Desert flowers

Although succulents are often grouped together, they come from many different plant families — including the daisy family (Asteraceae) and the stonecrop family (Crassulaceae) — as well as from many parts of the world, not least the arid and coastal areas of Australia.

What makes them a plant group is that all succulents have adapted to survive dry conditions via fleshy leaves, stems and roots that help them retain water.

Succulents relish hot, dry situations and can take a starring role in dry and heat-tolerant gardens. Many also grow well in containers.

This tough plant group is also finding its way