How to Identify Trailing Succulents

Examine the leaf. Leaf shape, size and color are key elements in succulent-plant identification. Succulents and sedum have fleshy, thick-skinned leaves and stems. Leaves may be round, oblong or long and narrow. Some succulent leaves are straight, while others are spiral shaped, twisted and curling. Leaves may be green, purple or tinged with brown or red. Leaf patterns may include dots, stripes, swirl or colored edging.

Agave, a member of the plant family Amaryllis, presents sturdy, swordlike leaves that may be serrated or have smooth edges. Cotyledons exhibit thick, fleshy leaves, often covered with a white powder. Gasteria, a member of the lily family, presents blunt, fan-shaped leaves.

Closely examine the stem. Determine if the plant presents multiple stems or is a single-stemmed variety. Note if the stem is upright, branching or trailing. Stem formation provides valuable clues that will help you identify the species. Agave montana, also known as mountain agave, grows in dense clumps. The leaves are pointed and serrated, with thorny points. The flower stem grows up to 15 feet tall.

Consider the size of the plant. Many varieties of sedum, cacti and other succulents are low-growing ground-cover plants, just inches high. Others are tall and stately, often reaching several feet in height at maturity. Hylocereus undatus, also known as dragon fruit, is a tropical jungle vining cactus that presents large white flowers and a tasty, edible fruit. The flesh of the fruit is comparable in taste and texture to a kiwi fruit.

Take note of the flower size, shape and color. The majority of sedum plants exhibit small starlike flowers presented in wide, flat clusters of white, yellow, pink or red. Cactus flowers may be tiny and insignificant or large and showy. Cactus flowers may be red, yellow, white, orange, pink or purple.