Succulents come in varieties ranging from tight rosettes to trailing stems, foliage colors from grey-green to burgundy, and most flower modestly if at all. They're compact enough for a shelf or desk and need far less fuss than most houseplants.

Bright indirect light from a window, water sparingly when the soil dries completely, and allow good air circulation. They prefer staying dry to soggy, so err on the side of neglect.