When you walk into OC Succulents, you’re not just stepping into a plant nursery—you’re entering a legacy of passion, dedication, and a love for greenery for over 50 years. At the heart of it all is Chris Stansbury, who has been guiding the company with a hands-on approach, ensuring that customers receive top-quality plants with unmatched service.
We sat down with Chris to talk about the journey of OC Succulents, the evolution of the company, and the plants that deserve a little more love.
From Family Roots to a Thriving Nursery
🪴 What inspired you to start (or take over) OC Succulents?
Chris: I didn’t start OC Succulents—that was my mom and dad’s idea—but I was given the opportunity to run with it. I enjoy building things, improving where we can, connecting with customers, and living out our mission and vision. I also love working with plants, being outside, and not being stuck in an office all day.
How Has OC Succulents Evolved Over the Years?
🌿 How has the company changed since its early days?
Chris: I like this question because, in many ways, not much has changed. While technology and systems have updated slightly, the best part is that many of our plants, customers, and team members have remained the same. We’re fortunate to have long-standing team members and loyal customers who have been with us for many years.
🌱 What sets OC Succulents apart from other plant suppliers?
Chris: Our people, our plants, and our processes. Our team is exceptional, always putting customers first and striving to exceed expectations. We focus on top-quality plants with consistent availability. While we’re not a tech company, we aim to be as progressive as possible, making things easier for our customers.
New & Underrated Plants to Watch For
🌟 Are there any exciting new plant varieties arriving soon?
Chris: Always! This spring will bring many new houseplants and succulents that were once considered rare but are now becoming more commercially available. Follow us on Instagram and make sure you’re signed up for our emails and texts for updates.
🌿 What are some underrated plants that more customers should consider?
Chris: Hardy indoor plants like Dracaena, ZZ plants, and Sansevieria. These plants have stood the test of time, thriving indoors with minimal care. Additionally, many succulents, Crassulas, and Agaves are underrated for their versatility—they can be incorporated into almost any type of landscape.
Looking Ahead: The Future of OC Succulents
🚀 Are there any upcoming changes or expansions we should know about?
Chris: Not at this time. Right now, our focus is on strengthening our current team and ensuring we continue delivering excellence before scaling further.
🌿 What are your goals for the company in the next few years?
Chris: Our goal is to continue living out our mission—exceeding customer expectations by providing top-quality plants and variety—while also working toward our vision of building a strong company that leaves a lasting impression on everyone we interact with. We’re also focused on investing in our team, believing that a strong team leads to a strong company.
💚 What’s your personal favorite plant and why?
Chris: I get asked this often, but I don’t have a single favorite plant. What I really appreciate are the everyday plants in the greenhouse or nursery that are extraordinarily beautiful. It’s like a sunset—we see them all the time, but some stand out more than others.
Visit OC Succulents & Find Your Perfect Plant!
Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just getting started, OC Succulents has something for everyone. Stop by to explore our ever-growing selection of houseplants, succulents, and rare finds—all cultivated with care right here in California.
📍 Visit us in-store or shop online to bring home your next favorite plant!
📩 Stay Updated: Be the first to know about new arrivals, special promotions, and plant care tips by signing up for our texts promotions and following us on Instagram!
