Best Tall Succulents for Your Home or Office

Tall succulents are a great addition to any garden, providing a unique and exotic look that is sure to impress. With their striking shapes and stunning colors, these plants are perfect for adding height and texture to your landscape. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or simply want to fill in some empty space, there are plenty of tall succulents to choose from.

One of the most popular tall succulents is the Mother of Millions. This plant can grow up to six feet tall and features long, narrow leaves that are edged in red. Another great option is the Candelabra Spurge, which can reach heights of up to eight feet and produces stunning yellow flowers in the spring.

If you’re looking for something truly unique, consider the Joshua Tree. This iconic succulent can grow up to 40 feet tall and is native to the Mojave Desert. Other tall succulents to consider include the Century Plant, Sticks on Fire, Spineless Yucca, Ocotillo, Snake Plant, Tree Aloe, Crown of Thorns, Elephant Bush, and Baobab.

Key Takeaways

  • Tall succulents are a great way to add height and texture to your garden.
  • Mother of Millions, Candelabra Spurge, and Joshua Tree are just a few of the many tall succulents available.
  • When choosing a tall succulent, consider the plant’s size, shape, and color to ensure it fits your landscape needs.

Mother of Millions

Mother of Millions
Mother of Millions

One of the most fascinating tall succulents is the Mother of Millions, also known as Kalanchoe daigremontiana. This succulent is native to Madagascar and is known for its unique ability to produce plantlets on the edges of its leaves.

The leaves of the Mother of Millions are lance-shaped and can grow up to six inches long. They are a beautiful green color and have a slightly serrated edge. The plantlets that grow on the edges of the leaves are small and can be easily removed to propagate new plants.

The Mother of Millions is a slow grower and can reach heights of up to three feet. It prefers well-draining soil and only needs to be watered when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, so it’s important to be careful not to water too much.

The stems of the Mother of Millions are thick and can be quite sturdy. The plant produces small, tubular flowers that are a beautiful pinkish-orange color. These flowers can attract pollinators and add a pop of color to your garden.

Propagation of the Mother of Millions is easy, as the plantlets can be removed from the leaves and planted directly in soil. The plant can also be propagated by stem cuttings, which should be allowed to dry for a few days before being planted in soil.

Overall, the Mother of Millions is a beautiful and unique succulent that is perfect for adding some color and interest to your garden. Its ability to produce plantlets on its leaves is truly fascinating and makes it a must-have for any succulent enthusiast.

Candelabra Spurge

Candelabra Spurge
Candelabra Spurge

Candelabra Spurge, also known as Euphorbia ammak, is a stunning tall succulent that can grow up to 20 feet tall. This succulent is native to deserts and semi-arid regions of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

One of the most striking features of the Candelabra Spurge is its widely spaced leaves that grow in a spiral pattern, giving it a candelabra-like appearance. The leaves are green and can turn bronze or purple in full sun. In winter, the leaves may drop off, but the plant will regrow them in spring.

Candelabra Spurge is a hardy succulent that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and hardiness zones. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil. In the winter, it can be kept indoors under a grow light to ensure proper photosynthesis.

The Candelabra Spurge produces bell-shaped flowers that are greenish-yellow in color. However, they are not the main attraction of this succulent. Its unique candelabra-like shape and widely spaced leaves make it a standout in any garden or indoor space.

When pruning or propagating the Candelabra Spurge, it is important to wear gloves and use shears to avoid contact with its milky sap, which can cause skin irritation. Aeration is also important to prevent root rot.

Overall, the Candelabra Spurge is a stunning and hardy tall succulent that can add a unique touch to any garden or indoor space.

Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree

As a tall succulent plant, the Joshua Tree (Yucca brevifolia) is a towering plant that can grow up to 40 feet tall. This plant is native to North America, specifically the Mojave Desert, and is known for its unique and striking appearance.

The Joshua Tree is not typically grown as a houseplant, as it requires full sun and dry conditions to thrive. It is also not edible, but is often used as a decorative plant in rock gardens or as a vertical dimension in landscaping.

In terms of foliage, the Joshua Tree has long, spiky leaves that grow in a rosette pattern at the top of the trunk. The leaves are green and can be up to 3 feet long.

The Joshua Tree is also known for its yellow flowers, which bloom in the spring. The flowers are bell-shaped and can grow up to 3 inches long.

To keep the Joshua Tree healthy, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil and to avoid over-watering. This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive with very little moisture. It is also important to keep the plant in a container or area with good air circulation to prevent fungal growth.

Overall, the Joshua Tree is a stunning and unique addition to any landscape or rock garden. It requires bright light and dry conditions to thrive, but can be a beautiful and healthy addition when properly cared for.

Century Plant

Century Plant
Century Plant

As a tall succulent, the Century Plant (Agave americana) is a stunning addition to any landscape or indoor plant collection. This slow-growing plant can reach up to 10 feet in height and 15 feet in width, making it a great choice for borders or as a statement piece.

One of the most striking features of the Century Plant is its spines, which can be quite sharp. This makes it important to wear gloves and exercise caution when handling the plant. However, its yellow flowers are a beautiful sight to behold and can attract pollinators to your garden.

The Century Plant is easy to care for and requires well-draining soil, plenty of sunlight, and minimal watering. It is also important to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to etiolation and sunburn.

Propagation can be done by removing offsets, or pups, that grow at the base of the plant. Pruning is generally not necessary, but removing dead leaves can help keep the plant looking tidy.

During its dormant period, the Century Plant requires less water and nutrients. However, it is important to maintain some level of humidity to prevent the plant from drying out.

Overall, the Century Plant is a great choice for those looking for a tall succulent that is easy to care for and adds a unique touch to any landscape or indoor space. It has even earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit for its outstanding qualities.

Sticks on Fire

Sticks on Fire
Sticks on Fire

Sticks on Fire is a unique and stunning succulent that can add a pop of color to any garden or indoor space. This succulent, also known as Euphorbia tirucalli, is native to Africa and is a member of the Euphorbia family.

One of the most striking features of Sticks on Fire is its bright red and orange coloration, which intensifies in direct sunlight. The plant grows in long, thin stems that resemble sticks, hence its common name. These stems can reach up to 6 feet in height, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a tall succulent.

Sticks on Fire is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. It can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, making it a versatile choice for any garden.

However, it’s important to note that Sticks on Fire contains a toxic sap that can cause skin irritation and eye damage, so it’s important to handle it with care and keep it away from children and pets.

Overall, Sticks on Fire is a stunning and unique succulent that can add a touch of color and height to any garden or indoor space.

Spineless Yucca

Spineless Yucca
Spineless Yucca

Spineless Yucca, also known as Yucca elephantipes, is a popular tall succulent that can grow up to 30 feet tall. It is native to Guatemala, Belize, and southeastern Mexico. This plant has a unique appearance with long, sword-shaped leaves that are green and glossy. The leaves are also flexible and can bend without breaking, which is why it is called “spineless.”

One of the reasons why Spineless Yucca is a popular choice for indoor and outdoor decoration is that it requires very little maintenance. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and light conditions, making it an ideal plant for beginners. It also has a slow growth rate, which means that it can stay in the same pot for a long time without needing to be repotted.

Spineless Yucca can also improve indoor air quality by removing toxins from the air. According to a NASA study, this plant is effective in removing formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air. This makes it a great choice for offices, homes, and other indoor spaces where air pollution is a concern.

In summary, Spineless Yucca is a beautiful and low-maintenance succulent that can add a touch of green to any indoor or outdoor space. Its unique appearance, flexibility, and air-purifying properties make it a popular choice among plant enthusiasts.

Ocotillo

Ocotillo
Ocotillo

Ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens) is a tall succulent that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. Ocotillo is a unique succulent that has long, spiny stems that are covered in small leaves.

One of the most interesting things about Ocotillo is that it is deciduous, meaning that it loses its leaves during the dry season. In the spring, after a good rain, Ocotillo will sprout new leaves and bright red flowers. The flowers are a favorite of hummingbirds and other pollinators.

Ocotillo is a great addition to any desert landscape. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in extreme heat. Ocotillo prefers well-draining soil and full sun. It is also important to note that Ocotillo is not frost-tolerant and should be protected during cold snaps.

If you are considering adding Ocotillo to your garden, keep in mind that it can be difficult to transplant due to its long taproot. It is best to plant Ocotillo when it is young and still in a small container. Once established, Ocotillo requires very little maintenance.

Overall, Ocotillo is a stunning succulent that is sure to make a statement in any landscape. Its unique appearance, drought tolerance, and ability to attract pollinators make it a great choice for any gardener looking to add some height to their succulent collection.

Snake Plant

Snake Plant
Snake Plant

Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) is a popular succulent that is native to West Africa. It is also known as Mother-in-law’s Tongue or Snake Tongue due to its long, upright leaves that resemble the shape of a snake’s tongue.

The Snake Plant is a low maintenance plant that is perfect for beginners. It has a unique ability to purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. This makes it an ideal plant for offices, bedrooms, and living rooms.

The Snake Plant can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and has dark green leaves with light green stripes. It is a slow-growing plant that can take up to 5 years to reach its full height. However, it is a hardy plant that can survive in low light conditions and can tolerate neglect.

Here are some care tips for the Snake Plant:

  • Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot.
  • Place the plant in a bright, indirect light. However, it can also tolerate low light conditions.
  • Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
  • Repot the plant every 2-3 years.

In conclusion, the Snake Plant is a beautiful and low maintenance succulent that has the added benefit of purifying the air. It is perfect for beginners and can thrive in a variety of conditions.

Tree Aloe

Tree Aloe
Tree Aloe

Tree Aloe (Aloe barberae) is a tall succulent that can grow up to 60 feet in height. It is also known as the Baines’ Aloe or the African Tree Aloe. This succulent has a thick trunk and long, slender leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are green in color and have a smooth texture.

Tree Aloe is native to South Africa and is often found in the coastal regions of the country. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and heat, making it an ideal choice for arid landscapes.

One of the unique features of Tree Aloe is its ability to attract birds and bees. The plant produces large, showy flowers that bloom in the winter months. These flowers are a vibrant red-orange color and are a favorite of nectar-feeding birds such as sunbirds.

In addition to its ornamental value, Tree Aloe has a number of medicinal uses. The plant’s sap is used to treat burns, wounds, and skin irritations. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to alleviate joint pain and other inflammatory conditions.

Overall, Tree Aloe is a striking and versatile succulent that can be used in a variety of landscape settings. Its unique appearance and medicinal properties make it a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers alike.

Crown of Thorns

Crown of Thorns
Crown of Thorns

Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) is a tall succulent that can grow up to 6 feet in height. It is native to Madagascar and is known for its beautiful flowers that bloom year-round.

The plant has thick stems with sharp thorns and oval-shaped leaves that are glossy and dark green. The flowers are small and come in a range of colors, including pink, red, white, and yellow.

Crown of Thorns is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, and prefers bright, indirect light. The soil should be well-draining, and the plant should be watered sparingly.

One thing to keep in mind when growing Crown of Thorns is that the sap can be irritating to the skin and eyes, so it’s important to wear gloves when handling the plant.

Overall, Crown of Thorns is a beautiful and easy-to-grow succulent that is perfect for those who want a tall plant with year-round blooms.

Elephant Bush

Elephant Bush
Elephant Bush

Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra) is a popular succulent plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall. It is native to South Africa, where it is commonly known as “Spekboom” or “Elephant’s Food.” The plant has thick, fleshy leaves that are about 1 inch long and 0.5 inches wide. The leaves are green, but they can turn reddish-brown in full sun.

One of the unique features of Elephant Bush is that it can store water in its leaves and stems, making it drought-tolerant. This makes it an excellent choice for people who live in dry areas or who do not have a lot of time to water their plants.

Elephant Bush is also easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 30°F to 100°F. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, as long as it receives enough sunlight.

In terms of propagation, Elephant Bush can be grown from stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings should be allowed to dry for a few days before being planted in well-draining soil. Seeds should be planted in the spring or summer and kept moist until they germinate.

Overall, Elephant Bush is a great choice for anyone looking for a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and attractive succulent plant that can grow tall.

Baobab

Baobab
Baobab

Baobab is a tall succulent that belongs to the Adansonia genus. It is native to Africa, Madagascar, and Australia. This succulent is known for its unique appearance and impressive size. Baobab can reach up to 60 feet in height and 40 feet in width.

Baobab has a thick trunk that can store water, which allows it to survive in arid conditions. The leaves of this succulent are deciduous, meaning they fall off during the dry season to conserve water. The flowers of Baobab are large and white, and they bloom at night.

Baobab is a popular ornamental plant due to its striking appearance. It is also used for its medicinal properties, as it contains high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants. The fruit of Baobab is edible and has a tangy flavor. It is used in various dishes and beverages.

Here are some key features of Baobab:

  • Tall and impressive size
  • Thick trunk that can store water
  • Deciduous leaves
  • Large and white flowers that bloom at night
  • Edible fruit with a tangy flavor
  • Medicinal properties

Overall, Baobab is a unique and fascinating succulent that is worth considering for your collection or garden.

Tall and Succulent Beauties for Your Garden

If you’re looking for a statement plant for your garden, consider adding a tall succulent. These plants can add height, texture, and color to your outdoor space. Here are a few of my favorite tall succulent beauties:

Agave Americana

Agave Americana, also known as the century plant, is a stunning succulent that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide. This plant has thick, spiky leaves that form a rosette shape. It blooms only once in its lifetime, producing a towering flower stalk that can reach up to 30 feet tall. Agave Americana is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in full sun and well-draining soil.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a popular succulent that can grow up to 3 feet tall. This plant has thick, fleshy leaves that contain a gel-like substance that can be used for medicinal purposes. Aloe Vera can be grown indoors or outdoors and prefers bright, indirect light. This plant is drought-tolerant and can be propagated easily from offsets.

Euphorbia Ingens

Euphorbia Ingens, also known as the candelabra tree, is a striking succulent that can grow up to 30 feet tall. This plant has a tree-like appearance with multiple branches that form a candelabra shape. It has small, green leaves that fall off as the plant matures, leaving behind a smooth, green trunk. Euphorbia Ingens is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in full sun and well-draining soil.

Adding a tall succulent to your garden can create a stunning focal point and add interest to your landscape. Consider these beauties when choosing a statement plant for your outdoor space.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tall succulents are a great addition to any plant collection. They offer a unique and interesting look that can complement any room or garden. With so many different varieties available, there is sure to be a tall succulent that fits your personal style and needs.

When choosing a tall succulent, it is important to consider factors such as lighting, soil, and watering needs. Some of the best tall succulents include the snake plant, yucca plant, and ponytail palm. These plants are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of environments.

Overall, tall succulents are a great choice for anyone looking to add some greenery to their space. With their unique look and easy care requirements, they are sure to be a favorite for years to come.

References

As I researched the best tall succulents for my article, I consulted a variety of sources to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here are some of the references I used:

  • The Succulent Source: This online retailer offers a wide variety of succulents, including many tall options. I used their product descriptions and customer reviews to learn more about the height, growth habits, and care requirements of different species.
  • Succulent City: This website has a wealth of information about succulents, including a section on tall varieties. I used their articles and guides to learn more about the unique characteristics of different species and how to care for them.
  • The Spruce: This gardening website has a comprehensive guide to succulents, including a section on tall varieties. I used their information to supplement my research and ensure that I was providing accurate and up-to-date information.
  • The Succulent Eclectic: This blog is written by a succulent enthusiast who shares her experiences growing a variety of species. I used her personal accounts to learn more about the growth habits and care requirements of different tall succulents.
  • My own experience: As someone who has grown succulents for several years, I was able to draw on my own knowledge and observations to supplement my research. I also consulted with other succulent enthusiasts to get their input and advice.

Overall, I used a variety of sources to ensure that my article on the best tall succulents was accurate, informative, and helpful for readers looking to add these unique plants to their collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some tall succulent types that grow quickly?

If you’re looking for tall succulents that grow quickly, you might want to consider the Euphorbia tirucalli, commonly known as the pencil cactus. Another option is the Aloe arborescens, which can grow up to 10 feet tall and produces beautiful orange flowers in the winter.

What are some large succulent plants for sale?

If you’re looking to buy large succulent plants, you might want to check out the Agave americana, also known as the century plant. Another option is the Yucca elephantipes, which can grow up to 30 feet tall and is often used as a focal point in landscaping.

What are some indoor tall succulents?

If you’re looking for tall succulents to grow indoors, you might want to consider the Sansevieria cylindrica, also known as the African spear plant. Another option is the Crassula ovata, commonly known as the jade plant, which can grow up to 3 feet tall and is easy to care for.

What are some outdoor tall succulents?

If you’re looking for tall succulents to grow outdoors, you might want to consider the Agave americana, mentioned earlier, or the Dasylirion wheeleri, also known as the desert spoon. Another option is the Echinocactus grusonii, commonly known as the golden barrel cactus.

What are some tall shade succulents?

If you’re looking for tall succulents that can grow in shade, you might want to consider the Sempervivum arachnoideum, commonly known as the cobweb houseleek. Another option is the Kalanchoe beharensis, which has large, velvety leaves and can grow up to 6 feet tall in shade.

What are some of the most sought-after tall succulent types?

Some of the most sought-after tall succulent types include the Agave americana, the Aloe arborescens, and the Euphorbia tirucalli. Other popular options include the Yucca elephantipes, the Crassula ovata, and the Sansevieria cylindrica.

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