Succulents are beautiful.
Cacti and other succulents have a natural architectural grace all their own. You can stare at them for hours and never tire of the endless (even humorous) variety of shapes, curves, and textures.
Succulents are low-maintenance.
They seldom require pruning and always look tidy. They grow so slowly that a planter can look terrific for several years without much work.
Succulents make the perfect gift because many grow well from cuttings.
Whenever summer guests come over, get the scissors out and send them off with a new plant!
Succulents are evergreen.
Many –Echeveria, in particular—develop their most intense foliage colors during winter months, when other plants are dormant or just look drab.
Succulents are take-home plants.
In spring and summer you can buy full-grown plants at the nursery, and your garden's done! Make sure you take any pots you plan to use with you when you go to purchase plants.
Succulents have guts.
Though they can seem "charmingly changeless," don't be fooled by their laid-back demeanor. Come a moment in spring, some will suddenly burst into bloom, like orchid cactus.
Succulents never get lonely—almost.
They need as much water as other plants, but you can love and leave them, and return after vacation to find them looking only a little worse for the wear.
Succulents love you back.
Bring them indoors come winter and situate them properly in sunlight, and they will reward you with sturdy vines by spring.
Succulents promote good health.
Some, like aloe vera, have therapeutic properties in their juices. Snip an aloe vera leaf for its healing juices whenever you want to soothe a cut finger or dry skin.
Images courtesy of © 1997 Faith Echtermeyer