Expert: Chris Saddler - 7/1/2003

Question
hi Chris,
just what exactly are succulents?  and why are they called that?

            thanks!  dean.

Answer
Hello again Dean,

Succulents are a category of plants that store fluid in the leaves.  They as a group - have thick fleshy leaves.  The group includes cacti as well as many others.  They are generally drought tolerant.

I don't know where the name came from Dean.  My "context clue" definition is, plants that "suck" up water during periods of heavy moisture then store it for future use.

LOL.  How's that?  I honestly don't know the definition.  You've sent me to the online encyclopedia tonight.

Chris