Succulents are some of the most fascinating and beautiful plants in the world. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and have the ability to store water in their leaves, stems, and roots. But did you know that some succulents are rarer and more unusual than others and are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts? These succulents are not only visually appealing, but they also have unique characteristics that make them stand out from other plants. Let’s explore some of the rarest and most unusual succulents that exist.

Flower Lovers Want to Know

What is the rarest succulent in the world?

The rarest succulent in the world is the Lithops aucampiae, also known as the “Pebble Plant”. This plant is native to South Africa and is known for its unique appearance that resembles a small stone. It is highly sought after by collectors due to its scarcity and unusual appearance.

What is the most expensive succulent on the market?

The most expensive succulent on the market is the haageocereus tenuis, which is on the brink of extinction, fetches upwards of $250,000 USD. It’s closest competitor on the list is the Variegated Monstrose Cristata (crested variegated cactus). Its crest-like growth pattern and variegated coloring fetches prices up to $30,000 or more.

Can you name some of the most endangered succulents?

There are several endangered succulent species, including Mammillaria herrerae, Agave pax, Aloe pillansii, Estevesia alex-bragae, Parodia rechensis, Monanthes wildpretii, Discocactus subterraneo-proliferans, and Rhipsalis triangularis.

Could you provide names and pictures of some of the most unusual rare succulents?

Sure, here are some of the most unusual rare succulents:

Lithops aucampiae
Variegated Monstrose Cristata
Euphorbia obesa
Haworthia cooperi
Lithops optica
Aloe polyphylla
Welwitschia mirabilis
Cycas revoluta

What are some rare succulents I could add to my garden?

Some uniquely rare succulents that you could add to your garden include the String of Pearls, which has small, round leaves that resemble pearls, and the Black Rose, which has dark, velvety leaves that look like flowers. Or, the Lithops, which has a unique appearance that resembles small pebbles or stones.

Discover the Rarest and Most Unusual Succulents in the World

One of the rarest succulents in the world is the Pelotilla de Chinamada, which only grows on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands of Spain. Every single known Pelotilla de Chinamada grows in an area that is only about 1 km² in size. In 2009, the population count of Pelotilla de Chinamada was reported as 593 individuals, and 504 of those were mature plants. With fewer than 600 plants estimated to exist, this succulent is a true rarity. It has small, round leaves that form a tight rosette, and it produces delicate pink flowers in the spring. This makes it one of the most endangered succulents in the world.

Another rare succulent is the Aloe Helenae, which is native to Madagascar. It is known for its thick, serrated leaves that possess a unique and captivating appearance. This distinct feature has made it a favorite among succulent collectors. The Tephrocactus Articulatus, also known as the Paper Spine Cactus, is another unusual succulent that is highly sought after by collectors. The Paper Spine Cactus is native to South America and has cylindrical, segmented stems that resemble a stack of pancakes, white spines and produces beautiful pink flowers in the summer.

Defining Rare Succulents

Scarcity of a particular species – Some species are rare simply because they are hard to find. For example, the Haworthia truncata is a rare succulent that is highly sought after by collectors. This species, native to South Africa, has unique, truncated leaves.
Unique appearance – Succulents are deemed to be rare because of their unusual appearance includes the Lithops, referred to as “living stones.” These succulents are native to southern Africa and can camouflage with their surroundings.
Limited distribution in the wild – Some succulent species are rare because they have a limited distribution in the wild. For example, the Pelotilla de Chinamada is a rare succulent that is only found in the Canary Islands. This species is endangered due to habitat loss and over-collection, making it a highly sought-after plant for collectors.

36 Unique & Rare Succulent Species

Succulent plants are known for their unique beauty, and some species are rarer than others. Here are some notable rare succulent species that are worth mentioning.

1 – Adenium obesum

Take care when handling this rare species as it has a dark side. Adenium obesum are pretty and poisonous. Fun fact – the Chinese call this plant the flower of wealth because they believe it brings good fortune and its trunk brings fertility.

2 – Adromischus cooperi (plover eggs)

Plover eggs is a miniature rare succulent with purple spots. Once a year pink flowers will bloom from this little cactus. Fun fact – as this plant ages it develops a thick trunk.

3 – Agave pax

Currently agave pax is on the endangered species list. Agave pax is native to North and Central America. Fun fact – agave is Greek for marvelous and nobel.

4 – Albuca Spiralis (frizzle sizzle)

A little reminiscent of fiddleheads, albuca spiralis, is not something your furry friend should be snacking on. This South African native is toxic to cats and dogs. Fun fact – the flowers of this catcus have a vanilla scent.

5 – Alluaudia procera

Long, tall spikes compose the structure of the Alluaudia procera. If you let this cactus go it can reach towering heights of 60 ft tall. Some 25+ ft species can be found growing in the wild in California. Fun fact – this rare succulent looses its tiny leaves once a year.

6 – Aloe polyphylla

Kingdom of Lesotho in the Drakensberg mountains in South Africa is home to the aloe polyphylla. This spiral aloe is on the endangered plant list in South Africa. Fun fact – aloe polyphylla grows better on the eastern face of the mountains at altitudes of more than 6,000 ft.

7 – Ariocarpus fissuratus

Commonly called the living rock, this rugged cactus camouflages easily in its natural habitat. You need to be paying close attention to spot this succulent out in the wilderness. Fun fact – they are easy to spot in October or November when the pink flowers are in full bloom.

8 – Ariocarpus Trigonus

Known as the land mine flower, ariocarpus trigonus grows in a sphere-like formation. It is native to Mexico and grows on limestone about 1000 ft above sea level. Fun fact – this cactus grows in colonies.

9 – Astrophytum asterias (sand dollar)

Although not rare because many sand dollars are found growing in homes around the globe, they are increasingly difficult to find growing wildly. Unfortunately, poaching and overharvesting is making this plant more rare in nature. Fun fact – this species of cactus reaches sexual maturity at approximately 1.5 inches tall.

10 – Aeonium arboreum (black rose)

Growing to about 12 inches, this plant is a cold weather cactus. It is not a fan a of warm weather and goes dormant in the heat of summer. Fun fact – older buds will not fall off. Instead they fold inwards and appear to be a rose bud ready to bloom.

11 – Blossfeldia liliputana (dwarf cactus)

Flying solo in the mountains of Argentina and Bolivia, this species can be difficult to find. It grows sporadically in a single clump between boulders. Fun fact – this is considered the smallest cactus.

12 – Conophytum

Conophytum is a genus of succulent plants that are native to South Africa. Their interesting appearance resembles small pebbles or stones. They are also known for their ability to produce beautiful flowers, which can range in color from white to pink to purple. Fun fact – when the plant is not in bloom it looks like a pair of lips are etched on its face.

13 – Lithops aucampiae

Lithops, affectionately called “living stones” or “flowering stones,” are a genus of succulent plants that are native to southern Africa. They have a unique appearance resembling small stones or pebbles. Lithops plants come in a variety of colors and patterns, including green, brown, and red and produce beautiful flowers. Fun facts – this cactus can live up to 50 years old and it can stay in the same pot for more than 20 years.

14 – Dioscorea elephantipes (elephant’s foot)

This South African beauty gets its nickname, elephant’s foot, from the cracked greyish surface of the bulb. This plant loses its leaves at the end of summer and sleeps all winter long. New leaves grow in the spring. Fun fact – tubers were used in the path to cure the common cold.

15 – Discocactus subterraneo-proliferans

Except for the genus grown indoors in private collections, the last time a plant was found growing wild was in 1984. Not so fun fact – there is not one of these plants growing in botanical gardens.

16 – Echeveria (Mexican hens and chicks)

Echeveria is a genus of succulent plants that are native to Mexico and Central America. Beautiful rosette-shaped leaves which come in a variety of colors, including green, blue, and pink grace this genus of cacti. Fun fact – these rosettes grow no bigger than 2.5 inches wide and 5 inches tall.

17 – Echinopsis chamaecereus (peanut cactus)

Able to survive longer periods of drought, peanut cacti, hold water in their stems for easier access when needed. Baby peanuts grow as off shoots at the base of the plant. Fun fact – this plant is super soft.

18 – Echinocereus rigidissimus

Varying grades of pinks and fuchsias cover this spiny creature. It is affectionately called the rainbow hedgehog cactus because lets face it, it really does look like a hedgehog. As this rare succulent ages, it turns from pink to yellow. Fun fact – pink is this succulent’s favorite color. Even the flowers that bloom are a bright pink.

19 – Euphorbia lactea cristata

Euphorbia lactea crisata is a result of grafting 2 varieties together – the euphorbia lactea and Euphorbia neriifolia (coral cactus). Fun fact – this cactus is top heavy and needs help to stand up (with a tall bedrock) as it matures.

20 – Euphorbia obesa

Unlike the sand dollar, this globular cactus grows up to 12 inches high and 4 inches wide. Ball lovers will enjoy knowing that this plant is known as the baseball plant. Fun fact – blooming flowers have a coffee scent.

21 – Fenestraria rhopalophylla (baby toes)

Baby toes are native to Namibia. They are called baby toes because because the formations the extrude from this living rock resemble tiny baby toes. Fun fact – there are only 2 species of this cactus. White flowered baby toes grow on one side of the Orange River, which divides Namibia and South Africa. The yellow flowering baby toes grow on the opposite side of the river.

22 – Gymnocalycium mihanovichii (Hibotan)

Prominent ribs, long spines, and beautiful blossoms, are the hallmark of this Paraguayan succulent. Fun fact – this is a mini cactus growing no more than 1.5 inches tall.

23 – Haageocereus tenuis

Sadly, not much is known about this rare succulent specie. Finger-like tubes grow from the base of the stem. Fun Fact – it grows best in desert areas.

24 – Haworthia cooperi

One the of the most interesting of the rare succulents is the Haworthia cooperi. The translucent fingers of this plant give it an almost glow in the dark appearance. Fun fact – you only need to water this baby once every 3 weeks.

25 – Haworthia truncata

Raising from the ground, the stems of this mini succulent look like they have had their tops sliced off. It grows low to the ground. Fun fact – this is a cold weather cactus. It flowers in late autumn.

26 – Kalanchoe rhombopilosa (pies from heaven)

Madagascar gave the world pies from heaven. The silvery speckled plant has thick, delicate petals that grow to over 1 inch big. Fun fact – this is one of the first plants to land on the moon.

27 – Mammillaria herrerae

Literally resembling a golf ball, its no wonder that is the Mammillaria herrerae’s common name. It grows no bigger than 1.5 inches. Fun fact – although this cactus has plenty throns, you won’t get hurt touching it because the thorn grow inwards.

28 – Othonna capensis (ruby necklace)

This striking cactus matures into pink bean shaped pearls hence the nickname ruby necklace. Fun fact – this succulent needs light in order to stay pink. It will turn green in low light.

29 – Parodia rechensis

Parodia rechensis is native to Brazil and loves lots of bright sun, not a lot of water, and well draining soil. Fun fact – this prickly little ball has 18 ribs full of thorns.

30 – Pelecyphora Aselliformis

This seemingly flattened cactus has oval shaped areoles that contain the spikes of this species. Fun fact – this succulent is commonly called the hatchet cactus.

31 – Pelotilla de Chinamada

Pelotilla de Chinamada is one of the rarest succulents in the world. If is very difficult to find growing in the wild. Fun fact – it grows exclusively in the Canary Islands, Spain.

32 – Pleiospilos nelii (split rock)

Split rock literally looks like pebbles that have been split in half. And, from the center of the rock emerge new petals and pretty blooms. Fun fact – the spring blossoms smell like coconut.

33 – Stapelia (Carrion Flower)

This stinking rose is a spineless succulent. Although, not a rare specie, it is on the endangered list in Namibia. Fun fact – stapelia have a terrible odor used to attract pollinators.

34 – Tephrocactus Articulatus (paper spine)

Tephrocactus Articulatus is a native of Argentina. This small plant grows long, flat spikes that are soft. They are said to resemble raffia. Fun Fact – Paper Spine will rarely produce flowers indoors but do bear white flowers and brown fruits when growing in their natural habitat.

35 – Variegated Monstrose Cristata

Crested succulents have a fan shaped top. Fun fact – sunlight is used to produce the chlorophyll needed to turn the plant green and provide food. This cactus does not distribute the chlorophyll evenly, hence the color variations.

36 – Welwitschia mirabilis

With only 2 straps that grow perennially in perpetuity, this plant can live hundreds of years. Fun fact – Welwitschia mirabilis can survive many years in droughts because they can absorb vapors from the atmosphere to continue to grow.

Geographic Origins of Rare Succulents

Succulents are plants that have adapted to survive in arid conditions by storing water in their leaves, stems, and roots. They are found all over the world, but some of the rarest and most unusual succulents come from specific geographic regions.

African Succulents

Africa is home to a diverse array of succulent species, including some of the rarest and most unusual in the world. With just two leaves that grow continuously throughout its lifetime, and span several centuries, the Welwitschia mirabilis is one of the most unique African cactus. Another rare African succulent is the Lithops, also known as the “living stone” plant. These small, rock-like plants are native to southern Africa and are known for their ability to blend in with their surroundings, making them difficult to spot. The Euphorbia obesa, a small, round succulent is native to South Africa and is characterized by its unique shape and vibrant green color.

Madagascan Varieties

The island nation of Madagascar, off the east coast of Africa, is home to a number of rare and unusual succulents, found nowhere else in the world. One of the most striking Madagascan succulents is the Pachypodium geayi, which has a thick, spiny stem and produces large, white flowers. Another such unique species is the Alluaudia procera, which has tall, spiny stems that resemble cacti known as the “octopus tree.”

South American Species

A rich diversity of succulent plants make South America home. One of the rarest is the Blossfeldia liliputana, found only in the high Andes of Bolivia and Argentina. This tiny plant is just a few millimeters in diameter and is one of the smallest cacti in the world. Another unusual South American succulent is the Echinopsis chamaecereus, called the “peanut cactus.” This plant produces bright pink flowers that resemble peanuts.

Asia

Asia is not typically known for its succulent species, but there are a few rare and unusual examples that are worth mentioning. One such example is the Haworthia cooperi, a small, slow-growing succulent that is native to South Africa but is often found in Asian gardens and homes. The Haworthia cooperi has a striking appearance and is often used as a decorative plant.

Botanical Oddities in Rare Succulents

If you’re looking for a unique addition to your succulent collection, consider these botanical oddities. From caudiciform succulents to crested succulents, these unusual plants are sure to turn heads.

Caudiciform Succulents

Caudiciform succulents generally have thick, swollen stems that store water during dry periods. One of the most unusual caudiciform succulents is the baobab tree (Adansonia digitata). This massive tree can grow up to 82 feet tall and has a trunk that can reach up to 36 feet in diameter. Baobab trees are native to Africa with a distinctive shape and ability to store water in their trunks.

Another caudiciform succulent worth mentioning is the elephant’s foot (Dioscorea elephantipes). This succulent gets its name from its large, bulbous base that resembles an elephant’s foot. The plant’s stem is thin and vine-like, making it a great addition to hanging baskets.

Mesembs

Mesembs, also known as “living stones,” are a group of succulents that mimic rocks and pebbles. One of the most unusual mesembs is the Lithops. These plants have a unique appearance, with two thick, fleshy leaves that are fused together to form a “stone.” When the plant blooms, a small flower emerges from the center of the leaves.

The split rock (Pleiospilos nelii) succulent gets its name from its ability to split open when it rains, revealing a beautiful flower inside. The split rock is native to South Africa and is a great addition to rock gardens or succulent arrangements.

Crested Succulents

Crested succulents are a rare genetic mutation that causes the plant to grow in a unique, fan-like shape. One of the most unusual crested succulents is the crested euphorbia (Euphorbia lactea ‘Cristata’). This succulent has a distinctive shape, with wavy, fan-like growth that resembles a coral reef. The plant is native to Madagascar and is a great addition to any succulent collection.

Another crested succulent worth mentioning is the crested cactus (Gymnocalycium mihanovichii ‘Hibotan’). This cactus has a fan-like growth that is covered in bright pink or red flowers.

Exceptional Traits of Rare Succulents

Succulents have unique and unusual traits that make them stand out from other plants. From their ability to store water in their leaves to their diverse shapes and sizes, succulents have become popular among plant enthusiasts. However, some succulents have even more exceptional traits that make them rare and highly sought after.

Unique Coloring – Unusual succulents is their unique coloring. Some have vibrant and bold colors that make them stand out from other plants. For instance, the Echeveria ‘Black Prince’ has dark, almost black, leaves that create a stunning contrast with its red flowers. Similarly, the Crassula ‘Buddha’s Temple’ has green leaves with red edges that resemble a temple, making it an eye-catching addition to any collection.
Bizarre Shapes – Another exceptional trait is their bizarre shapes. Succulents have evolved to have unusual shapes that are not commonly found in other plants. For example, the Lithops have evolved to look like small stones, while the Haworthia ‘Cooperi’ has a unique rosette shape that sets it apart from other succulents.
Uncommon Blooms – Finally, some unusual succulents have uncommon blooms that make them even more special. While most succulents have small and inconspicuous flowers, others have evolved to have stunning blooms that are rare and highly sought after. For instance, the Adenium ‘Desert Rose’ has large and colorful flowers that resemble roses. Similarly, the Stapelia ‘Carrion Flower’ has large and unique flowers that emit a foul odor to attract pollinators.

Cultivation Challenges

Growing rare succulents can be a rewarding experience for plant enthusiasts, but it can also be a challenging one. These plants have unique requirements and may not be as forgiving as other succulent varieties when it comes to care.

Soil Requirements – One of the challenges of cultivating rare succulents is finding the right soil mix. Many rare succulents require a well-draining soil mix that is low in organic matter. This can be difficult to achieve, especially if you live in an area with heavy clay soil.
Light Requirements – Most succulents require bright, direct sunlight to thrive. However, some rare species have specific light requirements. For example, the Haworthia cooperi requires bright, indirect sunlight and can get sunburned if exposed to direct sunlight for too long. On the other hand, the Euphorbia obesa prefers partial shade and can suffer from sunburn if exposed to too much light. It is important to research the light requirements of each species before planting and to make sure they are getting the right amount of light.
Watering Needs – Succulents are known for their ability to store water in their leaves and stems, which allows them to survive in arid environments. However, overwatering can be a common problem for these plants. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Some rare succulents, such as the Lithops go through a dormant period during which they should not be watered at all.
Temperature and Humidity – Most succulents are adapted to hot, dry climates and can tolerate high temperatures. However, some rare species have specific temperature requirements. For example, the Adenium obesum prefers temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and can suffer from cold damage if exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, some rare succulents require high humidity levels to thrive.

Conservation Status of Rare Succulents

Unusual succulents are fascinating and they also play an important role in the environment. Unfortunately, many of these plants are facing threats to their existence. These are the conservation statuses of some of the rarest and most unusual succulents in the world.

Endangered Species

Some succulent species are classified as endangered due to their limited distribution and habitat loss. For instance, the Pelotilla de Chinamada is a rare succulent that only grows on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands of Spain. Every single known Pelotilla de Chinamada grows in an area that is only about 1 km² (0.386 mi²) in size. In 2009, the population count of Pelotilla de Chinamada was reported as 593 individuals and 504 of those were mature plants.

Another example of an endangered succulent is the Ariocarpus Trigonus. This plant is at risk due to habitat loss and over-collection by enthusiasts.

Critically Endangered Species

The Sand Dollar Cactus (Astrophytum asterias), also known as the sea urchin cactus, star cactus, or star peyote, is a spineless cactus that is native to parts of Texas and Mexico. This cute little cactus is widely cultivated by succulent/cacti enthusiasts. Unfortunately, due to habitat loss and over-collection, the Sand Dollar Cactus is now critically endangered. It is listed as a protected species in Mexico, and it is illegal to collect or trade this plant without a permit.

The Living Rock Cactus (Ariocarpus fissuratus) is a small, slow-growing cactus that is native to the Chihuahuan Desert in Mexico. It is known for its unusual shape and texture, which resembles a rock. Due to habitat loss, over-collection, and illegal trade, the Living Rock Cactus is now critically endangered. It is listed as a protected species in Mexico, and it is illegal to collect or trade this plant without a permit.

Vulnerable Species

The Elephant’s Foot Tree (Beaucarnea recurvata) is a unique succulent tree that is native to Mexico. The thick, swollen trunk and long, thin leaves that resemble elephant feet is the tree’s identifying quality. Due to habitat loss and over-collection, the Elephant’s Foot Tree is a vulnerable species. This is also listed as a protected species in Mexico.

The Titanopsis Calcarea is a small, slow-growing succulent that is native to South Africa. It is known for its unusual shape and texture, which resembles a rock. Due to habitat loss and over-collection, the Titanopsis Calcarea is now considered a vulnerable species. It is listed as a protected species in South Africa, and it is illegal to collect or trade this plant without a permit.

Growing Cactuses

Growing rare and unusual succulents requires proper propagation techniques to ensure successful growth. In this section, we will discuss three common propagation techniques: seed germination, cuttings, and grafting.

Seed Germination

Seed germination is one of the easiest ways to propagate rare and unusual succulents. To start, choose healthy seeds from a reputable source. Plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist until they germinate. It is important to note that some succulent seeds require specific conditions to germinate, such as light or darkness.

Cuttings

Cuttings are another popular propagation technique. To take a cutting, use a sharp, sterile knife to cut a healthy stem or leaf from the parent plant. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm, bright area until it develops roots.

Grafting

Grafting is a more advanced propagation technique used to combine two different succulent species into one plant. To graft, take a cutting from the desired plant and attach it to the rootstock of another plant. It is important to match the diameter of the cutting and the rootstock to ensure a successful graft. Grafting can be a tricky technique.

Rare Succulent Care

As succulent enthusiasts, we know that taking care of our plants is essential to keeping them healthy and thriving. Rare succulents can be a bit more challenging to care for, but with the right techniques, we can ensure that they flourish just as well as their more common counterparts. Here are some tips for caring for your unique and rare succulents.

Soil Composition

The soil composition for unusual succulents should be well-draining to prevent water from sitting in the soil and causing root rot. We recommend using a mix of perlite, coarse sand, and potting soil. This combination allows for proper drainage while also providing the necessary nutrients for your succulent to grow.

Fertilization

Fertilizing your cactus is essential to keep it healthy and thriving. We recommend using a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen during the growing season. However, be careful not to over-fertilize as this can cause damage to the plant.

Pest Management

Pests can be a problem for any plant, and succulents are no exception. We recommend regularly inspecting your plants for signs of pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. If you notice any infestation, treat your plant with a natural pesticide or insecticidal soap.

Aesthetic Appeal

There is no denying their unique and striking aesthetic appeal. From their colorful foliage to their architectural forms, succulents are a feast for the eyes.

Color Variations – Succulents have a wide range of color variations. From deep greens to bright pinks and purples, succulents come in an array of hues that can add a pop of color to any space. Some of the rarest succulents, such as the Ruby Necklace (Othonna capensis)and the Lithops (Lithops spp.), have unique color patterns that make them stand out even more.
Architectural Forms – Another aspect of succulent aesthetics that makes them so appealing is their architectural forms. Many succulents have a sculptural quality to them, with intricate patterns of leaves and stems that create a visually stunning effect. The Living Rock Cactus (Ariocarpus fissuratus) is a prime example of this, with its intricate ridges and grooves that resemble the surface of a rock.
Flowering Succulents – Finally, flowering succulents add another layer of beauty to their already stunning aesthetic appeal. Many succulents produce vibrant, showy flowers that can last for weeks or even months. The Giant Quiver Tree (Aloidendron pillansii) is a rare succulent that produces stunning orange flowers that can grow up to 10cm in length.

Final Sprouts of Wisdom

Did you know that all cacti are succulents but not all succulents are cacti?? Cactuses are no only a prickly house plant, they have an alter ego. Many rare and unique succulent plants are found around the world. Their color, shape, and size will astonish you.

Sadly, some of these rare beauties are on the endangered species list and are protected by their native countries in order to preserve them for generations to come. You can do your part in helping keep these quickly disappearing cacti using simple propagating techniques.