Inspiration
The world of succulents is a trove of extraordinary species with a resilient character—a unique combination of form and fortitude that makes them ideal for creative presentation
Discover creative ways to showcase succulents in your home
The unique beauty of succulents makes them one of the most intriguing family of plants. These fascinating and sometimes bizarre-looking plants get their name from the Latin word ‘sucus’, meaning juice or sap; the sap stored in their thick, fleshy parts help the plants retain water and nutrients in extreme conditions.
NATURAL CURIOSITIES
Commonly known as desert or semi-desert plants, succulents originate from Central and South America, the European Alps and Africa, with South Africa being particularly rich in diversity—there are over 60 families of succulents comprising over 10,000 varieties. Early botanists and naturalists were fascinated by their extraordinary forms and ability to survive in extreme habitats; a trend that can be traced back to the Victorian era, which saw a public frenzy for curious and exotic fauna and flora. From thereon, succulents have been prized as ornamental plants in the home. Its popularity endures even until today—the soft green hues of a collection of succulents and the organic warmth of terracotta and stone result in an enticing juxtaposition with modern interiors and architecture.
WARM WELCOME
Ensure indoor plants have access to a few hours of sunlight a day and display groupings of succulents with different profiles and hues. Vary the sizes, heights and shapes of your containers too, for a sense of layering and visual intrigue. Rustic terracotta pots are fitting containers for succulents. The subtle imperfections and the weathered appearance of these pots are also on-trend, reflecting our yearning for authenticity and an appreciation of artisanal crafts in our homes.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY
An element of greenery with organic forms creates a focal point in a dining room, enhancing a sense of calm and providing a splash of colour that uplifts the neutral finishes.
LEFT TO RIGHT: The Haworthiopsis attenuata (also known as the Zebra plant) and the Astroloba rubriflora, which features a crystalline pattern on its leaves
SMALL WONDER
This miniature succulent garden has been planted to represent the vegetation in an area near Cederberg, an eco-zone in the Western Cape of South Africa that’s known for its indigenous flora and fauna. The rocks are quartzitic sandstone.
OPPOSITE PAGE The potted plants pictured include the Crassula perforata (also known as String of buttons), Aloe pictifolia, Odontophorus nanus, Crassula intermedia and Conophytum pearsonii