Succulent plants, with their unique form and tenacious vitality, have attracted the attention of countless plant lovers and horticultural experts. They not only have different shapes and colors, but also can adapt to various harsh environments and become the best in the plant world. So which of the many succulents is the most common? This article will take you inside the world of succulents and discover the most common succulents and their unique charm.
1. Definition And Characteristics Of Succulents
Succulent plants, also known as succulent plants, succulent plants, refers to a certain part of the vegetative organs of plants, such as stems, leaves or roots (a few species have both parts) with developed parenchyma tissue to store water, and appear thick and succulent plants in appearance. They mostly grow in areas that are dry or have little rainfall at a time, and can rely on their succulent fleshy organs to store water when the root system is unable to obtain it from the soil.
Succulents are different from ordinary plants in their morphological structure, and their physiological characteristics have the function of storing more water and reducing water transpiration, which is formed in order to adapt to the dry growth environment. For example, some species have leaves, but in order to reduce water evaporation, their leaves are easy to fall off, and photosynthesis is mainly done through green stems. In addition, the fruits of succulents do not form fleshy berries like the cacti, and with the exception of a few species of the vitis family, the vast majority of the fruits are neither ornamental nor edible.
2. Classification And Common Species Of Succulents
Succulents have a wide variety of species and can be divided into many families and genera according to their morphological characteristics and growth habits. Here are some of the most common types of succulents:
crassulaceae
Stone lotus: including Chihuahua, blue stone lotus, jade butterfly, etc., thick leaves, different shapes, rich colors, is a popular choice for family potted plants.
Sedum: such as swallow’s palm, tube leaf flower moon, etc., the leaves are cylindrical or flat, and some varieties have red or yellow markings on the edge of the leaves.
aryngiaceae
Lithocarpus genus: Lithocarpus is one of the representative plants of the apricot family. Its leaves are thick, stone-like, with markings and color changes on the surface, and it is of great ornamental value.
Sarcocona genus: Sarcocona is similar to stony flowers, but the leaves are more slender, and the top of the spines are more unique.
Cacti family
Cactus genus: including goldfinger, goldfinger brocade, etc., the stem is thick, cylindrical or spherical, the surface has thorns or villus, is one of the common succulent plants.
Columnar cactus: columnar cactus stem upright, cylindrical or conical, some varieties up to several meters, is the big MAC in the cactus family.
Euphorbiaceae
Euphorbia: such as tiger thorn, unicorn palm, etc., the leaves are thick, and some varieties have jagged protrusion on the edge of the leaves and thorns on the stem, which has certain ornamental and medicinal value.
The agave family
Agave genus: including phnom Penh agave, silver edge agave, etc., the leaves are thick, sword shaped or ribbon, the edge has thorns or serrated protrudates, is one of the important raw materials for the production of tequila.
3. The Most Common Succulent Plant – Sedum Family Stone Lotus
Among the many succulents, the succulents of the genus lotus in the seidaceae family are one of the most common varieties with their unique morphology and wide adaptability. The succulent plants of the genus Sphaerophyllium have thick leaves with different shapes, some varieties have round or oval leaves, and some varieties have wavy or red markings on the edge of the leaves. They are not only ornamental, but also easy to maintain, making them a popular choice for home potted plants.
chihuahua
Chihuahua is one of the most common species of the genus, with thick, round or oval leaves covered with white powder and red markings on the edges of the leaves. Chihuahua plants are small and cute, making them ideal for home potted plants.
bluestone
The leaves of the blue stone lotus are oval or long oval, the surface is covered with white powder, and the edges of the leaves have red markings. The plants are compact and the leaves are arranged neatly, presenting an elegant and mysterious aesthetic feeling.
Jade Butterfly
The leaves of the jade butterfly are thick, round or oval, and the edges of the leaves are undulating. Its plant shape is beautiful, the leaf arrangement is scattered, showing a fresh and natural aesthetic feeling.
4. Maintenance And Propagation Of Succulents
The maintenance of succulents is relatively simple, but there are some caveats. Here are some tips for the care and propagation of succulents:
Light: Succulents like full sunlight, but need proper shade during high summer temperatures to avoid direct sunlight causing leaf burns.
Watering: Succulent plants have a low demand for water, and should follow the principle of “rather dry than wet” when watering to avoid water causing rot.
Fertilization: Succulents need proper fertilization during the growing season, you can choose a fertilizer specific to succulents, or you can use decomposed organic fertilizer.
Propagation: Succulents propagate in a variety of ways, including sowing, branching, cutting, etc. Among them, cutting is one of the most commonly used propagation methods, inserting healthy leaves or stem segments into wet soil, keeping the soil moist, you can take root and sprout.
5. Culture And Appreciation Of Succulents
Succulent plants not only have ornamental value, but also contain rich cultural connotation. Their unique form and indomitable vitality symbolize the spirit of perseverance and perseverance. In horticultural culture, succulents are regarded as a unique form of artistic expression that, through clever combinations and layouts, can create a fresh, natural and harmonious atmosphere.
In addition, succulents also have certain medicinal and edible values. For example, some types of succulents can be used to treat skin diseases, reduce inflammation and pain. Some plants of the cactus family can be used as ingredients to make delicious dishes and drinks.
Conclusion
Succulent plants have become a shining pearl in the plant world with their unique form and indomitable vitality. Among the many succulents, the succulents of the genus Rhododendron in the seidaceae family have become one of the most common varieties for their wide adaptability and ornamental properties. By understanding the classification, characteristics, conservation and reproduction techniques, as well as cultural and appreciation values of succulents, we can better appreciate and protect these beautiful plants, so that they can shine more brightly in our lives.
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