Succulents are some of my favorite plants. As a plant biology nerd, I thought I'd share some brief information about them! ₊˚ʚ 🌱 ₊˚✧ ﾟ.
What are succulents?
Succulent are plants that have thickened leaves, stems, etc, that are fleshy and bloated (usually in order to preserve water in its proper conditions to thrive off of longer than other plants). Cacti are a sub-category of succulents.
Fun Fact #1: Size Matters!
Unlike some plants, a succulent may be smaller or larger depending on the location when healthy. For example, a succulent should have smaller leaves when in higher elevated areas. Whether it be the desert or somewhere completely opposite, size matters when it comes to the succulent's performance & wellbeing!
Fun Fact #2
Succulents have many great uses! The most common type is Aloe Vera. The gel from Aloe succulent makes a great healing property. You can apply it to your skin for minor cuts and scrapes, or you can also use it as a facial cleanser.
You can also even consume some succulents! Fruits such as Dragonfruit and Nopales!
(Aloe vera is also used for food / drinks, and various cultural + spiritual practices!)
Fun Fact #3
Over 60 families
There are more than 60 succulent families!
10,000 varieties
Additionally, there's approximately 10,000 succulent plant varieties known! This includes cacti, aloe, and many more!
Fun Fact #4
Succulents come in a variety of shapes, colors and textures!
Some are super soft, some are more rigid. Some are pink, some are green, some are purple or blue! There's also reds, oranges, and other colors.
More than just leaves
This beautiful diversity is seen not only in the leaves of the plant, but also in the base, the bloom, everywhere! And, can differ depending on environment.
Fun Fact #5
Not only are succulents one of the easiest plants to grow because of how self-sustaining they are, but they're actually recommended for beginners who don't have a natural green thumb. You have to try to kill a succulent!
Fun Fact #6: Pest Resistant
Succulents can be extremely pest resistant! Having various insects mess with your succulent is actually a very uncommon occurrence, depending on the variety of the plant.
Fun Fact #7: Make a statement!
Succulents can actually be used for jewelry! Whether it be sticking them on a bracelet or having them grow over a necklace, succulents can be great for your fashion needs due to how low-maintenance and unneedy the plant naturally is.
(Succulents can also be used in resin creations!)
Fun Fact #8
These plants are survivors! They can grow through hardy conditions, such as dry and hot environments, extremely cold climates, and almost any severe temperature. Whether they're cacti or not, many can even thrive through snow, and many have natural sun protection. This means that they can grow in nearly any part of the U.S. as well as other countries!
Fun Fact #9
Succulents can disguise themselves
There are several types of succulents that are able to disguise themselves to stay safe from animals. The most common succulent, Cacti is easily able to protect itself with its sharp needle like spines, but some succulents can hide in plain sight.
Lithops are refered to as "Living Stones" because they resemble stones. Therefore when predators come across it, they have no interest.
Succulents are powerful, beautiful plants.
Thanks for learning these fun facts about succulents! I hope you enjoyed, and please stay tuned for more cool info-posts!
