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Succulents

and other Xeriphytic Plants

Succulents, with their fleshy leaves or stems, are an easily-recognised group of xeriphytes (or xerophytes) which are plants adapted to withstand prolonged periods with little water. This group has become very popular recently as many parts of the world face increasing watering restrictions and declining gardening skills.

Their interesting "architectural" forms work well with contemporary building design. However, they could be very usefully incorporated into a more traditional garden if most of the succulents used are of the softer and prettier types and mixed in with other plants. Some bold types can be blended with drought tolerant palms, strelitzia and such for a waterwise tropical landscape.

Note, however, that they do have a lot of weed potential, reproducing readily from small pieces and surviving harsh conditions. Some are already recognised as weeds.

News

Biosecurity Comes Calling

Backyard growers on the Sunshine Coast have had over 1,000 banned plants (mostly cacti) seized and destroyed. "Our staff, together with Sunshine Coast Regional Council officers have been on the lookout for people selling illegal plants either online or through local markets," said Biosecurity Queensland Operations Manager Rob Cobon. If you're aware of someone growing or selling illegal plants, you can alert Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23. Source: Biosecurity Queensland and Sunshine Coast Council target illegal weeds in backyard nurseries. (January, 2020)

Suppliers of succulents to Qld

Succulents are now so popular that most regular garden centres can be expected to carry an assortment. However, if you're looking for something in particular, especially if a rare species, you might need to seek out a specialist nursery or look out for succulents for sale at garden shows, open gardens etc.

If you operate a succulent nursery (including online and mail order nurseries) or you promote or distribute unusual succulent plants or related products, please get in touch for information about advertising on this page.

Types of succulents

Euphorbia species

Aptenia

xGraptosedum

Kalanchoe

Portulacaria

Portulaca

Senecio

Stapelia

Some Others

Other Online Information

Additional links about other species or about succulents in general are provided below. They are intended for general information, design ideas and research. Some plants referred to in links may be unavailable in Australia or even illegal to grow. Many heat and drought tolerant plants have considerable potential to become weeds (remember the prickly pear cactus!), so take care. If in doubt, consult appropriate authorities in your region.

Older News

Climate key to cactus diversity

Genomic anaysis suggests that while the Cactus family probably emerged some 35 million years ago, rapid diversification did not occur until between 5 and 10 million years ago. This coincides with major periods of speciation in other succulents around the world, suggesting a major change in global climate at that time. The scientists think that a drop in temperature (indicated by other studies) led to reduced rainfall. It is also possible that a drop in atmospheric CO2 may have also given the succulents a competitive advantage. Tropical grasses with the C4 mode of photosynthesis also expanded at this time. Source: Succulent plants waited for cool, dry Earth to make their mark (May 2011)

ALERT: Cactus growers and traders under threat

All Australians, especially anyone who grows or handles plants, should be aware of proposals from the federal government to expand the list of species to be banned or regulated due to alleged drug dangers. A variety of Australian natives and common garden exotics could potentially be banned, in addition to many cactus species. The website gardenfreedom.com provides more information on this issue, including how you can have your say.