Cacti and succulents make great additions to your home. They are very easy to care for and are a great ornamental feature to have in your home. Cacti and succulents are more closely related than many people realise, in fact, cactus plants are a type of succulent. However, what separates them are various physical features, like the needle spikes you find on cacti. Cactus plants also have rounded indentations running along their stems called areoles, which is where the spikes grow from. Succulents are any plant that stores water within itself, specifically the leaves play this part in most succulents. Cacti plants on the other hand do not have leaves, so their main water reservoir lives in the stem. The stem of a cactus often looks rounded, thick and tight to the touch.
Both plant types are hardy and tough, and can survive in some of the harshest climates on the planet, making them extremely low-maintenance plants.
Choosing Cacti & Succulents For Your Home
Cacti and succulents come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes, which is what makes them so exciting and visually appealing when decorating your interior. They are also easy to look after…
Cacti and succulents are usually found growing in deserts, where they are subject to fluctuating day and night temperatures, strong sunlight and periods of extreme drought. Although cacti and succulents are hardy, they will thrive in conditions similar to those of their natural habitat. They like to be kept dry and positioned somewhere that gets direct sunlight, like your windowsill. Except for a few outliers who enjoy high humidity, it is best to keep cacti and succulents out of rooms with lots of moisture - like your bathroom. Being drought tolerant also means that cacti and succulents don’t have a demanding watering schedule and should only be watered when their soil is completely dry to the touch. When watering a cacti plant or succulent it is important to let the water drain completely - if you’re unsure find our guide on how to water indoor plants.
Because of the huge variety of cacti and succulents, there is something for everyone and every home. If you’re looking for a statement piece, opt for a large architectural variety, like the cowboy cactus or African milk tree. Limited on space? Don’t worry, there are plenty of small succulent plants too. The green pearl succulent is great small plant that beautifully decorates shelves in kitchens, whilst a classic aloe vera plant would work well on your bedside table, where you’ll benefit from its air-purifying qualities. A mistletoe cactus is unique for a succulent, as it enjoys moisture and would work well placed in your bathroom.
Cacti and succulents also make great additions to an office, or working from home desk. Greenery and plants are proven to boost productivity and concentration when working, add a cute agave ‘blue glow’ to your desk space and notice the benefits. Read our plant blog to discover all the best plant desk buddies to have.
The Best Cacti & Succulents
Discover top-quality cacti and succulents and choose from a carefully curated collection of these plant types, all of which can be delivered to your door. From large, attention-grabbing plants such as our range of architectural snake plants with dramatic, spiked leaves to a classic Aloe Vera, widely celebrated for its fantastic healing properties - we've got something for everyone. Our cactus bowl is another popular option serving up a gorgeous range of mixed cacti in a terracotta bowl.
Cacti & Succulents As Gifts
Cacti and succulents are also great plants to choose as gifts for family and friends because they are popular and easy to care for. With symbols of warmth, protection and love, cacti and succulents make for the perfect gift to thank you, get well soon and as a housewarming gesture. Give a gift that keeps growing with The Stem. Looking for inspiration or need help choosing your next cacti or succulent? The Stem makes it easy to find the right plant for your home. Use the filters on our website to select the room you’re looking to decorate with plants, the levels of natural light your new plant will receive, the size of plant you’re after and even your plant parenting level.