Complete Gardening
Succulents are a diverse group of plants known for their ability to store water, making them ideal for dry climates and low-maintenance gardening. While many succulents can be propagated easily from cuttings, some offer the rewarding challenge of growing from seed. This guide details 15 succulents that thrive when started from seed, as well as 5 that are better purchased as mature plants due to their slow growth or specific care requirements.
1. Lithops (Living Stones)
Lithops, or Living Stones, are a marvel of nature, blending seamlessly into their rocky surroundings. These slow-growing succulents require patience but offer a fascinating growth cycle. Starting from seed, they germinate within 1-3 weeks under the right warmth and light conditions. The journey of watching them mimic stones is both rewarding and mesmerizing. As they mature, Lithops develop their unique, stone-like appearance, offering a touch of nature’s artistry to any collection.
2. Echeveria
Echeveria is beloved for its vibrant rosettes and diverse hybrid options. Growing from seed provides an opportunity to explore these many hybrids, each with its unique charm. Though it takes 6-12 months for Echeveria to form their signature rosettes, the payoff is a stunning display of colors and patterns. This succulent appeals to both seasoned gardeners and novices alike, offering a satisfying and colorful addition to any collection.
3. Haworthia
Small but mighty, Haworthia are perfect for those who appreciate detail in their greenery. Easy to start from seed, they are ideal for terrariums and small pots. Their slow-growing nature means they require little maintenance, making them a favorite among indoor gardeners. With unique patterns and a compact form, Haworthia adds elegance and character to any plant collection.
4. Sedum (Stonecrop)
Sedum, or Stonecrop, is a hardy succulent that thrives from seed. Known for being fast-growing relative to other succulents, some Sedum varieties sprout in just 10 days. Their resilience makes them ideal for gardeners seeking a quick, rewarding plant to grow. These plants adapt well to various environments, showcasing their vibrant foliage and sometimes blooming with delicate flowers, adding color and life to any garden.
5. Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe, particularly species like K. blossfeldiana, is a favorite for its rapid growth and stunning blooms. Growing from seed allows gardeners to witness the transformation from tiny sprouts to vibrant flowering plants within a year. Kalanchoe’s colorful blooms bring joy and vibrancy, making them a delightful addition to indoor and outdoor spaces. Their ability to adapt to various conditions adds to their appeal.
6. Aloe (Certain Species)
Aloe, including popular species like Aloe vera, sprouts reliably from seed. Though it takes 1-2 years for these succulents to reach a usable size, the wait is worthwhile for their healing properties and aesthetic appeal. Aloe’s robust nature and distinctive form make it a versatile plant for both medicinal and decorative purposes. Whether grown for its soothing gel or its striking silhouette, Aloe is a valuable addition to any collection.
7. Sempervivum (Hens & Chicks)
Sempervivum, commonly known as Hens and Chicks, is celebrated for its cold-hardy nature and ease of growth from seed. These succulents quickly form offsets after germination, creating charming clusters. Their ability to thrive in various climates makes them a resilient choice for gardeners seeking a plant with both beauty and tenacity. Sempervivum’s unique growth pattern and adaptability offer endless possibilities for creative garden displays.
8. Adenium (Desert Rose)
The Desert Rose, or Adenium, captivates with its unique caudex and vibrant blooms. From seed, the caudex begins to form early, marking the start of its intriguing journey. Blooming in 2-3 years, Adenium offers a spectacle of beauty and endurance. Its ability to thrive in arid conditions makes it an excellent choice for those in dry climates. The Desert Rose stands as a testament to nature’s resilience and artistry.
9. Crassula (Jade Plant & Others)
Crassula, including the well-known Jade Plant, grows steadily from seed and offers a diverse range of shapes. Each variety brings its own unique charm, with some developing intriguing forms early in their growth. Crassula’s adaptability and low-maintenance needs make it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners. Their vibrant green hues and sculptural qualities add a touch of elegance to any space.
10. Fenestraria (Baby Toes)
Fenestraria, or Baby Toes, is a quirky succulent known for its window-like leaves. These intriguing plants germinate in 2-4 weeks, offering a fascinating glimpse into their unique growth process. Baby Toes thrive in well-drained soils and bright light, making them a delightful addition to any succulent collection. Their unusual appearance and compact size provide both visual interest and a conversation piece.
11. Conophytum
Conophytum, small yet charming, quickly germinates from seed within 1-2 weeks. Known for forming pebble-like clusters, these succulents add a playful touch to any collection. Their compact size and low-maintenance requirements make them ideal for indoor gardens or small spaces. Conophytum’s unique growth patterns and subtle hues provide a soothing and aesthetically pleasing addition to any plant enthusiast’s home.
12. Gasteria
Gasteria, with its slow-growing and low-maintenance qualities, is perfect for patient gardeners. Known for their textured leaves, these succulents add a touch of intrigue to any collection. Though slow to mature, Gasteria’s unique leaf patterns and resilience make them a rewarding choice. They thrive in shaded areas, adding visual interest without demanding high maintenance. Gasteria is a testament to the beauty of nature’s subtler designs.
13. Graptopetalum
Graptopetalum is a rosette-forming succulent known for its rapid growth from seed. Some hybrids display color variations early, offering a dynamic and visually captivating addition to gardens. Their robust nature and adaptability make Graptopetalum a favorite among gardeners seeking a versatile and colorful plant. With their striking appearance and fast growth, these succulents bring life and vibrancy to any setting.
14. Pachyphytum
Pachyphytum, recognized for its chubby leaves, develops rapidly from seed. Once established, these succulents are drought-tolerant, making them ideal for water-wise gardening. Their plump leaves and compact growth form add a playful yet elegant touch to any collection. Pachyphytum’s resilience and charming appearance make them a delightful choice for both novice and experienced gardeners seeking an easy-care plant with visual appeal.
15. Delosperma (Ice Plant)
Delosperma, or Ice Plant, is known for its rapid growth and vibrant flowers. This succulent grows quickly from seed, providing a stunning ground cover with its bright, cheerful blooms. Delosperma’s ability to thrive in sunny, well-drained areas makes it a popular choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet visually impactful plant. Its colorful display and hardy nature offer a brilliant addition to landscapes and gardens.
1. Agave
Agave, while striking, is best bought as a mature plant due to its lengthy growth process. Taking 5-10 years to reach a decent size, growing Agave from seed requires patience and space. Some species are monocarpic, meaning they die after flowering, making them a less practical choice for seed starting. However, their dramatic presence and architectural form make them a favorite in desert-style landscaping.
2. Sansevieria (Snake Plant)
Sansevieria, known as Snake Plant, is incredibly slow to mature from seed, often taking years. Instead, it is more efficiently propagated from leaf cuttings or pups, offering quicker results. Its upright, sword-like leaves make it a popular choice for indoor environments, adding both style and air-purifying benefits. Sansevieria’s resilience and low maintenance needs make it a staple for busy individuals seeking a no-fuss greenery option.
3. Euphorbia (Some Types, Like Euphorbia trigona)
Euphorbia, including types like Euphorbia trigona, is better acquired as a mature plant due to its slow growth rate. These succulents can take decades to reach full height, making seed starting an impractical choice for many. Their striking, vertical growth and unique form add interest to any garden or indoor space. Euphorbia’s ease of propagation from cuttings offers a more efficient way to enjoy their bold presence in your collection.
4. Saguaro Cactus
The iconic Saguaro Cactus, a symbol of the American Southwest, is best admired in its mature form. Growing from seed, it takes over 10 years to reach just a few inches, making it a challenging endeavor. Seedlings are vulnerable to rot, requiring specific care to thrive. The mature Saguaro’s towering presence and distinctive arms create a breathtaking sight, embodying the rugged beauty of desert landscapes.
5. Hoya
Hoya, known for its lush foliage and waxy, fragrant flowers, rarely blooms when grown from seed. Instead, cuttings provide a faster and more reliable method of propagation. Hoyas are cherished for their striking appearance and ease of care, often thriving in hanging pots where their vines can cascade beautifully. Their ability to adapt to various indoor conditions makes them a beloved choice for plant enthusiasts seeking both beauty and simplicity.