Succulents and cacti are the ultimate low-maintenance houseplants, built by evolution to store water and survive neglect. The entire secret to keeping them happy indoors comes down to two things: plenty of light and very little water. Get those right and they practically take care of themselves.
Light
Give them the brightest spot you have, a south- or west-facing window. Most succulents and cacti want several hours of direct or very bright light each day. The classic sign of too little light is etiolation: the plant stretches, leans, and spaces out its leaves reaching for the sun.
Water
Water deeply but infrequently, and only when the soil is completely dry, then let it dry out fully again before the next watering. Less is more. Overwatering is the number-one killer, causing soft, mushy, translucent rot. In winter, when growth slows, water even less.
Soil & potting
Use a gritty, fast-draining cactus/succulent mix (regular potting soil holds far too much water) and always a pot with drainage holes. Terracotta pots help by wicking away excess moisture.
Common problems & fixes
- Stretching / leaning: not enough light, move to a sunnier window.
- Mushy or translucent leaves: overwatering and rot, let it dry and cut watering back hard.
- Wrinkled, shriveled leaves: thirsty, give a deep drink.
- Pale or scorched patches: sudden move into intense sun; acclimate gradually.
A note on pets
"Succulent" covers many plant families, and they vary: aloe and jade are toxic to pets, while others are safer. If you have curious pets, check each species and see our pet-friendly houseplants guide.
Shop succulents & cacti
Browse our live plant catalog for easy picks like the Elephant Bush, Aloe Vera, and the wavy Ric Rac Cactus.
Every Florida Plant order ships fresh from Florida and California, carefully packed for the journey and backed by our 48-hour live-arrival guarantee. During cold weather, extra shipping protection may be recommended for your area, just contact us before ordering and we'll advise on the safest way to ship to you.