#4 In bloom
Succulents are usually cultivated for their waterwise characteristics, interesting foliage shapes and striking colours that look good throughout the year. But have you considered their pretty flowers?
Like any other flowering plant, different succulents bloom at different times of the year – some more often than others and some more abundantly or spectacularly. In the depth of winter, certain aloes and the delicate Crassula multicava provide much-needed colour, while vygies put on a breathtaking display in spring.
Succulents have the advantage of being able to continue flowering and thriving despite little water and extended dry spells. In addition, if you give them the right care, succulents are long-lived, producing blooms year after year. (See tips on page 99.)
Plant guide Common name Fairy crassula Botanical name
Crassula multicava
Fairy crassula bears dainty, starshaped white and pink flowers on stalks carried above the foliage. This is one of the few succulents suitable for shade, making it an ideal groundcover under trees. Indigenous Grows 10–20cm tall Flowers from late winter to spring
Prefers shade but can also be grown in the sun
Plant guide Botanical name
Calandrinia spectabilis
This perennial succulent, which originates in Chile, boasts magenta blooms on long stems carried above the leaves in summer. Full sun Grows about 30–45cm tall Attracts bees and butterflies Excellent groundcover
Plant guide Botanical name
Kalanchoe ‘Tessa’
This evergreen perennial succulent bears orange-red tubular flowers that provide a showy display in pots and hanging baskets. It grows easily from cuttings.
Flowers from late winter to spring
Grows about 30cm tall and 0.1–0.5m wide Needs well-drained soil Full sun to semi-shade