Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Sensational Succulents for Containers


It's hard to imagine a more carefree container plant than succulents. These plants need little water and little attention. But they deliver big in the design department, with sculptural shapes and unexpected color combinations that lend excitement to any decor.  Their flowers - which typically come in winter or spring - are just an added bonus.

As evidence, I submit these beautiful pictures photographed by my talented friend Isabel Gomes. See for yourself why every home should have some succulents.


Containers for succulents are limited only by your imagination. In this Santa Barbara garden, Aeonium 'Kiwi' adds color to Chumash Indian-inspired rock planters.


Mix succulents in different colors and shapes to create bold displays. Tiny, intricate aeonium encircles a larger variety of aeonium in this attractive arrangement.


A simple pot of aeonium adds drama to the garden, especially when paired with cheerful orange nasturtiums.


Portulacaria afra is also known as elephant bush. That's because the plant is a source of food for elephants in its native Africa. But elephant bush looks equally at home in this classic cherubic container, doesn't it?


Want to learn more about succulents? Visit Debra Lee Baldwin's site. This well-known photojournalist writes frequently on these plants, and offers great advice here and on Twitter @DebraLBaldwin.

Learn more about Isabel Gomes at Isabel Lawrence Photographers. Or, follow her on Twitter @IsabelLawrence.

14 comments:

  1. Great photos, good tips, Teresa. Thanks so much for mentioning my site! Btw, I just had a book come out: Succulent Container Gardens. Anyone, anywhere can enjoy these lovely plants, because containers are portable and can be overwintered indoors. Succulents are shallow-rooted, so they thrive in pots, and online nurseries now offer a wide assortment.

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  2. It's my pleasure, Debra. You are the succulent expert, after all. And I can't wait to read your newest one "Succulent Container Gardens." Thanks for stopping by. Teresa

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  3. I just HAD to add my succulent-loving voice to Debra's! It doesn't matter what your climate is, everyone can have a succulent in a container (or two, or TEN!)
    Wonderful post!
    XO!

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  4. Ivette: Yes, I'm so glad you did throw in your two-cents. You're such a wonderful resource on succulents, and people should definitely visit your blog to see your mini Lotusland garden. All the best, Teresa

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  5. Great info and lovely photos. Succulents play an important role in rooftop gardens here in the southeast. I love the variety of textures and colors in the leaves. Many varieties have beautiful flowers too. Duane
    @leekfixer on twitter

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  6. Hi Duane: Thanks for stopping by. That's the nice thing about succulents, they really do well in so many places. And the flowers are always a nice surprise. Enjoy reading your tweets on Twitter too. Best, Teresa

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  7. My succulents are the most hardy plants I have! I love them!

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  8. Suzanne. You're right. Succulents are an easy plant to love. Thanks for stopping by... Teresa

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  9. Beautiful photos! I love the one with the nasturtiums (one of my favorites!) peeking around the pot!
    My 9 yr old just loves succulents and has sevral pots in her room.

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  10. Annica: That's great your daughter is already growing plants. And succulents are so easy and fun to grow. Thanks for your comments. Teresa

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  11. beautiful, beautiful, beautiful! I'm in love with succulents and these are some stunning container ideas. I have a new project to work on now. Thanks!

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  12. Stevie: Thanks for stopping by. Glad we could supply another reason to buy succulents... even in Vancouver. ;) Warm regards, Teresa

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  13. I just can't get enough of that top photo!!!
    LOVE IT... makes me miss summer so very much!
    PS. I added your to my 'Garden Blogs that Inspire' at http://www.bggarden.com/blog/friends

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  14. Thanks a bunch, Bren. We're honored to see both Seasonal Wisdom and Nest In Style on that list with all those great bloggers. You're awfully sweet for including us...

    I'm a big fan of your blog as well. Hang in there, spring is coming. Best, Teresa

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