If you love succulents but live in a humid climate, you’ve probably noticed that these drought-loving plants don’t always thrive in muggy conditions. High humidity can lead to rot, fungal infections, and unhappy succulents but don’t give up just yet. With the right species and care adjustments, you can grow stunning succulents even in sticky, moisture-rich environments.
Dig in!
Why Humidity and Succulents Don’t Always Mix
Succulents evolved in arid regions where water is scarce. Their thick, fleshy leaves store moisture, allowing them to survive long dry spells. But in high humidity:
- Water evaporates slower, so soil stays damp longer.
- Fungal diseases (like powdery mildew and root rot) spread easily.
- Leaves may absorb excess moisture, leading to swelling, splitting, or rot.
That doesn’t mean you can’t grow them—it just means you need to pick the right plants and tweak your care routine.
Best Succulents for Humid Climates
Not all succulents struggle with humidity. Some naturally grow in tropical or subtropical zones and handle moisture better. Here are the top picks:
1. Haworthia
- Why they work: Native to South Africa, many Haworthias grow in shaded, humid climates.
- Best varieties:
- Haworthia cooperi (translucent leaves)
- Haworthia attenuata (Zebra Plant)
- Haworthia limifolia (Fairies Washboard)
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
- Why they work: Extremely drought-tolerant but also adapt well to humid climates.
- Best varieties:
- Sansevieria trifasciata (Mother-in-Law’s Tongue)
- Sansevieria cylindrica (Cylindrical Snake Plant)
3. Gasteria
- Why they work: Close relatives of Haworthia, they thrive in similar conditions.
- Best varieties:
- Gasteria bicolor (Lawyer’s Tongue)
- Gasteria ‘Little Warty’
4. Rhipsalis (Jungle Cacti)
- Why they work: Unlike desert cacti, these grow in rainforests and tolerate humidity.
- Best varieties:
- Rhipsalis baccifera (Mistletoe Cactus)
- Rhipsalis cereuscula (Coral Cactus)
5. Epiphyllum (Orchid Cacti)
- Why they work: These tropical cacti love moisture and shade.
- Best varieties:
- Epiphyllum oxypetalum (Queen of the Night)
6. Portulacaria afra (Elephant Bush)
- Why they work: Handles humidity better than most succulents.
7. Peperomia
- Why they work: Many are semi-succulent and thrive in tropical conditions.
- Best varieties:
- Peperomia obtusifolia (Baby Rubber Plant)
- Peperomia graveolens (Ruby Glow)
5 Essential Care Tips for Humid Climates
1. Use a Fast-Draining Soil Mix
- Regular potting soil holds too much moisture.
- Ideal mix: 50% cactus/succulent soil + 50% perlite/pumice.
- Bonus tip: Add coarse sand or crushed granite for extra drainage.
Read more: Best Succulent Soil
2. Water Less Frequently
- Check soil dryness with your finger—only water if the top 1-2 inches are bone dry.
- Signs of overwatering: Mushy leaves, yellowing, black stems.
3. Maximize Airflow
- Place succulents where there’s good circulation (near a fan or open window).
- Avoid overcrowding plants.
4. Choose the Right Pot
- Terracotta pots help wick away moisture.
- Always use pots with drainage holes.
- Avoid glass or sealed containers (they trap humidity).
5. Prevent Fungal Issues
- Avoid misting leaves (humidity is already high).
- Treat with neem oil if you see mold or mildew.
- Remove dead leaves to prevent rot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using regular potting soil (retains too much water).
- Watering on a schedule (humidity slows evaporation).
- Keeping plants in dark, stagnant areas (encourages rot).
Final Thoughts
Growing succulents in humid climates is absolutely possible—you just need the right plants and a few smart adjustments. Stick with humidity-tolerant species like Haworthia, Snake Plants, and Rhipsalis, use a gritty soil mix, and prioritize airflow and drainage.
With these tips, your succulents won’t just survive—they’ll thrive, even in muggy weather.