By Gene Shroeder, UC Master Gardener
What are cactus and succulent plants? They are plants that have evolved to develop characteristics that allow them to survive infrequent or minimal amounts of water.
Cactus and succulents can sometimes survive months of drought, or moisture that arrives only as fog or dew. This adaptation always includes a method of preserving water for lean times. This water storage organ may consist of thickened, fleshy stems, roots, or leaves. Plants exhibiting such storage organs are termed succulent. Succulents occur in many plant families and are found naturally in xeric or desert regions of the world.
Members of the cactus family are recognizable to most, but other common succulents such as Agave, Aloes, Euphorbias, and Mesembs (ice plant) are visible in parks and landscapes throughout California. All cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cactus. The combination of striking physical form, outstanding blooms, and general ease of maintenance make them desirable as both landscape plants and container specimens.
Basic care for cactus and succulents
| Topic | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Basic care | Like all plants, succulents require water and light, but they are much less sensitive to adverse conditions than many other plant groups. Careful observation of plant responses will help you recognize when adjustments are needed. |
| Watering | Succulents are water-thrifty by nature. Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then allow the soil to dry almost completely before watering again. Water less during dormancy, usually in winter. Under-watering is generally safer than over-watering. |
| Light | Most succulents require strong light to develop proper form and blooms. Introduce new plants gradually to full sun to prevent sunburn, especially during summer. |
| Ventilation | Good airflow is essential. Succulents do not perform well in terrariums or enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces. |
| Soil mixes | Use fast-draining soil with high porosity. A good mix includes half porous material (pumice, perlite, or decomposed granite) and half organic material (composted bark, coir, or commercial planter mix). |
| Containers | Containers must provide excellent drainage. Terra cotta pots are ideal for beginners. Choose the smallest pot appropriate for the plant—typically 1–2 inches wider than the plant. |
| Fertilizer | Use low-nitrogen fertilizer at very low strength. A balanced fertilizer applied at one-quarter strength during watering is sufficient. |
| Pests | Common pests include mealybugs, scale, and spider mites. Most can be controlled using labeled insecticides applied according to instructions. |
Resources for succulent plant information
Places to visit
- The Leaning Pine Arboretum (Cal Poly campus) — Mediterranean-climate plants and landscape inspiration.
- San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden — Growing collection of succulents and water-wise plants.
- SLO County Education Office — Mature landscaping featuring cacti and succulents.
- Garden of the Seven Sisters — UC Master Gardeners demonstration garden with a succulent section.
- Lotusland — Historic Montecito botanical garden renowned for succulent collections.
Local organizations
- Central Coast Cactus & Succulent Society — Monthly meetings, annual show, and plant sale.
- Montaña de Oro District of California Garden Clubs — Local garden clubs with succulent expertise.
Websites
- Cactus and Succulent Society of America
- Cactus Guide and Succulent Guide
- Desert-Tropicals
- Cactus and Succulent Plant Mall
Books
- Baldwin, Debra Lee. Designing with Succulents. Timber Press, 2007.
- Lyons, Gary. Desert Plants: A Curator’s Introduction to the Huntington Desert Garden. Huntington Library, 2007.
- Lyons, Gary, and Melba Levick. Desert Gardens. Rizzoli, 2000.