Medicinal Aloe

Graptopetalum paraguayensis , or the “ghost plant”, is a great, trailing, wandering, ground cover. We love the colors that this plant brings out in a design, complementing the blues, pinks, and purples that so many of the gorgeous succulents have to offer. Each plant has its own unique coloring and shades to offer. It’s extreme hardiness and coloring make it an incredibly versatile plant. We’ve seen it used as a sprawling ground cover, mounding up and filling in entire planters, or for spot color in the smallest of arrangements. Something overlooked, or sometimes unknown about succulents, is that stress brings out their best color. It’s often a combination of factors that causes the stress and each succulents vibrance, but colder temperatures, less water, and more sun, are the big three factors that come into play. Most succulents, in full sun, in the winter, receiving just the right amount of water, will have the best color here in Southern California. With that being said, there is no “one size fits all” answer to bringing out the best color in each plant. Experiment, tweak, and enjoy playing with your succulents.

More Succulent Tips

Contemporary Succulents

Contemporary gardens are becoming more and water wise and are more appealing for their easy-care. The gardens contain lots of stone, wood, and bold containers with architectural plants. The plants, not used as lushly, stand out even more. The clean lines of the...

Euphorbia Dwarf Milii

The Euphorbia Milii is thought to have been introduced to the Middle East in the ancient times, and is rumored to be associated with the crown of thorns worn by Jesus. We don't know anything about that, but we do know that these plants are very hardy, easy to grow,...

Sempervivum Arachnoideum “Cobweb Buttons”

A unique, densely carpeting groundcover with fine white cotton like threads between the leaves tips that form a cobweb appearance. Aptly called “Cobweb Buttons” this plant is one of the many sempervivums in cultivar today. The green leaves can change colors with the...

8 Low-Maintenance Indoor Plants

If you’re new to collecting houseplants, start with these cool beginner plants that still bring loads of color and style to your decor.

What Plant Suits Your Best Friend

Take this quiz to see what type of plant is the best gift for your special someone, based on their preferred love language.

Irvine Heat Wave – Aeoniums React

All plants have their preferred climates. The majority of succulents are native to South Africa and the Mediterranean,  while they can tolerate droughts, they do not thrive in them. Desert loving cactus will thrive through extreme temperatures, blazing hot sun, and...

Yucca Rostrata

Colors are fun to play with in the garden. Use the blue leaves of the Yucca Rostrata to transition to a blue hued garden. Focus on the Rostrata for a focal point, an Agave ‘Blue Glow’ or ‘Celsii Nova’ for medium height, and finish off with Sedum Clavatum and Turquoise...

Plants That Actually Talk Back 🌿

When it comes to choosing houseplants, there’s a common hesitation we hear all the time: “I want something unique… but I don’t want to accidentally kill it.” Totally fair. Many “boutique” plants look incredible—but can feel unpredictable. One day they’re thriving, the...

Is It Hard To Take Care Of Fiddle Leaf Figs?

Fiddle leaf fig care is a bit daunting for new houseplant owners, yet it still continues to grow in popularity. People can’t get enough of this gloriously glossy plant, and honestly, we can’t blame them! Fiddle leaf figs aren’t that difficult to care for, all things...

Agave Blue Glow

The Agave ‘Blue Glow’ is one of our favorites here at Orange County Succulents. The clean, architectural lines create a beautiful, symmetric rosette. This particular specimen is the biggest we’ve ever had and one of the best examples we’ve ever seen. ‘Blue Glow’ is a...

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