season, most succulents do not require fertilizer.

Pasiora Tip: Pay attention to the NPK ratio: Choose a potassium-rich fertilizer with little nitrogen to optimally support the natural growth of the succulents.

Succulents grow slowly, but eventually their pots become too small. When the plant overhangs the rim, becomes unstable due to its height, or seems to be pushing out of the pot, it's time for a new home.

The correct procedure for repotting

What you need:

• A new, slightly larger pot with a drainage hole

• Fresh, well-drained substrate

• Gloves or pliers (for thorny succulents)

• Brush or soft brush (for removing old soil)

Pasiora tip: For an overview, have a look at our annual planner on the blog : Succulent planting - an annual overview - this is the work you have to do with your plants throughout the year

Succulents can be easily propagated using various methods. Here are the most common:

• Some succulents form small offshoots, so-called offshoots, which grow directly from the mother plant.

• As soon as they have their own roots, they can be carefully separated and placed in fresh substrate.

• Cut off a healthy shoot with leaves and let it dry for a few days.

• Then place it in slightly moist substrate and place it in a bright place.

• Carefully separate individual leaves or use leaves that have already fallen.

• Let the cut surface dry for a few days.

• Place on slightly moist substrate until new roots form.

Pasiora tip: Echeverias, Graptopetalums and Pachyphytums are particularly well suited for this method.

You can find more tips and possible methods for propagating succulents on our blog : Propagating Succulents - Guide for Beginners!

Although succulents are resilient, there are some typical pests:

• Small, white animals that suck plant sap.

• Leave behind sticky honeydew.

• Control: Dab with alcohol or use neem oil. Systemic pesticides available from specialist retailers.

• Form fine webs on the leaves.

• Lead to dry spots.

• Control: Higher humidity and biological sprays/acaricides from specialist retailers.

Prevention: Remove dead leaves regularly and check plants for infestation.

Since many succulents are not winter hardy in our German latitudes, they must be protected in colder temperatures.

• Ideal: temperatures between 5 and 12 °C.

• Alternatively: Overwinter at room temperature, but away from heaters.

• Light: Use special plant lamps if natural light is not sufficient.

You can find a large blog series on succulent lighting on our blog: What kind of light do succulents need ? 4 reasons why succulents need additional light during warm wintering. Plant lighting - the most important terms . LUX - the right light intensity for succulents.

• Water lightly only every 3-4 weeks.

• Do not use fertilizer again until spring.

Pasiora tip: Hardy succulents such as Sempervivum or some Sedum species can stay outdoors as long as waterlogging is avoided.

There are also detailed instructions on our blog : Overwintering succulents - this is how it's done!

Further information and exciting information for the start of the growth phase. On our blog : When can my succulents go outside? Spring awakening of houseplants

Succulents are easy to care for and decorative, but some species can be toxic to pets like dogs and cats. You should be especially careful if animals like to nibble on plants. Here you'll learn which succulents are potentially dangerous and what to do in an emergency.

The Euphorbia genus includes many different succulents that contain a toxic, white, milky sap. This can cause severe skin irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact with the eyes can lead to inflammation and, in severe cases, even visual impairment.

Although aloe vera is often used in skin care products, it is unsuitable for pets. The plant contains anthraquinones , which can cause gastrointestinal irritation, cramps, and paralysis.

Important: Commercially available purified aloe juice is non-toxic and even healthy for animals. However, raw aloe leaves should be avoided at all costs!

Some Kalanchoe species contain cardiac glycosides , which can be dangerous for cats. Symptoms of poisoning are generally less common in dogs. Symptoms of poisoning include cardiac arrhythmia, lethargy, vomiting, and convulsions.

The desert rose is a poisonous succulent and can be dangerous to pets and humans. All parts of the plant contain highly toxic alkaloids. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, and coordination problems.

Sansevieria contains saponins , which can cause gastrointestinal disturbances. This primarily manifests as vomiting, diarrhea, and a reluctance to eat or drink. Cats are particularly sensitive to these substances.

If your pet has nibbled on a poisonous succulent and is showing symptoms, you should act quickly:

1. Rinse mouth with water (if plant sap has been ingested).

2. Do not force vomiting!

3. Contact your veterinarian and state the affected plant.

4. Stay calm and observe the animal carefully.

Pasiora Tip: If you have pets, always keep poisonous plants out of reach or avoid potentially dangerous succulents altogether.

Succulents are easy to care for, but sometimes problems arise. Here we answer the most frequently asked questions and offer practical tips to keep your plant healthy. Phrases we hear most often, besides "How do I water my succulent?"

Stretched growth, also called "wild growth," usually occurs when the plant doesn't receive enough light. The distances between the leaves (internodes) become increasingly longer, and the plant loses its compact shape.

Causes:

• Too little light (especially in winter)

• Temperatures too high

• Too much water

Solution:

• Increase light supply: Place the plant in a brighter location or use a plant lamp.

• Adjust temperature: Keep succulents at cooler temperatures (between 5-15°C) in winter to reduce excessive growth.

• Water less: Water only when the substrate is completely dry.

Correction by propagation

If your succulent is already stretched, you can propagate it by head and leaf cuttings :

1. Cutting the top cutting: Cut off the tip with a sharp knife.

2. Prepare leaf cuttings: Remove some lower leaves by gently twisting them.

3. Allow to dry: Allow both the head and leaf cuttings to dry for several days to allow the cut surfaces to heal.

4. Planting:

   • Place the cutting directly into dry substrate and only water after one week.

   • Place leaf cuttings on the soil and spray lightly occasionally.

You can find detailed instructions with pictures on our blog : Help! My succulent is growing too stretched out!

The death of lower leaves is a natural process and does not necessarily mean that your plant has a problem.

When is it normal?

• Stem-forming succulents such as Echeveria or Crassula regularly shed their lowest leaves to make room for new ones.

• As long as the top leaves are healthy, there is no reason to worry.

When is it a problem?

If more leaves die than grow back, it could be due to one of the following factors:

• Too little water: If the soil remains dry for a long time, slightly increased watering can help.

• Pests: Sucking pests like spider mites and mealybugs can particularly damage leaves. Check your plant for fine webs or sticky residue.

Pasiora tip: Remove dead leaves regularly to prevent rot and pest infestation.

Yellow, mushy, or shriveled leaves are often a sign of overwatering and the beginning of root rot .

Causes:

• Too frequent watering

• Too dense, poorly drained soil

• Lack of drainage in the pot

Solution:

1. Take a break from watering: If the soil is still moist, wait until it is completely dry.

2. Save succulents:

   • Light rot: Remove affected leaves and allow the plant to dry thoroughly.

   • Severe rot: Remove the plant from the pot, remove any rotten roots, and plant it in fresh soil. Or, if the stem is already affected, take a cutting.

3. Prevention:

   • Use permeable substrate (cactus soil with sand or perlite).

   • Use pots with drainage holes.

   • Water using the "soak and dry" method: Water thoroughly, then only again when the substrate is completely dry.

If you have further questions or would like to resolve specific issues with your succulent, please visit our Pasiora support page or contact us directly!

Succulents are ideal for creative plant arrangements. To ensure they remain not only visually appealing but also easy to care for, a few important aspects should be considered.

The right choice of succulents

Before you begin assembling your succulent arrangement, consider the location:

• Indoor or outdoor? Indoor succulents generally require less direct sun than outdoor succulents.

• Sun or shade? Some species, like Echeverias, prefer full sun, while Haworthias tolerate shady locations better.

• Hardy or non-hardy succulents? They shouldn't be mixed, as their care requirements vary greatly during the cold season.

Creating harmonious combinations

Succulents with similar leaf thickness should be combined, as they have similar watering needs. This way, you can avoid care problems and your plants will stay healthy longer. Combinations of the following are particularly popular:

• Rosette-shaped succulents (e.g. Echeveria, Sempervivum)

• Hanging succulents (e.g. Senecio, Sedum morganianum)

• Structural succulents (e.g. Aloe, Crassula)

You can find more information and creative ideas for succulent arrangements here. Blog : Arranging succulents - what you should keep in mind!

Succulents are perfect for creative DIY projects. Here are some inspiring ideas:

• Easter decoration : Place succulent cuttings in moss-filled eggshells. Blog : DIY Easter decoration: Easter eggs with succulent cuttings

• Autumn pumpkin decorating : Covering a pumpkin with moss and succulent plants. Blog : Autumn decorating with succulents - Hello Pumpkin!

• Christmas table decorations : Arrange small succulents in miniature pots with decorative sand and lights. Use them for the Advent season or as ornaments on the Christmas tree.

• Vertical succulent garden : Plant an old picture frame and hang it on the wall.

• Succulent terrariums : Decorate glass containers with decorative stones, moss, and succulents.

• Miniature succulent landscapes : Create small desert landscapes with cacti and succulents in shallow bowls.

The advantage: After the season, cuttings can simply be put back into soil and cultivated further.

Check out our favorite project here !

Succulents are not only a great choice for the home – they are also a real eye-catcher at weddings and have a wide range of uses.

• Mini succulents as party favors : Perfect as place cards with name tags.

• Bridal bouquet & corsage : Succulents harmonize beautifully with classic flowers.

• Table decoration with succulents : arranged in small glasses or on wooden discs.

• Cake decoration : Non-toxic succulents as stylish cake decoration.

A big advantage: guests (and the bride and groom themselves) can take the succulents home as a souvenir and enjoy them for a long time.

On our blog you will also find various inspirations for wedding decorations with succulents!

In addition to their decorative function, some succulents are edible. The most well-known examples are:

• Dragon fruit (Pitahaya) : The fruits of the Hylocereus cactus are popular worldwide.

• Prickly pear : Obtained from the fruits of the prickly pear cactus.

• Opuntia leaves (Nopales) : Popular as a vegetable in Mexico.

The sweet and sour prickly pears can be used in many ways:
Here you will find an overview of delicious recipe ideas for prickly pears!

• Prickly pear puree : Puree the pulp and use it as a base for smoothies or yogurt.

• Prickly pear jam : Boil with sugar and enjoy as a spread on bread.

• Prickly pear lemonade : A refreshing summer drink with lemon juice and mineral water.

• Prickly Pear Mojito : For an exotic cocktail variation.

Tip: Peel the fruits carefully as they contain fine thorns.

Are you passionate about succulents and looking for the most beautiful specimens for your home or collection? Then discover our diverse selection in this online shop!

We offer a wide selection of colorful succulents—from classic rosettes to exceptional rarities. You'll also find everything you need for optimal care: healthy cuttings, stylish planters, the perfect substrate, high-quality fertilizer, and practical accessories.

Stop by and get inspired—your next favorite plant is waiting for you! 💚