Succulents are my favorite kind of low-maintenance housemates—they ask for so little and look good doing it. If you’re living in the Southwest, you’ve got the perfect setup to show off these quirky, drought-loving beauties.
From chunky little rosettes to trailing stems that seem to do their own thing, there’s a succulent for every nook and cranny. I’ve rounded up 16 of the most eye-catching ones that will thrive even in the smallest corners of your home.
Let’s turn your space into a desert-inspired dream with just a few fun plant picks.
1. Aloe Vera
Known for its healing properties, this spiky succulent doubles as a living first-aid kit. Keep it in your kitchen window where sun exposure will help it thrive.
The gel inside those thick, pointed leaves soothes burns and skin irritations. Even beginners find aloe easy to care for—just water when the soil feels completely dry.
2. Echeveria
Resembling stone flowers, echeverias create living sculptures with their symmetrical rosettes. Colors range from silvery blue to pink-tipped green, changing with sunlight exposure.
Place them on coffee tables or bathroom counters where they’ll catch morning light. Water sparingly and enjoy how these Mexican natives complement Southwest decor without demanding much attention.
3. Haworthia
Perfect for those darker corners where other succulents struggle. These striped, spiky plants tolerate low light conditions better than most of their sun-loving relatives.
Their compact size makes them ideal for small spaces like bookshelves or desk corners. The translucent “window” tips let light penetrate deeper into the plant—a clever adaptation worth admiring up close.
4. Jade Plant
Considered a symbol of prosperity, jade plants bring good fortune to entryways and living rooms. Their thick, oval leaves store water efficiently, making them remarkably drought-tolerant.
Over time, these plants develop woody stems that resemble miniature trees. Many jade plants become family heirlooms, passed down through generations while continuing to grow slowly but steadily.
5. Burro’s Tail
Trailing stems covered in plump, overlapping leaves create a dramatic hanging display. This Mexican native adds movement to static spaces when placed on high shelves or in hanging planters.
The bluish-green beads can grow several feet long when happy. Handle with care—those chubby leaves detach easily, though fallen pieces can be used to start new plants.
6. Prickly Pear
Bring authentic desert vibes indoors with these iconic paddle-shaped cacti. The flat segments sprout colorful flowers in spring, followed by edible fruits on mature plants.
Miniature varieties stay manageable in pots while delivering maximum Southwest character. Position them where curious pets and children won’t accidentally brush against the tiny spines that give this plant its prickly name.
7. String of Pearls
Delicate strands of bead-like leaves cascade beautifully from hanging planters or high shelves. Each perfect little sphere stores water while creating a dramatic waterfall effect in any room.
Despite their delicate appearance, these plants are surprisingly tough. Just ensure good drainage and bright, indirect light to keep your living pearl necklace looking its best year-round.
8. Zebra Plant
White horizontal stripes against deep green create a striking pattern that stands out in any collection. Unlike many succulents, these compact plants prefer partial shade, making them perfect for coffee tables away from direct sun.
Their slow growth means they won’t outgrow their space. The distinctive zebra markings add natural pattern and texture to minimalist or bohemian Southwest interiors.
9. Crown of Thorns
Vibrant blooms appear year-round on this unique succulent, adding unexpected color to sunny spots. The small red, pink, or yellow flowers contrast beautifully against the thick green leaves.
Despite its intimidating name and thorny stems, this plant is surprisingly easy to maintain. Its drought tolerance makes it perfect for forgetful waterers while still providing continuous color in Southwest homes.
10. Agave
Architectural and bold, agaves make dramatic statements in bright corners or entryways. Their symmetrical rosettes of thick, pointed leaves command attention while requiring minimal care.
Choose dwarf varieties like ‘Blue Glow’ that won’t outgrow indoor spaces. The blue-green coloration with reddish edges complements Southwest color palettes perfectly while adding strong geometric form to your decor.
11. Kalanchoe
Clusters of tiny, vibrant flowers bloom for months above scalloped green leaves. Available in fiesta-bright colors like orange, pink, and yellow, these plants add welcome pops of color to dining tables and kitchen counters.
Even when not blooming, the attractive foliage maintains visual interest. With minimal water and moderate light, kalanchoes reward Southwest homeowners with repeated flowering cycles throughout the year.
12. Christmas Cactus
Dramatic cascades of jointed stems burst into colorful blooms during winter months. Unlike desert cacti, this rainforest native appreciates more humidity, making it perfect for bathrooms with filtered light.
The timing of its spectacular flowering period brings color to homes during holiday seasons. These long-lived plants often become cherished family heirlooms that mark the passing of years.
13. Barrel Cactus
Round and ribbed, these desert icons bring authentic Southwest character to sunny spots. Their distinctive shape creates natural sculpture that complements adobe-inspired interiors and rustic decor elements.
Slow-growing miniature varieties stay manageable in pots for many years. The golden spines catch sunlight beautifully, creating a glowing effect that adds warmth to any room.
14. Sempervivum
Commonly called “hens and chicks,” these charming succulents multiply by producing tiny offsets around the mother plant. The name “sempervivum” means “always living”—fitting for these remarkably resilient plants.
Available in a rainbow of colors from green to purple to red, they create living mosaics in shallow dishes. Their color intensifies with sun exposure, adding vibrant accents to bright window ledges.
15. Euphorbia
Often mistaken for cacti, these architectural plants feature fascinating geometric growth patterns. Their structural forms range from twisted columns to branching candelabras, creating living sculpture for bright corners.
Many varieties develop colorful new growth that adds seasonal interest. Their distinctive silhouettes make bold statements in minimalist Southwest interiors while requiring very little maintenance.
16. Lithops
These strange “living stones” mimic pebbles as a clever desert camouflage strategy. Their split tops reveal new growth and occasional daisy-like flowers that seem to emerge from nowhere.
Perfect for small spaces like desks or narrow windowsills, these conversation-starting plants need very little soil. Their unusual appearance fascinates visitors while adding subtle natural elements to modern Southwest interiors.