Introduction
Succulents add a unique, modern element to wedding design. They are virtually indestructible in heat, add interesting texture, and can double as favors or keepsakes. Whether used as the star of the show or as accents, succulents offer creative possibilities that traditional flowers cannot.
Best Succulents for Weddings
| Succulent | Size | Color | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Echeveria | 2-6" | Green, pink, purple, gray | Bouquet focal, centerpiece |
| Sempervivum (Hen & Chicks) | 1-3" | Green, red tips | Boutonnieres, accents |
| Aeonium | 3-8" | Green, burgundy, black | Statement pieces |
| Crassula | 1-4" | Green, red | Filler, texture |
| Haworthia | 1-3" | Green, striped | Small accents |
| Tillandsia (Air Plants) | 2-8" | Silver-green | Modern, no soil needed |
| String of Pearls | Trailing | Green | Cascading bouquets |
Wiring Technique
Succulents do not have traditional stems. To use them in bouquets and arrangements:
- Cut the succulent leaving 1-2 inches of stem
- Insert a 22-gauge floral wire through the base of the rosette
- Wrap the wire with floral tape to create a usable "stem"
- Let the cut callous for 24 hours before wiring (prevents rot)
- Mist lightly — succulents need very little water
Design Ideas
Succulent Bouquet
- 5-8 echeveria rosettes as focal flowers
- Mixed with roses, dusty miller, and eucalyptus
- Wire all succulents; combine with fresh stems in a bouquet holder
- Weight: heavier than a traditional bouquet — warn the bride
Succulent Centerpiece
- Potted succulents in wooden boxes or terracotta
- Mixed sizes and varieties for visual interest
- Add candles and greenery around the pots
- Bonus: Guests take succulents home as favors
Succulent Boutonniere
- Single small echeveria or sempervivum
- Wire and tape to a short stem
- Add a sprig of greenery (eucalyptus, dusty miller)
- Pin with a pearl-head pin
Succulent Favors
- Individual potted succulents with a "thank you" tag
- Cost: $3-6 per favor
- Doubles as table décor during the reception
- Guests love them — unique and lasting
Pricing
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Individual succulent (for wiring) | $3-6 each |
| Succulent bouquet (8-10 succulents + filler) | $175-350 |
| Succulent centerpiece (potted, 3-5 plants) | $30-75 |
| Succulent boutonniere | $15-25 |
| Succulent favors | $3-6 each |
Advantages
- Heat-proof — Thrive in temperatures that kill fresh flowers
- Long-lasting — Look perfect for weeks, not days
- Unique — Stand out from traditional floral designs
- Sustainable — Living plants, not cut flowers
- Multi-purpose — Décor, favors, and keepsakes in one
Challenges
- Heavy — Bouquets with many succulents are noticeably heavier
- Wiring takes time — Budget extra labor for preparation
- Limited color range — Mostly greens, some purple and pink
- Not fragrant — No scent (pair with fragrant fresh flowers if desired)
Use our Flower Cost Calculator for succulent arrangement pricing. Build proposals with WPro.AI.
Conclusion
Succulents are a creative, practical, and beautiful addition to any wedding. Use them as focal elements, accents, or favors — or all three. Their heat tolerance and longevity make them a smart choice for outdoor and destination weddings.
Related: Budget-Friendly Wedding Flowers | Heat-Resistant Wedding Flowers | Flower Cost Calculator
