Succulents

Not to be confused with cactus; nearly all cacti are succulents but not all succulents are cacti.

Succulents are plants with parts that are thickened, fleshy and engorged, usually to retain water in arid climates or soil conditions. Many succulents are able to thrive in dry conditions, and some are able to last up to two years without water depending on their surroundings and adaptations.

Succulents are favoured as houseplants for their attractiveness and ease of care. If properly potted, succulents require little maintenance to survive indoors.  Succulents are very adaptable houseplants and will thrive in a range of indoor conditions.  For most plant owners, over-watering and associated infections are the main cause of death in succulents.

Succulents are often grown as ornamental plants because of their striking and unusual appearance, as well as their ability to thrive with relatively minimal care. Potted succulents are able to grow in most indoor environments with minimal care.

The habitats of these water preserving plants are often in areas with high temperatures and low rainfall, such as deserts. Succulents have the ability to thrive on limited water sources, such as mist and dew, which makes them equipped to survive in an ecosystem which contains scarce water sources.