My Enchanting Garden: A Showcase of the Largest Succulents and Cacti
My garden, spanning 83 acres, is a vibrant and diverse collection of flora and fauna. Among these, the succulents and cacti stand out as true marvels of nature. In this blog post, I wish to highlight the largest succulents I personally own, along with some of my favorite cacti varieties that I have nurtured over the years.
Agave: A Native Gem
One of my prized possessions is an exceptionally large agave. Unlike many other succulents, agave has its own unique charm and utility. We have collected agave nectar, known as miel de agave, and have used it to make pulque, a traditional Mexican alcoholic beverage. This agave has flowered, marking the end of its reproductive cycle, but its impact on my garden remains profoundly significant.
With thousands of more agave plants, the potential for harvesting and selling them to distilleries for mezcal production is promising. The ongoing cycle of cultivation and harvest underscores the resilience and adaptability of these plants.
Remarkable Jade Plant
Among my interesting plant species, the jade plant stands out as the physically largest succulent in my garden. Next to it is a decent-sized Echeveria, adding to the garden's vibrant ecosystem. Additionally, I have Madagascar ocotillo plants that I grew from cuttings, effectively expanding the garden's diversity.
Of particular mention is my Euphorbia horrida, a plant that has been a part of my collection for about four years. Recently purchased by a seller who claimed to have had it for 15 years, this plant is estimated to be around 20 years old. Its presence in the garden adds a historical and almost magical touch to the otherwise bustling environment.
Marvels of the Cactus World
Indeed, my garden is overflowing with various cacti species. Each of these cacti started from tiny plants in 2-inch or 4-inch pots, but now they have grown to impressive sizes, some reaching heights of about 2 feet. Watching these cacti flower is an exquisite delight. Recently, one of the plants opened up its blooms last night, a sight that I never tire of.
Other cacti have bloomed days ago, representing the diverse beauty of these plants. Among my favorites is Astrophytum Asterias, which resembles a sea urchin shell, adding an otherworldly element to the garden. These cacti started as tiny plants the size of my thumb and have now grown significantly, an ongoing testament to their strength and adaptability.
Conclusion
My garden's diversity is a testament to the resilience and beauty of cacti and succulents. From large agaves to the largest jade plant, and from cacti that flower to those that grow to impressive heights, my collection is a source of joy and pride. Observed through a lens, the photos capture the essence of each plant, highlighting their unique features and the magic they bring to the garden.