These two types of plants may seem similar at first glance, but there are some key distinctions that set them apart. Both have thick and fleshy stems or leaves, allowing them to store water for long periods of time, which makes them drought-tolerant.
Cacti and succulents are closely related, with cacti representing the botanical family ‘Cactaceae’ and succulents referring to various plant types included in several plant families. All cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti.
What is a succulent plant?
Succulents, originating from the Latin ‘Sucus’ meaning juice or sap, are found in dry, arid climates where they rely on dew and mist for survival because of infrequent rainfall. Succulents is not a botanical classification, meaning that many different plants from many different plant families can be considered succulent.
One of the defining features of succulents is their thick, fleshy leaves or stems. These structures are specially adapted to retain water, allowing succulents to survive in arid environments with limited rainfall. The leaves of succulents are typically thick and waxy, which helps to reduce water loss through evaporation.
These water storage capabilities allow succulent plants to survive prolonged periods of drought. These drought-resistant succulents store water, absorb excess moisture during periods of rainfall or high humidity, and then slowly release it when water is scarce. This adaptation helps outdoor and indoor succulent plants maintain their overall health and vitality, even in challenging environments.
Some popular types of succulents include Jade plants, Echeveria, Hens & Chicks, and Aloe vera.
What is a Cactus?
All cacti are succulents. What makes cacti unique is that they have areoles—small, cushion-like structures on the surface of the cactus where spines, flowers, and new growth emerge. Other succulents do not have areoles.
Cacti are a specific group of succulents that have evolved unique adaptations to survive in harsh desert environments. Their special stems store water, allowing them to go long periods of time without water. Their spines, which are actually modified leaves, serve multiple purposes, including protecting the cactus from predators and reducing water loss.
Some popular types of cactus are Golden Barrel, Prickly Pear, Night Blooming Cereus, and Christmas Cactus.
Cacti and Succulents Care for Beginners
When it comes to cacti and succulent plant care, it is relatively easy, and they have similar care requirements. Here are some general tips for their care and maintenance:
Cacti and succulents can withstand full sun, but they prefer bright indirect light. Place cactus and succulents near a sunny window or in a well-lit area. Be cautious of intense, direct sunlight, as it can scorch their leaves.
Both succulents and cacti have low water needs. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. It’s better underwater than over-water cacti and succulents.
Well-draining soil is essential for succulents and cacti. Use a specialized succulent and cactus mix like Espoma Cactus Mix or create your own by adding perlite or pumice to regular potting soil.
Most succulents and cacti prefer warm temperatures. Protect them from extreme cold or frost, as it can damage or kill them. Bring your plants indoors if you live in cold areas with freezing temperatures.
Succulent cacti have low fertilizer requirements. Feed them with a balanced, natural fertilizer once a year during the actively growing season (spring). Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy. The Garden Place recommends Espoma Organic Liquid Succulent Food.
Propagation is easy. Succulents are easy to propagate from cuttings or leaves. Start by using clean, sharp scissors or pruners to take a healthy cutting or remove a leaf from your plant. Allow your cutting or leaf to sit in a dry, shaded area for a few days until the cut end forms a callus to prevent rot. Once callused, place the cutting or leaf on top of a shallow container of cactus and succulent soil, lightly pressing it in if needed. Do not water right away—wait several days, then begin watering lightly once roots start to form. Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering. You will see tiny roots and small leaves emerge from the cutting. Once the plant has established itself in the soil, it can be repotted. These plants can also be propagated by offsets – tiny plants that grow from the base of the “mother plant”. Remove carefully, following the same steps above.