When the pandemic first hit, it seemed like everyone and their mother suddenly developed a green thumb. Social media feeds were flooded with photos of lush indoor jungles and #plantparent posts. But alas, for many, the hobby was short-lived.
But if you’re still eager to dip your toes into the world of gardening without all the stress, succulents are the perfect place to start.
Not only are they adorable, but they’re also incredibly low-maintenance compared to their finicky foliage counterparts. Here’s 11 succulents that are great for beginners.
1. Zebra Plant (Haworthia fasciata)
The zebra plant is a striking succulent with thick, dark green leaves adorned with white, zebra-like stripes. This low-maintenance plant is perfect for beginners, as it’s not only easy to care for but also resistant to pests.
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It thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil, making it a hassle-free addition to your succulent collection.
2. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Jade plants are common, low-maintenance succulents that thrive in bright, indirect light. Be careful not to overwater, as they are prone to root rot. With their glossy green leaves and tree-like appearance, they bring a touch of zen to your home.
3. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
This medicinal plant not only soothes burns and wounds but also makes a stunning houseplant. Aloe vera prefers bright light and infrequent watering, making it an ideal choice for forgetful plant parents.
4. Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)
Also known as donkey’s tail, this trailing succulent is perfect for hanging baskets. Its long, plump leaves break off easily, making propagation a breeze. Give it plenty of sun and well-draining soil for optimal growth.
5. Echeveria (Echeveria spp.)
With their mesmerizing rosette shapes and pastel hues, echeverias are a must-have for any succulent collection. They require bright light and infrequent watering, thriving in unglazed clay pots that allow for better evaporation.
6. Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata, formerly Sansevieria trifasciata)
Snake plants are virtually indestructible, tolerating low light and infrequent watering. Their tall, upright leaves make a bold statement in any room while purifying the air.
7. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
This quirky succulent features long, trailing stems with round, bead-like leaves. It’s resistant to pests and low-maintenance, requiring bright light and occasional watering. Perfect for adding a whimsical touch to shelves or hanging baskets.
8. Panda Plant (Kalanchoe tomentosa)
Panda plants are characterized by their fuzzy, grayish-green leaves with chocolate-brown tips. Native to Madagascar, they love the dry winter air in heated homes and require minimal watering.
9. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii))
This cactus is actually quite low-maintenance and beginner-friendly. It prefers indirect light and occasional watering, rewarding you with stunning blooms in shades of pink, red, or white during the holiday season.
10. Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum spp.)
These hardy succulents can survive extreme temperatures, making them perfect for outdoor rock gardens or indoor containers. They multiply quickly, producing small offsets or “chicks” around the main plant.
11. Haworthia (Haworthia spp.)
Related to aloes, haworthias are small, slow-growing succulents with intriguing leaf patterns. They tolerate low light and neglect, making them ideal for beginners or those with busy lifestyles.
Embarking on your succulent journey has never been easier with these 11 succulents for beginners. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening gloves, and get ready to watch your green thumb blossom.
Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.