Succulents and cacti have taken the plant world by storm, especially for apartment dwellers seeking low-maintenance greenery and stylish shapes.
For those of us here in Austin, these plants aren’t just a trendy decor choice, but also a well-suited greenery to the city’s unique climate. Let’s dive into how Austin’s weather makes for an ideal climate for these resilient plants, as well as learn about the succulents and cacti found locally and which varieties thrive in apartments.
A guide to indoor succulents & cacti in Austin
Austin’s climate
Austin boasts a humid subtropical climate that’s known for its hot summers, mild winters and occasional bursts of humidity.
If you’ve spent any time at all here, you’ll already know that the summers here are relentless, with temperatures regularly climbing into the 90s and above. This sun-drenched environment is perfect for succulents and cacti, though, which have evolved to thrive under intense sunlight and retain water during dry spells (same, honestly). With approximately 228 sunny days a year, Austin provides more than enough light for these sun-loving plants.
However, humidity levels here in Austin can fluctuate often, especially in the spring and fall when warm air from the Gulf of Mexico sweeps through the region. While succulents and cacti prefer dry conditions, most can adapt to the occasional bout of strong humidity.
How does this translate to taking care of plants indoors? Well, it’s crucial to ensure good air circulation inside your apartment to prevent moisture buildup, which could lead to root rot and fungal problems. During the occasional winter freezes that Austin’s known for, the indoor environment offers a safe haven protected from the elements, as most succulents and cacti can’t handle prolonged exposure to cold.
In short, Austin’s climate is a dream for succulent and cactus lovers both indoors and out — if you know how to manage the occasional quirks of Austin’s crazy weather, that is!
Succulents & cactus found around Austin
Austin’s landscape is dotted with native and locally popular succulents and cacti that not only beautify the region but also play a vital role in the ecosystem.
The prickly pear cactus, for example, is Texas’ official state plant, and its striking pads and vibrant yellow flowers are a familiar sight in parks and gardens around the city. The agave, another regional favorite, comes in many varieties and is often used in xeriscaping to conserve water (it’s also used to make tequila!). Both are essential plants in hot climates, as they provide shelter, protection and shade for all kinds of small creatures, as well as stabilizing dry and crumbly soils with their strong roots.
Other types of succulents, cactus and desert plants you’re likely to see around Austin include a variety of yucca, Texas sotol (a pointy, firework-looking plant), the native flowering chisme and the tall San Pedro cactus.
Indoor plants & succulents for Austin apartments
For those living in our Austin apartments, bringing the beauty of the region’s succulents and cacti indoors can be both practical and rewarding! While Austin’s sunny climate makes it easy to grow these plants indoors, choosing the right species for apartment conditions is key to a flourishing indoor garden.
Popular succulents for indoor spaces include the jade plant, with its thick, glossy leaves, as well as the echeveria, with its rosette shape and pastel hues. Aloe vera, a staple for its medicinal uses, also doubles as a hardy, visually appealing houseplant that can withstand even the most inexperienced plant parent. Burro’s tail, with its trailing stems of plump, bead-like leaves, is perfect for displaying in hanging planters.
When it comes to cacti, the Christmas cactus is a standout — unlike many traditional spiky cacti, its long stems bloom with vibrant pink or red flowers toward the end of the year. The moon cactus, with its colorful top grafted onto a green base, is another favorite for small spaces. For a more traditional look, the golden barrel cactus adds a bold, sculptural element to any room.
Place your succulents and cacti in areas that receive plenty of light, such as windowsills or near balconies. If your apartment lacks natural sunlight, consider using grow lights to ensure they get the light they need. Use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes to prevent overwatering, which is the most common mistake new plant owners make.
Cacti and succulents may not deliver the bushy greenery as some other indoor plants can provide, but they’re still great pieces of décor that can be incorporated into any interior design. Group different varieties in a shallow dish for a desert-themed centerpiece, or place a row of small pots on a windowsill for a minimalist vibe. Hanging planters are a fantastic way to maximize space in smaller apartments while also showcasing trailing plants. And, for a creative twist, try building a terrarium with layers of sand, stones and succulents to create your own desert scene!
The sky’s the limit when it comes to incorporating succulents and cacti into your apartment’s décor, and they really are the perfect plants for Austin apartment dwellers. They’re stylish, low-maintenance and well-suited to the city’s sunny, warm climate and Texas-y vibes.
By choosing the right varieties for indoor living and providing proper care, you can enjoy a thriving indoor garden that brings life and greenery to your apartment no matter the time of year!
Good luck!
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Colleen Ford is a South African who now lives on Oahu in Hawai'i. She loves to travel, camp, spearfish and hike. She's also part of a super cool canoe club and is pretty decent at it. Colleen enjoys Star Wars and also not being cold ever.
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