About Surreal Succulents

Who are Surreal Succulents?
Surreal Succulents is a specialist nursery based in Cornwall, UK. We grow, hybridise, and sell rare and unusual succulents, including our own world-first hybrids such as x Semponium. With 5+ RHS Chelsea Gold Medals, we are known for high-quality plants, sustainable growing methods, and expert horticultural advice.

Do you grow your own succulents?
Yes – the majority of our succulents are propagated and grown on site in Cornwall. This ensures healthy, well-rooted plants that are fully acclimatised to UK conditions.

Do you ship succulents outside the UK?
On occasion, we ship worldwide with the correct paperwork. All orders leaving the UK are sent with a phytosanitary certificate and import permots (if required), ensuring smooth entry into the EU, USA, Canada, and beyond. We have currently stopped international sales due to frequent losses at customs. We will resume when we can.

Countries we can send to:
US, Japan, Canada (with permit). Enquire via email (info@surrealsucculents.co.uk) to see if we can send to your country.

What makes Surreal Succulents unique?
We are one of the UK’s leading succulent specialists, offering exclusive hybrids, sustainable packaging, and expert aftercare. Our award-winning nursery has developed many varieties not available anywhere else.

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Succulent Care in the UK

Can succulents grow outside in the UK?
Yes – many succulents thrive outdoors in the UK, particularly hardy species such as Sempervivum, Sedum, and some Agave. In colder months, tender succulents like Echeveria and Aeonium should be brought into a greenhouse, conservatory, or bright indoor windowsill.

How often should I water succulents?
In the UK, succulents should be watered using the ‘3Ds method’ – drench, drain, dry. Give them a good soak, let all excess water drain away, then allow the soil to fully dry before watering again. This prevents rot, especially in our damp climate.

What soil is best for succulents in the UK?
Succulents require a free-draining mix. We recommend a blend of 1/3 John Innes no2 (or any loamy substrate), 1/3 coconut soir and 1/3 grit or perlite. Avoid multi-purpose compost on its own, or even cactus soil on its own for that matter, as it holds too much moisture in UK conditions. if you find yourself with just multipurpose compost, simply adding perlite or grit can help create a suitable succulent compost. Here is our compost mix.

Do succulents need sunlight in the UK?
Yes – succulents need as much natural light as possible. A south-facing windowsill, greenhouse, or sheltered patio is ideal. In winter, when UK light levels are low, consider moving them to the brightest spot available to prevent stretching. Grow lights to supplement light is also recommended.

Can succulents survive frost?
Hardy succulents like Sempervivum and many Sedum can tolerate UK frosts. Tender species (e.g. Echeveria, Aeonium, Crassula) should be protected with horticultural fleece or moved indoors once temperatures drop below 5°C.

Do succulents flower in the UK?
Yes – many succulents produce spectacular flowers in summer. Echeveria send up tall flower spikes, while Aeonium and Sempervivum produce dramatic clusters. Flowering often indicates the plant is thriving in UK conditions.

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Buying and Caring for Your Order

How are succulents shipped?
We send most plants bare-root to protect them during transit. This reduces the risk of rot and ensures they arrive clean and ready to pot into fresh soil.

Will my succulent look like the photos?
Yes – but seasonal changes may greatly affect colour and size. Many succulents develop stronger colours in summer sunshine. This is also when most of our product images are taken, and some naturally change form throughout the year, especially Aeonium, so if ordering in winter, your plant may look drastically different.

What should I do when my succulent order arrives?
Unpack your plants straight away and pot into free-draining soil. Water sparingly for the first week so the roots can settle.

Do you sell succulent gift vouchers?
Yes – Surreal Succulents digital gift vouchers are available in a range of values, making them perfect presents for plant lovers. Available here.