Succulents do not represent a specific plant family. Rather, succulent species are represented in numerous families and genera. Would you like to know without a doubt which succulent it is? Then use our tips for practical identification.

There are thousands of different succulents

Determining by images - simple, but time-consuming

Since succulent species cavort in diverse plant families or they consist exclusively of this easy-care type, exact determination without botanical background knowledge is a difficult undertaking. For non-scientists, the Internet offers a selection of image collections, so that identification based on optical characteristics is possible. This method is very easy, but takes a lot of time. In the worst case, several thousand photos have to be viewed before a hit is found.

Identifying succulents with books - a reading list

If you consult specialist literature, the time required to identify succulents is significantly reduced. Most books contain simple identification keys that will make your search easier. The following list of references introduces you to well-known specialist books:

  • Succulents, with 600 color photos. Author: Urs Eggli, ISBN 978-3800153961
  • The Great Nature's Guide: Cacti and Other Popular Succulents: ISBN 978-3704313027
  • cacti and succulents. A practice manual. The main types and their care. Author Michael Januschkowetz ISBN 978-3494016009
  • World of cacti and other succulents, authors Jan Riha and Rudolf Sublik, ISBN/EAN: 3816600085
  • 500 hardy succulents, authors Martin Haberer and Hans Graf, ISBN 978-3800154876

An indispensable standard work for identifying succulents was penned by Urs Eggli and was published by Ulmer Verlag. The Great Succulent Lexicon deals in detail with succulent plants in several volumes. The following 4 volumes have been published so far: Monocotyledonous Plants (Volume 1), Dicotyledonous Plants (Volume 2), Crassulaceae (Succulent Plants) (Volume 4). Volume 3 entitled Asclepiadaceae (milk plants) is by the authors Focke Albers and Ulli Meve.

Consult a specialist - this is how it works inexpensively

Determining by images takes time and the acquisition of specialist literature can put a strain on the purse. If neither option suits you, consult a professional. Various specialist suppliers of cacti and succulents offer identification as an inexpensive service. For example, you can e-mail a photo to specialist retailer Kakteen-Haage. For a small fee of 1.50 euros, the expert will tell you the name.

There are also exhibitions and lectures on succulents throughout the year. These are often combined with a consultation hour. If you bring photos or the plant with you, the experts will be happy to provide you with advice and assistance for little money or even free of charge.

tips

Do you want to experience one of the world's largest succulent collections live? Then combine your next holiday in Switzerland with a visit to Zurich. Here at Mythenquai 88 you will find a fascinating collection of more than 6,500 species from almost 100 families. The exhibition is open every day. Admission is free.

Category:

Vegetable garden