Succulents & Cacti

The Best Low-Water Succulents

Succulents earned their reputation by storing water in plump leaves and stems, which lets them coast through long dry stretches that would wilt an ordinary houseplant. The picks below are the most forgiving of the bunch, the ones that genuinely prefer to be left alone between deep soakings. They suit sunny windowsills, desks, and travelers who forget a watering can for weeks at a time. Low water does not mean no care, but it does mean these plants stay handsome on a soak-and-dry rhythm. We have favored tough, slow-thirsty species that rot only when overwatered, so the real skill is restraint rather than vigilance.

1. Jade Plant

   Bright directEvery 2-3 weeksVery easy

   Thick, glossy paddle leaves store weeks of water, so this shrubby succulent forgives long droughts and only sulks when overwatered. It is toxic to cats and dogs per the ASPCA, so keep it out of reach.

2. Aloe Vera

   Bright directEvery 2-3 weeksVery easy

   Fat, gel-filled spears hoard moisture, letting it shrug off a missed month of watering on a sunny sill. It is toxic to cats and dogs per the ASPCA, so site it well above curious pets.

3. Echeveria

   Bright directEvery 2-3 weeksEasy

   Tight rosettes of plump, often pastel leaves thrive on neglect and strong sun, coloring up beautifully when kept dry. Water at the base only, since trapped moisture in the rosette center invites rot.

4. Haworthia

   Bright indirectEvery 2-3 weeksVery easy

   Small, banded zebra rosettes store ample water and tolerate lower light than most succulents, ideal for desks. It is listed non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA, making it a safe, compact pick.

5. Burro's Tail

   Bright indirectEvery 2-3 weeksEasy

   Trailing ropes of bead-like leaves hold so much water they cascade for months between soakings. Handle gently, as the plump leaves drop easily, and let it dry fully to keep the strands firm and full.

6. Snake Plant

   Low to bright indirectEvery 2-3 weeksVery easy

   Stiff upright leaves store water like a succulent and tolerate both deep shade and long dry spells. Nearly indestructible, it rots only from overwatering, making it perfect for the most forgetful waterer.

7. String of Pearls

   Bright indirectEvery 2-3 weeksModerate

   Cascading strands of spherical, water-storing pearls drape elegantly from a high shelf and resent soggy soil. Water sparingly and let it dry between drinks; shriveled beads mean it is finally ready for more.

8. Agave

   Bright directEvery 3-4 weeksVery easy

   Bold, architectural rosettes evolved in deserts and store enough water to survive a month or more untouched. It wants blazing sun and grit, and overwatering is the only real way to harm this rugged plant.

9. Kalanchoe

   Bright directEvery 2-3 weeksEasy

   Plump, scalloped leaves bank water while cheerful clustered blooms reward bright light and dry roots. It is toxic to cats and dogs per the ASPCA, so place it where pets cannot nibble the flowers or foliage.

10. Panda Plant

    Bright indirectEvery 2-3 weeksEasy

    Fuzzy, silver-green leaves edged in brown store water well and prefer to dry out completely between drinks. The velvety coating dislikes wet foliage, so water at the soil and enjoy its soft, plush texture.

11. Sempervivum

    Bright directEvery 2-3 weeksVery easy

    Hardy hens-and-chicks form tight rosettes that store water and survive heat, drought, and even frost outdoors. They multiply into clusters of offsets and rot only in soggy soil, asking almost nothing in return.