Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

On occasion, we ship worldwide with the correct paperwork. All orders leaving the UK are sent with a phytosanitary certificate and import permits (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.

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.

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.

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.

Succulents require a free-draining mix. We recommend a blend of 1/3 John Innes No.2 (or any loamy substrate), 1/3 coconut coir and 1/3 grit or perlite. Avoid multi-purpose compost on its own, or even cactus soil on its own, as they hold too much moisture for UK conditions. If you only have multi-purpose compost, simply adding perlite or grit can help create a suitable mix. Here is our compost mix.

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 are also recommended.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Unpack your plants straight away and pot into free-draining soil. Water sparingly for the first week so the roots can settle. If there is something off about your order—such as an unhappy plant, or a missing/incorrect item—let us know and we will make it right.

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