Succulent Care Guide

Succulents are some of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow indoors. Known for their fleshy leaves, compact forms, and incredible drought tolerance, they come in an extraordinary range of shapes and textures. Whether you love the architectural forms of Aloe and Sansevieria or trailing types like String of Pearls, there’s a succulent to suit every style and space.

Plant Profile

Succulent Light requirements
Succulents love sunshine. Bright, direct light for at least part of the day will keep them compact and colourful. A sunny windowsill is ideal—especially for species like Aloe vera, Kalanchoe orgyalis, or Crassula marnieriana. Insufficient light may cause stretching (etiolation), where the plant grows leggy and pale.

Succulent Watering
Less is more. Water thoroughly only when the soil is bone dry, then allow all excess to drain away. Overwatering is the main killer of succulents. In winter, watering may only be needed every few weeks. Trailing types like String of Pearls are particularly sensitive to soggy roots.

Succulent Repotting
Most succulents prefer being slightly pot-bound and only need repotting every 2–3 years. Use a very gritty, free-draining soil mix. Choose a pot with drainage holes, and consider a terracotta pot to help wick away moisture.

Succulent Native habitat
Succulents come from dry, arid environments like deserts and rocky outcrops across Africa, the Americas, and Asia. Their fleshy leaves store water to survive long periods without rain, and they’re adapted to full sun, strong airflow, and excellent drainage.

Styling ideas for Succulents
Succulents work beautifully in small clusters or minimalist arrangements. Use geometric pots for modern spaces, or place a tall Sansevieria beside a desk for a bold statement. Trailing types like String of Rubies look stunning spilling over the edges of shelves or hanging planters.

Wellness benefits of houseplants, like Succulents
Succulents offer all the benefits of houseplants with minimal effort. Their low-maintenance nature is perfect for busy routines, and they bring a calm, grounding presence to a room. Watching them thrive in dry conditions can also be oddly empowering—especially for beginners.

Common Succulent problems

• Shrivelling leaves: Likely underwatered. Give a deep soak and adjust watering frequency.

• Soft, mushy leaves: A sign of overwatering. Check for root rot.

• Stretching (etiolation): Caused by insufficient light.

• Leaf drop: Sudden changes in temperature or excess water can trigger leaf loss.

Quick care summary

FAQs

How often should I water my succulent?
Wait until the soil is fully dry—this could be every 10–21 days, depending on the season and light levels.

Can I grow succulents in low light?
Not really. Most succulents need high light to stay compact and colourful. Move them to a bright window for best results.

Do succulents like humidity?
No—succulents prefer dry air. High humidity can lead to rot, especially in trailing varieties.

Can succulents grow in terrariums?
Closed terrariums are too humid, but open glass bowls with gritty soil and good airflow can work well.

Why choose this plant?
Succulents are perfect for beginners or anyone seeking low-maintenance beauty. With incredible variety—from quirky textures to rich colours—they bring sculptural interest to even the smallest spaces. Whether you love the trailing elegance of String of Pearls or the architectural flair of Aloe vera, there’s a succulent to match every mood.

Featured Succulents from Happy Houseplants

Aloe vera (Small)
A timeless succulent with medicinal properties and striking form. Perfect on a bright windowsill or desk.
Shop Aloe vera

Kalanchoe ‘Copper Spoons’
Unusual paddle-shaped leaves with a warm copper tone. Adds instant texture and warmth.
View Kalanchoe orgyalis

Explore more

Want to learn more about desert-loving plants? Read our cactus and succulent care blog or explore our full houseplant collection. And if you're gifting, remember—you can always include a free personal message at checkout.