How big do succulents get? Succulent plants come in various sizes, forms, and hues and are distributed worldwide.
We’ll look at the different succulent sizes in this post and offer advice on picking the best size for your garden or house.
Small, indoor succulents like aloe vera and jade plants (Crassula ovata) are among the most popular varieties (Aloe vera).
How Big Do Succulents Get? these plants, which normally grow to heights of 1-3 feet and comparable widths, are well-suited to being cultivated in pots or other containers.
In hot, arid climates, larger succulents are highly popular as landscaping plants. These plants include yucca and agave (Agave spp). (Yucca spp. ).
They may eventually bear flowers on tall stalks and develop to reach many feet tall and wide.
These plants are typically used as accents or focal points in mixed plantings because they can add visual appeal and structure to a garden.
There are a few incredibly tiny varieties, such as “living stones” (Lithops spp.), which are frequently grown in rock gardens or used as highlights in container gardens.
These plants are perfect for people with little room because they are small and will stay that way. The particular kind of succulent and its growing environment determine its size.
While some succulents may be kept small with routine trimming, others might need more room to grow to their full potential.
Succulents are a beautiful and low-maintenance option for gardeners, regardless of size.
They are a great option for individuals who want to enjoy plants’ beauty without worry because they may flourish with little maintenance and care.
What Are Succulents
before we discuss about How Big Do Succulents Get it’s good to understand what a succulent is first.
Plants in the succulent family are known for their ability to store water in various parts of their bodies, including their leaves, stems, and roots.
They may thrive in hot, dry climates where other plants wither and die.
You can find succulents in every rainbow color and every size imaginable.
They are well-liked among horticulturists and green-thumbs due to their low upkeep requirements and adaptability.
Plants in the succulent family have fleshy, thick leaves and stems that set them apart.
Because of these adaptations, they can store water in their tissues and thrive in arid or sparsely watered environments.
Deserts, semi-deserts, rocky cliffs, and even grasslands all play host to succulents in one form or another.
Since they can be found in many distinct forms, they are frequently used as ornamental garden plants and decorative indoor houseplants.
Cacti, aloe, agave, and euphorbia are some of the succulents that grow in various shapes and sizes.
Cacti are a type of succulent with thick, spiky stems and leaves that resemble spines; they thrive in the dry, arid conditions of the desert.
The versatility and ease with which succulents flourish in various environments have made them a popular choice for home gardeners.
These plants can survive with little to no watering and look great even when conditions are dry. They require little in the way of care because of their resilience against pests and diseases.
They’re adaptable enough to be used in a wide range of indoor and outdoor planting schemes, containers, and on the ground.
What factors affect the size of a succulent?
How Big Do Succulents Get? there are several factors that can affect it.
The size of a succulent plant can vary depending on various factors. Here are a few instances:
How big do succulents get? Genetic Factors.
The genetic makeup of a succulent mostly determines how big it gets. Some succulents are smaller by nature, while others can grow enormous.
Environmental Factors
A succulent’s size may also be influenced by the environment in which it grows. For instance, succulents planted in sunny, drying soil expand more than those grown in darker or moister environments.
how big do succulents get? Lighting.
A significant factor that could affect a succulent’s growth is lighting. Succulents need light to develop and flourish, and the amount of light they receive can greatly impact how quickly they grow.
Here are some ideas to consider:
Light intensity.
Succulents grown in low-light situations tend to be smaller and less healthy than those produced in areas with bright, direct sunlight.
Succulents must be protected from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause sunburn and other plant damage.
Duration of light.
A succulent’s size may also be influenced by how much light it receives daily. Succulents need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive.
The quality of the light can also have an impact on succulent growth. In comparison to those cultivated in harsh, direct sunlight, succulents planted in areas with bright, indirect light typically grow larger and healthier.
Seasonal changes.
A succulent’s exposure to light can also change according to the season. Succulents could get less light during the winter’s shorter days and grow more slowly.
For healthy development and to prevent problems like etiolation, succulents must get the proper amount and type of light (stretching towards the light).
How big do succulents get? Soil
The type of soil in which a succulent is cultivated might have an impact on its size and growth. Here are some things to think about:
Succulents prefer well-draining soil that does not retain moisture for extended periods of time. Soils that are overly dense or retain moisture can induce root rot, which can impede or even kill the plant’s growth.
pH of the soil
The pH of the soil can also influence the size of a succulent. Succulents prefer soil that is somewhat acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Too alkaline or acidic soils might interfere with nutrient intake and result in stunted growth.
Soil nutrient content
The nutrient content of the soil can also influence succulent size. Succulents, which are evolved to growing in nutrient-poor habitats, prefer soil that is somewhat low in nutrients.
Excessive leaf growth at the expense of flower production might result from overfertilizing a succulent.
Soil moisture
As with any plant, the moisture level of the soil can impact succulent size. Overwatering can cause root rot, whereas underwatering can cause the plant to become stunted or stop developing.
To support healthy growth in a succulent, it is critical to choose a well-draining soil type and to offer the necessary amount of water and minerals.
Watering
Overwatering a succulent can cause root rot issues, which can stunt or even kill the plant’s growth. On the other hand, a succulent’s growth can also be stunted or stopped by insufficient watering.
Fertilization
Regular applications of a balanced fertilizer may cause succulents to grow larger than those that aren’t fertilized. Overfertilization should be avoided, though, as this can result in excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Age
Just like with any plant, a succulent will typically get bigger as it grows and gets older.
How big do succulents get? Pests
Pests can impact the size and health of a succulent plant by feeding on its tissues and dealing with its growth. Here are some common pests that might harm succulents, as well as some other considerations to consider:
Aphids
Aphids are little, pear-shaped insects that feed on plant sap, notably succulent sap. They can impact growth and distort foliage, as well as spread disease.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are little, white insects that feed on plant sap, notably succulent sap. They are capable of causing stunted growth, deformed leaves, and decreased flower production.
Scale insects
Scale insects are small, armored insects that feed on plant sap, notably succulent sap. They are capable of causing stunted growth, deformed leaves, and decreased flower production.
Mites
Mites are microscopic, spider-like insects that feed on plant sap, notably succulent sap. They are capable of causing stunted growth, deformed leaves, and decreased flower production.
Slugs and snails
Slugs and snails can harm succulent plants by nibbling on their leaves and stems. They can damage the foliage, causing the plant to become stunted or stop developing.
To keep pests from compromising the size and health of a succulent plant, inspect it on a regular basis for symptoms of infestation and implement appropriate control measures as needed.
This could entail hand-picking pests, using pesticides, or introducing natural predators like ladybugs.
To keep plants healthy and less prone to pest issues, it is also vital to adopt sound cultural practices such as providing the appropriate amount of light and water and preventing overcrowding.
The size of the pot
- Pot size: Growing succulents in larger pots generally gives them more room to spread out and gives them a better chance of growing larger than those grown in smaller pots.
On the other hand, because they won’t be pot-bound and may not be as stimulated to grow, succulents grown in excessively large pots might not grow as quickly.
- Pot material: A succulent’s size can also be influenced by the type of pot it is in.
Terracotta or wood pots are porous and will allow water to evaporate more readily, reducing the risk of overwatering and root rot. Succulents may benefit from this as they grow.
- Pot drainage: Succulents need good drainage because too much water can lead to root rot. This issue can be avoided by using pots with drainage holes, which allow extra water to drain away.
- Pot placement: The position of the pot can have an impact on a succulent’s size. In general, succulents grown in pots in sunny, draining locations will be larger than those grown in shadier or moister environments.
In order to promote healthy growth, it is generally important to select a pot size that is appropriate for the size of the succulent and to provide the necessary care, including watering and fertilizing.
Slow-growing succulents can take several years to reach their full size. However, some species grow more quickly than others, and the environment in which a plant is grown may also have an impact on the size of that plant.
Big Succulents Types List
If we discuss about How Big Do Succulents Get then we cannot avoid some types of large succulent sizes.
Aloe Vera
The Aloe vera plants normally grow to be between 1 and 3 feet tall in containers, but they can reach heights of up to 6 feet when planted in the ground.
Aloe vera plants can reach heights of 30 inches, with leaves that can measure up to 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
Cressula ovata (Jade Plant)
South Africa is home to the jade plant, or Crassula ovata, a succulent plant.
Being a succulent, the jade plant can survive in dry, arid areas because to the water stored in its fleshy, thick leaves and stems.
A jade plant can grow to a variety of sizes depending on its age and the quality of its surroundings.
When planted in the ground, jade plants can reach heights of three feet, but when kept in a pot, they only reach two to three feet.
In ideal circumstances, a healthy jade plant can expand to a height of 6 feet or more and a width of 8 feet.
Jade plant leaves come in a wide range of sizes, although they are normally between 2 and 4 inches long.
The plant’s stems end in clusters of tiny white or pink blooms.
Aeonium tree-of-life
The Canary Islands are the natural habitat of the succulent plant species Aeonium arboreum. It can survive in dry, arid climates thanks to its thick, fleshy leaves and stems, which act as reservoirs for water.
Grown in containers, Aeonium arboreum plants typically reach a height of 2–3 feet, while those planted directly in the ground can reach a height of 6 feet or more.
Rosetted and up to 6 inches in diameter, the leaves of an Aeonium arboreum plant are distinctive. Small, yellow or orange flowers cluster together on the plant’s long stems.
Kalanchoe
This species, also known as the elephant’s ear plant or felt bush, is native to Madagascar.
It is a large, shrub-like plant that can grow to a height of 8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters) and spread to a width of 8-12 feet (2.4-3.6 meters).
- Kalanchoe pinnata: This species is native to Madagascar and is also known as the air plant or cathedral bells. It is a medium-sized plant that can grow to be 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters) tall and 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) wide.
- Kalanchoe thyrsiflora: This species is native to South Africa and is also known as the flaming Katy or florist’s Kalanchoe. It is a medium-sized plant that can grow to be 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) tall.
Trigona Euphorbia (African Milk Tree)
The African milk tree, also known as Euphorbia trigona, is a succulent plant native to Central and West Africa.
Because of its distinct appearance and relative ease of care, it is a popular plant in cultivation.
The plant has triangular, dark green stems that grow upright and can grow to a height of 5 feet (1.5 meters).
It has small, inconspicuous flowers, but it is prized for its beautiful foliage and architectural shape.
Oxypetalum Epiphyllum (Queen of the Night)
The Queen of the Night, Epiphyllum oxypetalum, is a species of cactus native to Central and South America.
It is a climbing cactus with long, narrow stems and large, showy flowers that can grow up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) in length.
The flowers are usually white or pink in color, with a strong, fragrant scent that is most noticeable at night.
The size of Epiphyllum oxypetalum varies greatly depending on the growing conditions. It can grow quite large in its natural habitat, but it tends to be smaller when grown as a houseplant.
As a houseplant, it can grow to be 3-4 feet (1-1.2 meters) long and 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) wide. Ensure you can be trained to grow along a trellis or other support, allowing it to be kept smaller if desired.
Provide your Epiphyllum oxypetalum with the proper care so that it can reach its full potential.
The Epiphyllum oxypetalum plant prefers a sunny, indirect light location, well-draining soil, and regular watering (allowing the soil to dry out between waterings).
The plant also must be protected from extreme temperature fluctuations and drafts, which can harm the plant.
Your Epiphyllum oxypetalum should thrive with proper care and produce beautiful, fragrant flowers.
Size of the biggest succulent
How Big Do Succulents Get? The following are some types of succulents with the largest size.
- Agave americana: popularly known as the American aloe or century plant, is a species endemic to Mexico.
It is a large, shrub-like plant that may reach heights of 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) and widths of 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters).
- Yucca elephantipes: Native to Mexico and Central America, this species is sometimes known as the spineless yucca or elephant’s foot.
It is a medium-sized plant that may reach heights of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) and widths of 4-8 feet (1.2-2.4 meters).
- Aloe arborescens: This plant is endemic to South Africa and is also known as candelabra aloe or tree aloe.
It is a large, tree-like plant that may reach heights of 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters) and widths of 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters).
Remember, these are only a few examples; more succulent species may grow to be enormous as well.
Always investigate the mature size of a species before planting it in your home or garden to verify that it is a good fit for the area you have available.
Small Succulent Types List
How Big Do Succulents Get? there are several types of succulents that have a small size, here are some examples of them.
Echeveria Minima
Echeveria minima is a small succulent that grows to only a few inches in height and width.
It is distinguished by its rosette-shaped foliage and small, pink, or orange flowers on tall, thin stalks.
While Echeveria minima is a small plant, given the right conditions, it can grow slightly larger.
It can grow up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) tall and wide in ideal conditions, but it is more likely to stay smaller. It is a slow-growing plant, so it may take some time to reach maturity.
Provide Echeveria minima with the proper care to reach its full potential. It prefers a sunny, indirect light location, well-draining soil, and regular watering (allowing the soil to dry out between waterings).
It must also be protected from extreme temperature fluctuations and drafts, which can harm the plant. Your Echeveria minima should thrive with proper care and provide a lovely, low-maintenance addition to your garden or home.
Haworthia Attenuata (Zebra Plant)
Haworthia attenuata, also known as the zebra plant, is a small species of succulent native to South Africa.
It is a popular plant in cultivation due to its attractive foliage and relative ease of care. It is a small plant, typically growing only a few inches in height and width.
The leaves are long and narrow, with white stripes or markings that give the plant its zebra-like appearance. Haworthia attenuata produces small, white flowers on tall, thin stalks, which can add an additional few inches of height to the plant.
While Haworthia attenuata is a small plant, it can potentially grow slightly larger under the right conditions.
In ideal conditions, it may reach up to 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) in height and width, although it is more common for it to remain smaller. It is a slow-growing plant, so it may take some time for it to reach its full size.
To ensure that your Haworthia attenuata grows to its full potential, it is important to provide it with the right care.
It prefers a sunny location with indirect light, well-draining soil, and regular watering (allowing the soil to dry out between waterings).
It is also important to protect it from extreme temperature fluctuations and drafts, as these can damage the plant. With the right care, your Haworthia attenuata should thrive and provide you with a beautiful, low-maintenance addition to your garden or home.
Crassula Capitella (Campfire Crassula)
Crassula capitella, also known as the campfire crassula or red pagoda, is a species of succulent native to South Africa.
It is a small plant, typically growing only a few inches in height and width. The leaves are small, triangular, and arranged in tight, overlapping clusters, giving the plant a dense, compact appearance.
The leaves are green when young, but they turn shades of orange, red, and yellow as the plant matures, giving it its common name.
Crassula capitella produces small, white or pink flowers on tall, thin stalks, which can add an additional few inches of height to the plant.
While Crassula capitella is a little plant, with the appropriate conditions, it has the ability to grow somewhat larger.
In ideal conditions, it can grow to be 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) tall and wide, although it is more likely to stay smaller. Because it is a slow-growing plant, it may take some time to achieve maturity.
Lithops
Lithops, often known as living stones, are a kind of tiny succulent plant found in Southern Africa.
They are distinguished by their fleshy, stone-like leaves, which resemble little rocks or pebbles. Lithops are little plants that develop to be only a few inches tall and wide.
The leaves are normally less than an inch (2.5 cm) in diameter and grouped in a single pair, with a little fissure-like hole at the top through which the flowers emerge. Lithops have daisy-like blooms that are yellow, white, or pink.
While Lithops are little plants, given the correct conditions, they have the capacity to grow slightly larger.
They may grow up to 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in height and breadth in optimum conditions, although they are usually much smaller. They are slow-growing plants, so they may take some time to mature.
Sedum Rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)
The jelly bean plant, also known as Sedum rubrotinctum, is a succulent native to Mexico. It is a little plant with only a few inches of height and width.
The leaves are tiny and plump, resembling jelly beans, so the common name. When young, the leaves are green, but as the plant matures, they turn red, pink, and orange, giving it a lively, colorful appearance.
Sedum rubrotinctum has small, yellow or white flowers on tall, slender stalks that can add a few inches to the plant’s height.
While Sedum rubrotinctum is a little plant, given the right conditions, it can grow slightly larger.
It can grow to be 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) tall and wide under perfect conditions, although it is more likely to stay smaller. It is a slow-growing plant, so it may take some time to reach maturity.
FAQ Regarding How Big Do Succulents Get
How big can a succulent grow indoor?
Succulents planted indoors are generally smaller than those grown outside because they do not receive as much light and are subject to more humid conditions.
On the other hand, succulents cultivated indoors can grow quite large, especially if given proper light and care.
How Big Do Succulents get when planting in Outdoors location?
Do Succulents Grow Bigger in Bigger Pots?
Succulents will not necessarily grow larger simply because they are placed in a larger pot.
The size of a succulent is governed mostly by its species and the growing conditions to which it is subjected, rather than the size of the container in which it is planted.
That being said, there are a few ways in which the size of a container might effect succulent development.
For example, if a succulent is placed in a pot that is too small for its size, it may get rootbound, preventing it from growing.
If a succulent is placed in an overly large container, the soil may take longer to dry out between waterings, which can lead to overwatering and root rot.
How Big Do Succulents Get The Conclusions
Succulents are a popular choice for home gardeners and landscapers. The term “succulent” refers to a large family of plants, meaning that there are many different sizes and types from which to choose.
How Big Do Succulents Get It’s all based on the care we give.
Once you learn more about succulents and grow them for a period of time, you will be able to get a better feel for what works in your garden based on the amount of sun or shade they get each day, the moisture they need to thrive, and the size they reach when growing in your soil.
Eventually you will be able to make comparisons with succulents you already know. And choose those that work best for your needs based on size!