All About Succulents:
An Itty Bitty Spotlight

Succulents, cacti, and air plants are all unique types of plants with distinct characteristics:

Succulents: As previously mentioned, succulents are a group of plants known for their water-storing capabilities. They have thick, fleshy leaves or stems that have adapted to store water, allowing them to thrive in arid conditions and environments. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors and are found all over the world.

Cacti: Cacti are a specific type of succulent. All cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti. Cacti are distinguished by the presence of areoles, small cushion-like structures from which spines, new branches, and even flowers grow. They are typically found in harsh desert environments and are well-adapted to extremely dry and hot conditions.

Air Plants (Tillandsias): Air plants are a genus of plants within the bromeliad family. What makes air plants unique is that they do not require soil to grow. Instead, they absorb water and nutrients through their leaves from the air and rainfall. They are epiphytic, meaning they naturally grow on trees or rocks rather than in soil. Most air plants originate from the South and Central American forests, deserts, and mountains. Unlike succulents and cacti, air plants typically require more humidity and indirect light.

Each of these plant types has adaptations suited to their natural habitats, and they can all make interesting and relatively low-maintenance additions to an indoor or outdoor garden, provided their specific care requirements are met.

Identifying a succulent from other types of plants mainly involves recognizing certain key characteristics that are unique to succulents. Here are some pointers to help you distinguish succulents:

• Fleshy, thick leaves or stems: This is the most recognizable feature of succulents. The leaves or stems are often swollen and appear engorged, thanks to their ability to store water. Some have rounded leaves, while others might have flat or concave leaves depending on the species.
• Compact shape: Many succulents have a compact shape with leaves close to the stem, which helps reduce their surface area and water loss.
• Waxy or glossy coating: To further prevent water loss, succulents often have a waxy or glossy coating on their leaves or stems. This coating, known as a cuticle, can also make the plant appear blue or gray in color.
• Vivid colors: While not exclusive to succulents, they often come in a variety of vibrant colors that change depending on sunlight, temperature, and water availability.
• Root structure: Succulents typically have shallow, spreading roots designed to absorb water rapidly over a wide area.
• Pores or “stomata”: Succulents, especially those from hot environments, have their stomata (pores used for gas exchange) open only at night to minimize water loss during the hot day. While this is not a visually identifiable trait, it’s a distinctive physiological characteristic of succulents.

Remember that while these traits are common to many succulents, there’s a wide variety of succulents with different appearances. If you’re unsure, bring it by and let our team at Itty Bitty Trees take a look.

Taking care of succulents can be relatively easy given their low maintenance needs. However, they do have certain specific requirements that help them thrive which can greatly carry by species. Here are some  general tips to help you care for your itty bitty succulent babies:

• Sunlight: Most succulents need a good amount of sunlight. A few hours of direct sunlight each day is ideal, although the exact amount can vary by species. Be careful of intense sunlight, though, as it can scorch the leaves. If you’re keeping your succulents indoors, a sunny window is a great location.
• Watering: Succulents store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, which allows them to go long periods between waterings. However, when you do water them, you should water them thoroughly, letting the water drain out of the pot. Wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again to prevent root rot.
• Soil: Succulents require well-draining soil to prevent water-logging. Many garden centers sell soil specifically made for succulents and cacti. You can also make your own by mixing potting soil with something to increase drainage, such as perlite, sand, or gravel.
• Pot: Always use a pot with a drainage hole to ensure excess water can escape. Overwatering and poor drainage are the quickest ways to kill succulents.
• Temperature: Succulents usually prefer cooler nights and warmer days, similar to desert climates. Most succulents can tolerate a range of temperatures, but extreme cold or heat could be harmful.
• Propagation: Many succulents are easy to propagate. This can often be done by using a leaf or stem cutting, allowing it to callus over a few days, and then planting it in well-draining soil.
• Pests: Keep an eye out for common pests such as mealybugs and aphids. If you notice your succulent looking unhealthy or see small bugs on the leaves or in the soil, you may need to take action to remove the pests.

Remember, different succulents have different care needs, so it’s always a good idea to research the specific care requirements for the type of succulent you have.