Succulents

These succulent tropical plants are not palms, despite their common name, but are related more closely to Nolina spp. They are slow-growing, arborescent plants that develop a large woody caudex, the bulbous area between roots and stem, from which grows a tall trunk that holds numerous long, green strap-like leaves that hang down. Ornamental, long-lived, and adaptable they can live root-bound in containers for years, which makes them suitable to grow across the world as indoor plants. In frost-free environments, they can make attractive, low water, and low maintenance accent plants. Excellent drainage is a must, applying water during warm months only, making sure to avoid wetting the caudex.

These are slow growing arborescent succulents from the island of Madagascar. They form a vertical gray-green colored trunk covered with numerous, sharp dual-patterned spines. At the top of their dramatic spiny trunks grow a cluster of straight, green narrow leaves that have a strong central vein. They will not tolerate frost, so protection from potential cold is important. Because of this, most Pachypodiums are grown primarily in pots that can be moved into protected location during the winter, even in low deserts. They prefer well-drained soils but will benefit from monthly watering while temperatures are warm. Mature plants are known to develop several branches, which adds to their appeal.

Big leafed lady slipper plants grow from a basal clump forming many bright chartreuse colored vertical, snaking stems. These are larger plants than P. macrocarpus Lady Slipper, with the ability to reach 6 or more ft. in height, and they are more easily distinguished by large, oval succulent leaves that grow from the top of each stem. In late summer to fall, their stems are topped with bright orange interesting blooms that take the shape of a lady’s slipper. They tolerate heat and grow well in full shade, which benefits the size and density of the foliage, but will diminish their flowering. As with other Pedilanthus spp., they are not particular of soil type, but do require well-drained soils. They require little to no maintenance during the year. They are popular as wild-looking accent plants for minimalistic mass plantings in the shade. Note that these plants will exude a white milky sap that can be a skin irritation for some, so take care to use gloves when pruning.

Lady slipper, or Slipper plants grow from a basal clump forming many bright chartreuse colored vertical, snaking stems. In late summer to fall, the stems are topped with bright orange blooms that have the appearance of a lady’s slipper, hence the common name. They tolerate heat and drought, but the stems are sensitive to scorch or sunburn from intense western sun or reflected heat. They are not particular of soil type, but do require well-draining soils, as most succulent plants do. In general, they require little to no maintenance during the year. They are popular as wild-looking accent plants for minimalistic mass plantings. Note that they do exude a white milky sap that can be a skin irritation for some, so take care to use gloves when pruning.

Succulent small green leaves on thick sprawling stems. These South African native evergreen plants have a succulent, jade-plant appearance, with thick and succulent stems covered by green spongy round shiny leaves. They have a low mounding to arching growth habit with an interesting and desirable texture that blends well with other shrubs, perennials, ornamental grasses, or accent plants. They also perform well in containers where they are more likely to flower from becoming root bound. They are a bit like a goldfish, growing to fit the container. In the ground they should have well-drained, loose soil and regular watering, especially in summer if they are in full sun. The shadier the location, the less moisture they need.  Plants should have protection from frosts, but if not, they can recover after cutting back damaged stems.

The “African Spear” has similar growing conditions as its succulent cousin, the Snake Plant. However, this sansevieria brings rounded, variegated dark green, tube-like leaves. Designers utilize these unique vertical strokes to contrast against leafier plant foliage in modern landscapes. A striking succulent originally from Angola, Africa, it can grow 7 feet tall. Creeping rhizomes under the soil can slowly create a dense grouping, if space allows. Plant in part to full sun, avoiding the hot afternoon sun. The leaves will not grow as tall or thick in shady conditions. Extremely drought tolerant in the growing season. Over watering will cause root rot. The cylindrica makes a dramatic statement in a landscape or indoors as a potted specimen. An attractive current houseplant trend is to braid the leaves when the plants are young.

Tall, vertical sword-like leaves with wavy, green & silver bands, with delightful golden margins distinguish these Snake Plants from many others. One of the most popular due to their coloration, these plants slowly multiply and offset to create narrow tidy clumps. They are heat tolerant but do not accept full sun easily. They are best used in part sun to filter light or as indoor plants in bright light. Provide loose, well-drained soils with periodic, but infrequent watering. They work well in containers, for patios, entryways, or courtyard plantings in frost-free locations.

The Sansevieria Zeylanica, often called Devil’s Tongue or Bowstring Hemp, is an evergreen succulent plant, growing up to 3 feet tall. It is native to Southeast Asia and can also be found in tropical West Africa. It is particularly common in India and Sri Lanka and is often found growing in rocky areas. Sansevieria zeylanica are not as common as Sansevieria trifasciata, but they are just as bullet-proof and just as stunning. The long sword-like leaves are dark green with wavy lighter green/silver bands. They have rather a rugged, bohemian appearance often with rough, brown edges. Some minor leaf cracking is also common. That’s why they’re considered the snake plant with a wilder side. Drought tolerant and almost indestructible, however they will not take full desert sun. Part sun/shade or early morning sun is best.