Step into the verdant realm of plants starting with S, where nature’s artistry unfolds in a symphony of shapes, textures, and colors. From graceful houseplants to striking succulents and majestic shrubs, this alphabetical journey unveils a botanical wonderland brimming with surprises.
As we delve into the depths of this plant-filled universe, we’ll explore the unique characteristics, care requirements, and captivating stories behind these botanical gems. Get ready to be inspired, informed, and captivated as we uncover the secrets of plants starting with S.
Common Houseplants Starting with S
Houseplants starting with the letter “S” offer a wide range of options for home decorators. From small, easy-care plants to larger, statement-making specimens, there is a succulent or shrub to suit every taste and space.
Snake Plant
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Scientific name: Sansevieria trifasciata
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Common name: Snake plant, mother-in-law’s tongue
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Size: 2-4 feet tall
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Shape: Upright, sword-like leaves
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Care requirements: Low light, infrequent watering
Spider Plant
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Scientific name: Chlorophytum comosum
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Common name: Spider plant, airplane plant
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Size: 1-2 feet tall
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Shape: Arching, grass-like leaves
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Care requirements: Bright indirect light, moderate watering
Succulents Starting with S: Plants Starting With S
Succulents are fascinating plants known for their ability to store water in their thick, fleshy leaves, stems, or roots. Among the diverse range of succulents, several species start with the letter “S,” each possessing unique characteristics and care requirements.
Sempervivum
Sempervivum, commonly known as houseleeks, are low-growing, rosette-forming succulents. Their leaves are thick, succulent, and often covered with fine hairs or cilia. Sempervivum prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. They are relatively low-maintenance succulents that can tolerate drought conditions.
Senecio
Senecio is a large genus of succulents that includes a wide variety of species. Some popular Senecio succulents that start with “S” include:
- Senecio serpens: A trailing succulent with slender, cylindrical leaves that form dense mats.
- Senecio stapeliiformis: A succulent with tall, columnar stems that resemble miniature trees.
- Senecio succulentus: A succulent with fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves that form rosettes.
Sedum
Sedum is another large genus of succulents, many of which start with the letter “S.” Sedums are known for their ability to thrive in dry, rocky environments. They have fleshy leaves that can be green, blue-green, or variegated. Sedums prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Stapelia, Plants starting with s
Stapelia is a genus of succulent plants native to southern Africa. They are known for their unique, often foul-smelling flowers. Stapelia succulents have fleshy, often spiny stems and can be either upright or trailing. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Propagation
Most succulents that start with “S” can be propagated by stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. To propagate by stem cuttings, take a healthy stem cutting and allow it to callous over for a few days before planting it in well-drained soil. To propagate by leaf cuttings, remove a healthy leaf from the plant and place it on a well-drained soil surface. Keep the soil slightly moist and provide bright, indirect light until the leaf develops roots and new plantlets.
Shrubs Starting with S
Shrubs beginning with the letter “S” add beauty and diversity to any landscape. These plants come in various sizes and shapes, offering a range of options for gardeners. They provide ornamental value through their foliage, flowers, and fruits, and serve practical purposes such as privacy screening, windbreaks, and wildlife habitats.
Before selecting shrubs for your garden, consider their hardiness zones, sizes, and flowering seasons to ensure they thrive in your specific climate and meet your desired aesthetic. Some shrubs require specific care, such as pruning or protection from pests and diseases, so it’s essential to research their individual needs.
Specific Shrub Species Starting with S
- Salvia (Sage): Hardy in zones 5-9, these shrubs offer aromatic foliage and colorful flowers. They come in various sizes and shapes, from compact to large, upright varieties.
- Spiraea (Spirea): Known for their showy spring blooms, spiraeas are hardy in zones 3-8. They produce clusters of white, pink, or red flowers and have attractive foliage that turns vibrant shades in fall.
- Syringa (Lilac): A classic spring-flowering shrub, lilacs are hardy in zones 3-7. They produce fragrant, showy panicles of flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white.
- Sambucus (Elderberry): Hardy in zones 3-8, elderberries are versatile shrubs that produce edible berries and attractive foliage. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
- Stephanandra (Stephanandra): Hardy in zones 4-8, stephanandras are deciduous shrubs with attractive foliage that turns brilliant shades of yellow and orange in fall. They produce small, white flowers in early summer.