Do Succulents Need Direct Light?

An arrangement of various colorful succulents densely packed together

It’s no secret that succulents love light. Originating from dry, sun-drenched deserts and semi-deserts, these are hardy plants. But does that mean succulents require direct sunlight to thrive? Not exactly. Surprisingly, the answer isn’t so straightforward. Understanding the balance between light and shade is key to keeping your succulents healthy and vibrant.

How Much Sunlight is Too Much?

While succulents can handle some direct sunlight, too much exposure too quickly can be harmful. Like humans, these plants are susceptible to sunburn if they aren’t gradually introduced to increased sunlight. Moving your succulents from a shaded spot on a coffee table to a windowsill with four or more hours of direct sun can cause serious damage, leaving them with unsightly burns. To prevent this, it’s essential to acclimate your succulents to brighter light slowly.

Identifying Sunburn

A sunburn typically appears as a brown or hardened scar-like area on your succulent’s leaves. Solid green, pale-colored, and variegated varieties are at increased risk. Unfortunately, unlike humans, succulents can’t recover from sunburn once it’s occurred—the damaged areas will be permanently scarred. If you find the discoloration unsightly, just trim away the affected leaves to maintain the plant’s overall health and aesthetics.

A close-up of a succulent with brown, sunburned tips on its leaves

Ideal Lighting Conditions for Succulents

Most succulents need at least three hours of bright, indirect sunlight each day. It’s worth noting that morning sunlight is usually more gentle—thanks to cooler temperatures—compared to the much harsher, hotter afternoon sun. If you plan to increase your succulent’s exposure to light by moving it to a brighter location, make sure to do so gradually over the course of two to three weeks. This helps the plant adapt to its new environment without stress.

Ready to take the next step in plant parenthood and welcome a few succulents into your space? Check out our recommended planters below, and don’t miss our quick and easy guide to create stunning succulent bowls. With the right tools and a little creativity, you’ll be able to craft beautiful succulent displays that bring life to your home.