If you’re looking to add some beautiful, easy-to-care-for plants to your home or garden, succulents are a great choice. Here are 25 of the most popular tall succulent types to grow.
Among the wide variety of succulent plants, tall succulents stand out with their impressive height and upright stature. These towering beauties make an impressive addition to any landscape design.
In this blog post, we’ll explore tall succulent types, discuss how to care for them, and how to design gardens with tall succulents.
We’ll start by taking a look at the different kinds of tall succulents, then move on to talk about their unique characteristics and tips on how to grow them successfully. Ready to learn more? Let’s dive in!
Different Types of Tall Succulents
Here are some types of tall succulents that are great low-maintenance plants best suited for warm climates.
Jade Plant
The first tall succulent on our list is the Jade Plant (Crassula ovata). It’s an easy-to-care-for, evergreen succulent with distinctive thick, oval-shaped leaves.
With a mature size of up to 3 feet in height and 4 feet in width, it makes for an impressive statement piece. Its unique foliage and delicate, tubular white flowers make it a favorite among gardeners.
Aloe Vera Plant
Another popular succulent is the Aloe vera plant (Aloe barbadensis). It’s a stemless or short-stemmed species with fleshy green leaves and thick yellow flower spikes.
This species can reach heights of up to 5 feet, although it’s usually much smaller in a container. Aloe vera is known for its medicinal properties, and the gel inside its leaves can be used to treat minor burns and skin irritations.
Agave Plant
The Agave plant (Agave americana) is an iconic succulent species with striking architectural features. It grows in an upright, rosette formation and can reach heights of up to 10 feet! Its leaves are thick and fleshy with sharp points on the end.
The Agave americana is native to Mexico and Central America and is popular among collectors due to its interesting shape and form. The Agave plant produces a single flower once in 100 years, then the main plant dies.
African Milk Tree
The African Milk Tree (Euphorbia trigona) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It grows to heights of up to 8 feet and produces thin, pointed leaves that have a waxy texture.
During the summer months, it produces small whitish-green flowers. This species is particularly popular among bonsai enthusiasts due to its interesting shape and form.
Snake Plant
The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) is a tall succulent with an erect, sword-like growth habit. It’s also known as the Mother-in-Law’s tongue due to its sharp pointed leaves that are striped in shades of green and yellow.
This species can reach heights of up to 3 feet and produces small white flowers that bloom in the summertime.
Desert Rose
The Desert Rose (Adenium obesum) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces fleshy grey-green leaves and striking pink or white flowers with a distinctive yellow center.
The Desert Rose can reach heights of up to 9 feet and its large, deep-red seed pods are often used in flower arrangements.
Madagascar Palm
The Madagascar Palm (Pachypodium lamerei) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. Its stems are ringed with sharp spines and its leaves are broad and flat.
This species can reach heights of up to 20 feet and produces small, white flowers in the summertime.
Queen of the Night
The Epiphyllum oxypetalum is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces thin, waxy leaves and large white flowers that open for just one night during the summertime.
The Queen of the Night can reach heights of up to 8 feet and its blooms are highly fragrant. The Epiphyllum oxypetalum is native to Central America and it is popular among collectors due to its delicate beauty.
Joshua Tree
The Joshua Tree (Yucca brevifolia) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces long, spiky leaves that are striped in shades of green and yellow. This species can reach heights of up to 70 feet and produces white blooms during the springtime.
Organ Pipe Cactus
The Organ Pipe Cactus (Stenocereus pruinosus) is an unusually tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces long, thin stems that can reach heights of up to 26 feet and its flowers are large and white in color.
The Organ Pipe Cactus is native to Arizona and Mexico and has been designated as endangered since 1979.
String of Pearls
The String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is a tall succulent with a trailing growth habit. It produces small, round leaves that are striped in shades of green and white. This species can reach heights of up to 2 feet and its blooms are tiny and yellow in color.
Kalanchoe Beharensis
The Kalanchoe beharensis is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces thick, oval-shaped leaves that are shades of green and purple.
This species can reach heights of up to 5 feet and its blooms are greenish-yellow in color. The Kalanchoe beharensis is native to Madagascar and is popular among collectors due to its unique foliage.
Fishhook Barrel Cactus
The Fishhook Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus wislizeni) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit.
It produces long, curved spines and large purple or pink flowers that bloom during the spring months. This species can reach heights of up to 10 feet and its fruits are edible when ripe.
Palmer’s Agave
The Palmer’s Agave (Agave palmeri) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces narrow, pointed leaves that are striped in shades of green and yellow.
This species can reach heights of up to 5 feet and it blooms a yellow to green flower stalk near the end of its life cycle, around 15 years. The Palmer’s Agave is native to Mexico and is popular among collectors due to its interesting shape and form.
Hanging Chain Cholla
The Hanging Chain Cholla (Cylindropuntia fulgida) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces long, thin stems that are covered in fine spines and small yellow flowers.
This species can reach heights of up to 13 feet and its fruits are edible when ripe. The Hanging Chain Cholla is native to the southwestern United States and is popular among collectors due to its unique appearance.
Pachypodium Lamerei
The Pachypodium lamerei is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. Its stems are ringed with sharp spines and its leaves are broad and flat. This species can reach heights of up to 6 to 20 feet and produces white flowers in the summertime once mature.
The Pachypodium lamerei is native to Madagascar and is popular among collectors due to its striking foliage and showy flowers.
Crown of Thorns
The Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces thick, fleshy leaves and bright red flowers.
This species can reach heights of up to 4 feet and its blooms are fragrant and long-lasting. The Crown of Thorns is native to Africa and is popular among collectors due to its vibrant colors and dramatic form.
African Baobab Tree
The African Baobab Tree (Adansonia digitata) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces thick, waxy leaves and large white flowers that bloom after the rainy season, from October to January.
This species can reach heights of up to 75 feet and its fruits are edible when ripe. The African Baobab tree is native to Africa and is popular among collectors due to its unique shape and form.
Prickly Pear
The Prickly Pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces long, flat leaves and bright pink and yellow flowers that bloom during the springtime.
This species can reach heights of up to 20 feet and its fruits are edible when ripe. The Prickly Pear is native to Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean and it is popular among collectors due to its vibrant colors and easy care.
Good Luck Cactus
The Good Luck Cactus (Epiphyllum anguliger) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces long, curved stems and small yellow flowers that bloom from late autumn to early winter.
This species can reach heights of up to 6 feet and its fruits are edible when ripe. The Good Luck Cactus is popular among collectors due to its unique foliage and long-lasting blooms.
Austrocylindropuntia Subulata
The Austrocylindropuntia subulata is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces long, thin stems that are covered in small spines and bright coppery red flowers.
This species can reach heights of up to 13 feet and its fruits are edible when ripe. The Austrocylindropuntia subulata is native to South America and is popular among collectors due to its striking foliage and showy blooms.
Candelabra Spurge
The Candelabra Spurge (Euphorbia lactea) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces thick, fleshy leaves that are striped in shades of green and red.
This species can reach heights of up to 15 feet and has sap that is poisonous, so be careful. The Candelabra Spurge is native to India and is popular among collectors due to its unique foliage and dramatic form.
Euphorbia Tirucalli
The Euphorbia tirucalli is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces long, thin branches that are covered in fine spines and small yellow flowers.
This species can reach heights of up to 20 feet and its sap is toxic, so use caution when handling this tall succulent. The Euphorbia tirucalli is native to Africa and is popular among collectors due to its unique appearance and easy care.
Senita Cactus
The Senita Cactus (Lophocereus schottii) is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces long, thin stems that are covered in white spines and large, fragrant flowers.
This species can reach heights of up to 15 feet and its fruits are edible when ripe. The Senita Cactus is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico and is popular among collectors due to its unique appearance.
Cyphostemma Juttae
The Cyphostemma juttae is a tall succulent with an upright growth habit. It produces thick, fleshy leaves that are striped in shades of green and purple.
This species can reach heights of up to 6 feet and its flowers are small and reddish-purple in color. The Cyphostemma juttae is native to South Africa and is popular among collectors due to its striking foliage and easy care.
Rock Gardens with Tall Succulent Types
Tall succulent types are very well suited for rock gardens. Planting a combination of tall and low-growing succulents together provides an interesting contrast in texture, color, and form.
Rock gardens also provide excellent drainage for the succulents’ sensitive root systems. To ensure that your rock garden is successful, it is important to understand the needs of each species.
Tall succulents prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Watering deeply and infrequently is also key to keeping the plants healthy and free from disease.
With a little bit of planning, you can create an attractive rock garden with tall succulent types that you can enjoy!
Growing Tall Succulents
Tall succulents are a great way to add interest, texture, and beauty to any garden. Whether you’re looking for an eye-catching focal point or just want a lush carpet of green, tall succulents are sure to please!
With their unique shapes, colors, and textures, tall succulents are a great way to add interest and depth to any landscape. And with proper care and attention, they’ll reward you with years of beauty and enjoyment.
When choosing tall succulents, it’s important to consider the climate in which they will be growing. Many of these plants require full sun and well-draining soil in order to thrive.
Many are sensitive to extreme temperatures, so make sure you’re familiar with the hardiness zone in your area.
Caring for Tall Succulents
Tall succulents are relatively easy to care for but require more attention than low-growing species. Here are some tips to help you grow your tall succulents successfully:
- Plant them in soil that has good drainage – this is essential for most succulents!
- Water deeply, but infrequently – wait until the soil has dried out before watering again to avoid root rot.
- Provide them with plenty of sunlight – most tall succulents need 6 or more hours of direct sun per day.
- Prune and trim regularly – this will help keep your plants looking their best and encourage healthy growth.
- Feed them with a quality succulent fertilizer – this will ensure your tall succulents have the nutrients they need to thrive.
With these tips, your tall succulent plants will flourish in no time! So don’t be afraid to give these unique and striking plants a try!
How to Design a Garden with Tall Succulent Types
Creating a garden with tall succulent types is a great way to add color, texture, and interest to any outdoor space. When designing your garden, consider the climate of your region and the unique characteristics of each plant in order to ensure success.
Here are some tips for creating a stunning garden with tall succulents:
- Choose plants that are suitable for your climate – some species may not be able to survive in colder climates.
- Plant them in clusters or groupings – this will help create a unified look and provide interest throughout the year.
- Use rocks to enhance their color and texture – rocks, stones, and gravel can be used to give succulents an interesting backdrop.
- Place taller plants in the back – this will help create a natural-looking landscape.
- Use mulch to prevent weeds and retain moisture – organic mulches with good drainage can help keep your garden healthy for years to come.
Have fun experimenting with the various tall succulent types you can add to your garden!
Container Gardening with Tall Succulent Types
Container gardening is a great option for anyone looking to grow tall succulent types. With a little bit of planning and the right tools, anyone can create a stunning container garden with tall succulents.
Here are some tips for creating a beautiful container garden with tall succulents:
- Choose containers that are large enough – this will ensure the plants have enough room to grow.
- Use soil with good drainage – this is essential for most succulents!
- Place the containers in a sunny spot – tall succulents prefer full sun and will need 6 or more hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Water deeply, but infrequently – wait until the soil has dried out before watering again to avoid root rot.
- Consider adding a trellis – this will provide support for the taller plants and help create an interesting look.
With these tips, you can easily create a stunning container garden with tall succulent types that will be the envy of your neighbors!
Tall Succulent Types Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions about tall succulent types you should add to your garden.
What are the tall fast growing succulents?
There are many tall succulents that also grow fast, such as the spineless yucca, joshua tree, mother of millions, and the century plant, to name a few.
What is a tall succulent that looks like a tree?
The Senita Cactus is a tall succulent that resembles a small tree. The joshua tree, jade plant, and madagascar tree also look like trees.
How do I know what kind of succulent I have?
The best way to determine which type of succulent you have is by carefully examining the plant and its characteristics. Pay attention to the shape and size of the leaves, as well as the color and texture.
If you’re still unsure, it’s always a good idea to consult with an expert who can help identify your succulent for you. Don’t be afraid to ask around at local garden centers as well.
What are the spiky tall succulents?
The Euphorbia tirucalli, Austrocylindropuntia subulata, and Senita Cactus are all tall succulents with spiked leaves or stems. There are other tall succulents that have a spiky appearance as well.
There are other tall succulent types not included on the list above. Do some research to see what you prefer and enjoy growing your tall succulents!
Tall Succulent Types to Grow
The tall succulent types listed here are a great way to add texture, color, and interest to any garden. With their unique shapes, colors, and textures, they can be a stunning focal point or just provide lush green carpeting throughout your landscape.
With the right care and attention, you’ll have an attractive and long-lasting rock garden that you can enjoy for a long time! So don’t be afraid to give these beautiful tall succulent types a try – they’ll reward you with years of enjoyment and beauty.