These are arranged in my personal preference order. Further down the list are some that are harder to find or grow, less tasty, or that I haven’t tried yet. And since I couldn’t help myself (it’s simply so fascinating!) I’ve included a succulent that you can eat and get high on. Why didn’t I include tequila agave and aloe vera? just because they need to be processed.
Opuntia cactus (paddle cactus)
Eat sensitive, new pads the size of your thumb raw or in salads. Use young, four to eight-inch long pads to make the Mexican delicacy nopales. The species that is most frequently sold in markets is Opuntia ficus-indica. Slice into bite-sized pieces after removing the spines. till soft, roast or boil. Add to salsa and tacos or serve as a side dish. Hate the goop? Fire up the pads. To make the goo ooze out and vanish, cross-hatch the score. Oh my, they’re great!
Dragon fruit
Although many cacti produce edible fruit, you must deal with spines and a lot of tiny seeds. Dragon fruit is the easiest to gather and prepare (pitaya, in the genus Hylocereus). Although I do cultivate it in my garden in Southern California’s inland region, it is obvious that it prefers its native surroundings in Central and South America. The climbing vine needs sunlight to grow, bloom, and bear fruit, yet in this area it burns if it is not shaded. Fall farm stands offer lovely but tasteless dragon fruit. The meat is crispy because of tiny black seeds. Slice, peel, and consume raw or juiced. There are numerous varieties.
Are any succulents toxic?
Succulents like the Kalanchoe and Euphorbia can be poisonous to people. Even non-toxic succulents should be kept out of the reach of kids and pets as a general guideline for all house plants.
EUPHORBIA SUCCULENTS
Plants in the Euphorbiaceae family include euphorbia succulents. They are the fourth-largest genus of flowering plants and are frequently referred to as spurge plants. They are a blooming plant that is primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions. Around 1,200 of the family’s more than 2,000 species are succulents. These succulents are renowned for their large, fleshy leaves, blooms, and cactus-like appearance.
SIDE EFFECTS FROM EUPHORBIA SAP
These plants release a milky sap that both people and animals may find harmful. Usually, a succulent’s leaves will have sap on them. It can result in a rash if it comes into contact with any exposed skin. Euphorbia sap can irritate the eyes and cause pain and redness. In order to safeguard your hands and eyes when handling Euphorbia succulents, wear gloves.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET EUPHORBIA SAP ON YOUR SKIN OR EYES
If you touch or come in contact with Euphorbia sap, wash the affected area well with lots of lukewarm water right away. Because the sap is sticky, more water and soap could be necessary. Start cleaning your eye(s) with warm water if Euphorbia sap gets in them. In the event of any plant exposure, it is crucial to contact the Poison Center for further instructions.
KALANCHOE SUCCULENTS
Usually found in adorable pots, kalanchoe succulents can be found in flower stores or garden centers. A little cluster of flowers that typically has one huge bloom atop the stalk is produced by them. Large kalanchoe succulent leaves are typically a vivid dark green. There are up to 125 different species of this kind of plant.
SIDE EFFECTS FROM INGESTING KALANCHOE SUCCULENTS
When consumed, the majority of kalanchoe plant kinds only possibly produce nausea and vomiting. Some Kalanchoe species have a naturally occurring toxin that can harm the heart. The majority of the time, this occurs in grazing cattle and in some animal experiments, although it is unlikely to harm humans.
WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE EATS A PIECE OF KALANCHOE SUCCULENT
If you or someone else has consumed a piece of kalanchoe succulent, rinse your mouth out with water and a soft towel. Call the Poison Center to discuss potential symptoms with a poison information professional. Call your veterinarian straight away or go to an animal poison center for help if your pet has consumed a piece of kalanchoe plant.
Which succulents are safe for humans to consume?
10 Pet-Safe, Non-Toxic Succulents
- Haworthia zebra.
- Echeveria in blue.
- Palm of the pony.
- Cow’s Tail.
- Ruby Heart Sempervivum
- Christmas Cacti.
- the Haworthia retusa.
- The opuntia genus.
Is Echeveria elegans edible?
There are over 150 different species of succulent plants in the genus Echeveria, in addition to numerous hybrids. The majority of Echeveria are considered non-poisonous to humans. However, it is advised against intentionally eating echeveria.
Although there are no hazardous or harmful compounds that can affect humans, especially children, if they unintentionally swallow Echeveria, the germs that can be found on the plant’s surface can nevertheless make people unwell. Echeveria is not a natural food source for people, and it hasn’t been thoroughly researched to know if consuming big amounts can upset people’s stomachs. Therefore, eating Echeveria on purpose is not advised.
Can you eat all succulents?
the varieties of succulents that are edible:
- Sedum: There are probably numerous different varieties of sedum in your collection; it is one of the largest groups of succulent plants. It is rumored that these low-maintenance specimens are delicious. The varieties with yellow flowers should be boiled before eating. To salads and smoothies, you can add leaves, flowers, stems, or even seeds. These taste faintly spicy. Some are resentful. You can lessen this harshness by steaming or stir-frying.
- The popular decorative prickly pear cactus is noted for its juicy and delectable fruits. Peel, then consume raw or grilled. This gives the body beta-carotene and vitamin C, which enhance vision and reduce inflammation. The pads can also be eaten.
- Pitaya dragon fruit is another succulent that is frequently produced. Scoop out the white pulp, then eat it uncooked. Adding to soups or smoothies is also an option. high in antioxidants and helps the body’s healthy gut flora.
- Salicornia: You can eat this delicious plant both raw and cooked. It can be consumed in the same way as spinach. You can sauté it or add it raw to salads.
- Spinach can be substituted with purslane (Portulaca oleracea), which can be grown or considered a weed in the garden. It tastes good both fresh and cooked.
This article’s content is provided solely for informational and gardening reasons. Please get the opinion of a doctor, medical herbalist, or other qualified practitioner before consuming or ingesting ANY herb or plant, whether for therapeutic or other purposes.
Jade plant poisonous?
One of the toxic members of the Crassula family is the jade plant (Crassula ovata). Given that this particular variety of jade plant may be harmful to animals, it is preferable to keep it in inaccessible locations. They differ from other members of the jade family like the Ripple Jade because of their destructive principles.
Our basic rule for houseplants is that research can go a long way toward ensuring that your family, pets, and houseplants all get along. Every month, on the first, we post on social media the two succulents that will come in the subscription box for that month. To see these postings, follow us on Facebook or Instagram. Then, check the ASPCA’s list of poisonous plants to see if the plants may cause an issue in your house. Simply gift or skip that month via your account page on our website if you believe they might.
To discover more about our second-generation nursery and succulent subscription, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Succulents on cakes are harmless, right?
Include a lot of plants Don’t be scared to go all out if you really want to include your fascination with succulents into your cake design. Because succulents are such delicate plants, adding lots of sage green and purple accents creates a gorgeous outside display for a plain white cake.
Succulents: Are they medicinal?
Succulents Possess Therapeutic Qualities Succulents have long been used to heal a variety of illnesses, including injuries, burns, stomachaches, and more. Many of them, like yucca and aloe vera, have therapeutic qualities. The juice and gel from aloe vera plants, among other parts, have medicinal uses.
Succulents: are they cancerous?
Are succulents among the many modern-day factors that can contribute to the development of cancer?
We frequent the neighborhood markets with our succulents. Along with the possibility to make money, it also affords us the chance to interact with our clients. We developed this blog in part to share our knowledge and experiences and to respond to some of the inquiries we’ve received over the years at the markets. I was asked a question at our most recent market that I had never heard before. I was a little perplexed because I didn’t completely know the answer, but it sent me on a quest to learn more.
The conclusions I’m going to provide are simply our interpretations of data we obtained online and are not intended to be taken as medical advice. We lack the expertise and credentials to provide any guidance. Any issues should be discussed with experts. I did make an effort to read peer-reviewed, scientific studies, and I’ve included links to them below.
According to our assessment, there is now no proof that even simple contact with succulents might result in cancer. However, one study that focused on the Euphorbia Tirucalli, often known as “African Milk Bush” or “Firesticks,” had some intriguing results.
Can you eat prickly pear cactus?
The lower 48 states of the United States are home to the eastern prickly pear cactus (Opuntia humifusa). In addition to being a lovely plant, it is edible, offers sustenance and safety to wildlife, and can be utilized in natural landscaping.
This cactus is simple to locate, especially in Indiana. The prickly pear features flat, fleshy pads (known as cladodes) covered in spiky spines, similar to other spiny succulents. Showy yellow blossoms are produced by the prickly pear.
How to eat a prickly pear
A red, egg-shaped fruit starts to form after flowering. After removing the skin, the fruits can be eaten raw and are edible. The fruit is frequently converted into jams, candies, and other sweets, and some people even eat the plant’s fleshy pads as a snack.
For thousands of years, the prickly pear cactus has been an essential part of Mexican and Central American cuisine. Prickly pears are becoming more popular as food in various areas of the United States.
The nopal, or cactus pad, which is frequently used as a vegetable, and the pear, or fruit, are the only two edible portions of the prickly pear plant.
What do prickly pears taste like?
Cactus pears have a sweet, rather bland flavor that is comparable to melon. The fruit is not technically a member of the pear family, despite its name. It was merely given that name because the prickly fruit looks and acts like a pear.
Where can I find prickly pears?
In Indiana, such as the Kankakee Sands and the Lake Michigan shore dunes, the prickly pear cactus can be found in open sand and arid places.
Another fantastic location to see Indiana’s sole cactus is the lovely Ober Savanna in Starke County.
Prickly pear in your yard
The fact that this native cactus is challenging to manage is unknown to many who like planting it in their backyards. A single plant can develop into a tangled, dense colony very fast.
The best approach to stop the prickly pear from spreading is to plant it in a pot. Purdue Pest & Plant Diagnostics Lab has a few options to get rid of prickly pear from your property if it is already out of control on the cactus.
When handling this lovely native cactus, be sure to use thick gloves. Their long, thorny spines, which can reach a length of several inches, are the least of your concerns. Glochids are painful and challenging to remove because of their hair-like appearance and decreased visibility.
Can you eat hen and chick succulents?
Sempervivum tectorum, also known as “hens and chicks,” is a fun and simple succulent that is safe for dogs, cats, and horses. Children and adults can safely consume hens and chicks. Hens and chicks’ leaves, or pads, contain alkaloids that are thought to be deadly since they have a short half-life of low toxicity when consumed. From the sap in the leaf cells, some persons can also develop contact dermatitis, or a red and itchy rash. More toxic species of the hens and chicks (Crassula) family of succulents exist. Animals and people are not killed by the plant’s slight toxicity.
In reality, there is some evidence that antioxidant extracts from hens and chicks plants have medical use; however, anyone considering consuming the plants should either take precautions with their consumption or seek additional guidance on safe extraction and use.
Is haworthia toxic to people?
- Sedum is typically safe for both people and animals; in fact, in certain regions, it is referred to as “bittercress.” I imagine that someone would have had to taste it to realize that it was bitter.
- The common jade plant, Crassula ovata, is safe to keep around animals, however it might not enjoy bite marks on the leaves. Never allow dogs to consume jade plant; keep it out of their reach.
- Although it’s not a good idea to eat echeveria, they are safe near both people and animals. They are frequently used as decorations on wedding cakes, though it is advised to use plants that are cultivated naturally.
- Haworthia aren’t poisonous.
- Sempervivum Growing hens and chicks is risk-free, and eating them won’t make you sick.
This is not a comprehensive list; please exercise caution when displaying your houseplants to prevent harm coming to young children’s lips.
Succulent IdentificationWhy It Matters
When you adore succulents, it becomes crucial to know their names at some time. The correct identification of succulents, as I have discussed before, can actually mean the difference between life and death! Despite having quite diverse traits, many varieties of succulents may have the same common name or a comparable look. Their ability to weather the winter makes a difference sometimes. A misidentification of a succulent could result in plants that have died from the cold. Some succulents, though, are poisonous to kids and dogs. Pets and young children can safely consume Sedum morganianum, however Euphorbia myrsinites is extremely hazardous. To protect your family and plants, take care to understand how to identify the types of succulents you have.
Recognizing Different Types of Succulents
A succulent plant is any plant that holds water in its leaves, stems, or roots. The appearances of many types vary greatly from one another. Succulent varieties can, however, seem quite alike. Two genera that are frequently mistaken for one another are Echeveria and Sempervivum. Hens and chicks is the popular name for both. Each plant forms a substantial rosette, giving them a similar appearance. They replicate similarly, each creating offsets. The young succulents that emerge at the base and spread out next to the main rosette are known as succulent offsets. But while the other perishes with just one freeze, the first survives at temperatures much below zero.
You will eventually be able to identify more varieties of succulents solely by appearance. Even if you are now unable to distinguish between a Sempervivum and an Echeveria, if you keep looking and looking for the differences, eventually you will be able to. Sounds strange, I realize. However, just as you are aware of your own child, even when they are surrounded by other children, Or perhaps you are only familiar with your own cat. One skill we all have is the ability to notice subtle differences. Simply said, we employ this expertise in a variety of ways. Perhaps you can identify the differences between 1960s muscle vehicles. I can distinguish between wolves and coyotes. Some people can easily tell a Cabernet from a different vintage apart, or they can recognize different bird species by their cries. Succulent identification only requires practice.
In the image above, there is one obvious difference between Sempervivum and Echeveria. Do you see how the sempervivum’s leaf border is covered in a plethora of tiny hairs? Those hairs are ciliates. A ring of minute hairs called ciliate (SILL-ee-uht) hairs extends along the… They gather dew for the plant in its desert environment. Sempervivum has few echeveriado, but these ciliate hairs. Most likely, your plant is not an Echeveria if the margins are covered in microscopic hairs. (The leaves of fuzzy echeveria are covered in fine hairs.)
Identifying SucculentsNote Characteristics
Another frequent query in identifying succulents is how to differentiate between Aeonium and Echeveria. Additionally, certain Aeonium feature ciliate hairs. The stems of Aeonium and Echeveria, however, are another difference. Echeveria rosettes generally develop close to the soil surface, like Sempervivum. However, aeonium develops long, branching, woody stems with rosettes at each terminal.
Look for the details to tell apart various succulent varieties. As we’ve seen, some types have smooth leaves while others have ciliate hairs along the leaf margins. Observe the leaf thickness as well. The leaves of Echeveria are generally thicker than those of Sempervivum or Aeonium, but not as thick as those of Graptopetalum. Here are a few plant traits to consider when determining whether a plant is a succulent: