Complete Gardening
Succulents are not just popular for their low-maintenance care and diverse forms, but some carry delightfully whimsical names that bring a smile to any plant enthusiast’s face.
This post introduces you to 15 hilariously named succulents, each with its own charm and amusing moniker.
From plants mimicking animals to those resembling everyday objects, these succulents are sure to tickle your funny bone while adding an interesting conversation piece to your collection.
1. Donkey’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)
Sedum morganianum, commonly known as Donkey’s Tail, is a charming trailing succulent. Its long, cascading stems are covered with fleshy, blue-green leaves that closely resemble a donkey’s tail.
This unique appearance makes it a favorite for hanging baskets where it can showcase its full length. Donkey’s Tail requires bright, indirect light and prefers to dry out between waterings, making it perfect for busy plant lovers.
Its playful name perfectly matches its quirky look, instantly brightening up any plant collection. An excellent conversation starter, it’s both amusing and delightful to have around.
2. Pork and Beans (Sedum rubrotinctum)
Sedum rubrotinctum, aptly named Pork and Beans, is known for its plump, jellybean-like leaves. These leaves start off green but develop a vibrant red hue when exposed to ample sunlight.
This playful color transformation adds a dynamic touch to your indoor or outdoor garden. Pork and Beans is a hardy succulent that thrives in well-drained soil and copious sunshine.
Despite its whimsical name, it’s a serious contender in bringing life and color to any plant display. Perfect for beginner gardeners, its low-maintenance nature and charming appearance will surely leave you amused.
3. Baby Toes (Fenestraria rhopalophylla)
Fenestraria rhopalophylla, popularly called Baby Toes, features adorable, plump leaves resembling tiny toes of a baby. These cute, finger-like leaves grow upright, peeking just above the soil surface, which adds an endearing charm to any setting.
Baby Toes thrive in sandy soil and require bright light, mimicking their native desert habitats. Their compact size makes them ideal for small spaces or as part of a succulent arrangement.
With a name and appearance that’s hard to resist, they are bound to bring a smile to your face every time you see them.
4. String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus)
Senecio peregrinus, commonly referred to as String of Dolphins, captures imaginations with its unique leaf shape. Each leaf resembles a small, leaping dolphin, creating an enchanting visual that’s a delight to behold.
Perfect for hanging baskets, this succulent cascades beautifully, showcasing its playful nature. String of Dolphins thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers a bit of dryness between waterings.
Its charming name coupled with its whimsical appearance makes it a popular choice among plant enthusiasts. It’s more than just a plant; it’s a conversation piece that brings joy and wonder.
5. Bunny Ear Cactus (Opuntia microdasys)
Opuntia microdasys, known as Bunny Ear Cactus, delights with its cute and fuzzy pads resembling rabbit ears. These pads are covered in tiny, hair-like spines called glochids, which add to its endearing appearance.
Despite its cuddly looks, handle with care, as the spines can be prickly. Bunny Ear Cactus thrives in bright light and requires minimal watering. Its playful name and unique appearance make it a favorite among cactus collectors.
Ideal for those seeking an amusing yet low-maintenance plant, it adds a touch of whimsy to any collection.
6. Living Stones (Lithops spp.)
Lithops spp., commonly called Living Stones, are fascinating succulents that mimic the appearance of small, colorful stones. This clever disguise helps them survive in their native habitats by blending into the rocky surroundings.
Living Stones are slow-growing and require minimal care, thriving in well-drained soil and bright light. Their amusing name and unique look make them a conversation starter.
Each plant is unique, offering a diverse array of shapes and colors. Perfect for those looking to add a quirky touch to their collection, they demonstrate nature’s playful creativity.
7. Baseball Plant (Euphorbia obesa)
Euphorbia obesa, or the Baseball Plant, is a near-perfect sphere with stripes that mimic the stitching of a baseball. This intriguing shape is both artistic and amusing, making it a standout in any succulent collection.
Native to South Africa, the Baseball Plant thrives in well-drained soil and enjoys bright, indirect light. Its amusing name perfectly complements its round, charming appearance.
Ideal for collectors who appreciate unusual shapes, the Baseball Plant is low-maintenance and captivating. Its compact size and distinct look make it an excellent addition to any indoor garden.
8. Monkey Tail Cactus (Cleistocactus colademononis)
Cleistocactus colademononis, affectionately known as the Monkey Tail Cactus, boasts long, trailing stems covered in soft, white spines. These spines give the cactus a fluffy appearance reminiscent of a monkey’s tail, adding a touch of humor to its charm.
Perfect for hanging pots, this cactus thrives in bright light and enjoys well-drained soil. Its humorous name and distinctive look make it a favorite for cactus lovers seeking something quirky.
Easy to care for, the Monkey Tail Cactus not only draws attention but also brings a playful twist to any plant collection.
9. Cat’s Tail (Tradescantia sillamontana)
Tradescantia sillamontana, commonly known as Cat’s Tail, features fuzzy, cascading stems that closely resemble the playful swish of a cat’s tail. This succulent is not only visually interesting but also adds a delightful texture to any plant display.
Cat’s Tail thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers well-drained soil, making it a versatile addition to both indoor and outdoor gardens. Its whimsical name and unique look invite a smile, charming plant enthusiasts of all ages.
Perfect for those who love cats, this succulent is as charming as it is easy to care for.
10. Pig’s Ear (Cotyledon orbiculata)
Cotyledon orbiculata, or Pig’s Ear, is a succulent with thick, rounded leaves edged in red, resembling the playful shape of pig ears. This distinctive look adds an amusing and charming element to any garden.
Pig’s Ear thrives in sunny spots and well-drained soil, making it a resilient choice for succulent collectors. Its playful name and unique appearance make it a delightful addition to any plant collection.
Easy to care for, this succulent is perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike, adding charm and whimsy to your space.
11. Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus spp.)
Echinocereus spp., known as the Hedgehog Cactus, is a spiky little plant that lives up to its name. Its dense spines resemble the quills of a hedgehog, offering a delightful visual contrast to its colorful flowers.
Hedgehog Cactus thrives in sunny locations and well-drained soil, making it a perfect choice for rock gardens or indoor sunrooms. Despite its spiky demeanor, it offers a playful twist with its amusing name and vibrant blooms.
Ideal for cactus enthusiasts, it brings a touch of humor and color to any plant collection, proving that nature loves a good pun.
12. Zebra Plant (Haworthiopsis fasciata)
Haworthiopsis fasciata, or the Zebra Plant, showcases striking dark green leaves with bold white stripes, reminiscent of a zebra’s unique pattern. This eye-catching design makes it a popular choice among succulent collectors.
The Zebra Plant thrives in indirect sunlight and well-drained soil, requiring minimal maintenance. Its distinctive appearance and playful name ensure it stands out in any collection. Perfect for those who appreciate visual intrigue, it’s both stylish and easy to care for.
With its compact size and striking design, it brings an exotic touch to your indoor garden.
13. Jellyfish Succulent (Chlorophytum comosum + succulents)
The Jellyfish Succulent is an imaginative arrangement combining succulents with Chlorophytum comosum, often known as the spider plant, to mimic the appearance of a floating jellyfish. This playful design is not only creative but also visually stunning.
Hanging gracefully, it thrives in bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. Its whimsical name and unique design make it a standout piece in any home or garden.
Perfect for those who love artistic plant displays, the Jellyfish Succulent brings a splash of creativity and humor to your decor. It’s a delightful conversation piece.
14. Cobra Plant (Euphorbia lactea ‘Cristata’)
Euphorbia lactea ‘Cristata’, known as the Cobra Plant, boasts a wavy, ridged shape that resembles a striking cobra. This dramatic appearance is as intriguing as it is captivating, making it a fascinating addition to any collection.
The Cobra Plant thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers well-drained soil, requiring minimal care. Its striking name and unusual form make it a favorite among collectors who appreciate unique and exotic plants.
Ideal for those who enjoy bold designs, the Cobra Plant adds an element of surprise and intrigue to any space.
15. Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra)
Portulacaria afra, commonly known as Elephant Bush, is a small, tree-like succulent with tiny, round leaves. This plant is not only charming in appearance but also serves as a food source for elephants in its native habitat.
Elephant Bush thrives in bright light and well-drained soil, making it a resilient choice for any plant collection. Its playful name and ecological importance make it a unique addition to any garden.
Easy to care for, it’s perfect for plant enthusiasts who appreciate both beauty and function. This succulent is a testament to nature’s humor and resourcefulness.