Have you ever wondered why most plants come in shades of green? It’s as if nature has reserved the color black exclusively for the night sky. But fear not! We’ve unearthed a collection of dark succulents that are sure to captivate your attention. Whether you’re sprucing up your garden or preparing for a spooky Halloween, these black succulents will add an enticing touch of darkness to your space.
Key Takeaways
Echeveria ‘Black Prince’
Prepare to be enchanted by the mysterious allure of the Echeveria ‘Black Prince.’ Although it appears more purple than black, its deep coloring gives it an enchantingly dark ambiance. This succulent features wide and pointed leaves, meticulously arranged in a captivating rosette shape. You may have also heard it referred to as the ‘Black Knight,’ as it is often confused with another variety.
When caring for the Echeveria ‘Black Prince,’ make sure to provide it with bright, indirect light and maintain warm temperatures. To prevent overwatering, adopt the “soak and dry” method, using well-draining soil. Give this regal succulent the attention it deserves, and watch it cast a dramatic shadow over your garden.
Aeonium arboreum ‘Zwartkop’
Prepare to be mesmerized by the Aeonium arboreum ‘Zwartkop,’ aptly nicknamed the Black Rose Aeonium. The succulent’s large rosettes resemble striking flowers rather than traditional succulent leaves. Its dark, dramatic leaves possess a deep red tint that beautifully complements the yellow blooms that emerge in late winter.
For optimal growth, ensure that your Black Rose Aeonium is planted in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. To maintain its dark, captivating color, position it in a spot that receives ample sunlight. If you reside in zones 9-11, your Zwartkop will thrive outdoors throughout the year, gracing your garden with its bewitching presence.
Sinocrassula yunnanensis ‘Chinese Jade’
Don’t let the lengthy name intimidate you; the Sinocrassula yunnanensis, also known as Chinese Jade, is a simple succulent that exudes elegance. This petite plant showcases thick, pointy leaves that grow uniformly, reaching upwards. It propagates by offsets, forming clusters of spiky rosettes that can be found in both black and green variations.
Caring for Chinese Jade is effortless. Just provide it with bright sunlight, adopt the “soak and dry” watering technique, and maintain warm weather conditions. Because of its offset propagation, propagating this succulent is a breeze. Embrace the simplicity and charm of Chinese Jade, and let it bring a touch of grace to your garden.
Echinopsis ancistrophora ‘Arachnacantha’
Prepare to embrace the spookier side of succulents with the Echinopsis ancistrophora ‘Arachnacantha.’ This peculiar succulent resembles a small, round cactus adorned with spidery thorns, earning its fitting name. Its dark coloration intensifies when exposed to bright sunlight, making it perfect for Halloween-themed displays.
However, be mindful of the cold. Arachnacantha prefers warmer temperatures, so if you live in an area where fall and winter bring freezing temperatures, it’s best to keep it indoors during these seasons. During the winter months, this succulent enters a dormant period and requires minimal care. Embrace its eerie charm, and watch as it weaves a web of intrigue in your garden.
Sempervivum ‘Black’
Grim and alluring, the Sempervivum ‘Black’ succulent possesses a deep purple hue that gives it a haunting appearance. Each rosette showcases vibrant green at its center, surrounded by dramatic burgundy leaves. You may have heard it referred to as ‘black chicks and hens.’
These succulents are exceptionally resilient, tolerating poor nutrient soil and extreme drought conditions. They are also more cold-tolerant compared to other succulents. Sempervivum is monocarpic, meaning that it dies after blooming. However, its rapid offset growth ensures that the dying rosettes are hardly noticeable.
Don’t let their dark allure deceive you. Remember to provide your black succulents with the care they need. A thriving succulent is a happy one, and these dark beauties will continue to enchant you with their moody charm.
Embrace the Dark Side with Black Succulents
Step into the enchanting world of black succulents and unlock the hidden beauty they possess. These captivating plants will infuse your garden with an air of mystery and elegance. Whether you’re aiming for a gothic aesthetic or simply want to add contrast to your garden, these black succulents are sure to make a striking statement. Explore the depths of darkness and let these mesmerizing plants cast their spell on you.
To embark on your black succulent journey, visit the Ames Farm Center, where you’ll find a wide selection of these enchanting and bewitching plants. Embrace the allure of the dark side and transform your garden into an intriguing haven.
