These Succulents Look Like They Have Lips

There are thousands of variety of succulents. From petite plants to trailing leaves that look great in hanging baskets, plant parents are sure to find a succulent that will thrive in every space. Common succulent house plants (particularly for beginners) include Jade plants, Aloe Vera, and Snake plants, but if you’re looking for something a little more unique, check out these eye-catching succulents that look like they have human lips.

Conophytum pageae, sometimes nicknamed the Lips plant or the Button plant, is a succulent perennial plant that is native to the Cape Province regions of South Africa.

Virtually stemless, they have a compact growing habit and produce small, spherical fleshy leaves, and a dimpled opening that resemble human lips thanks to the leaves’ striking pinky-red hue. During the growing months, the plant produces daisy-like petals that are grown up through the “lips”.

The plant has taken Reddit users by storm, who have been discussing the plant, noting its eye-catching leaves.

“I’m waiting for them to start singing…” one user wrote.

“Reminds me of the ‘Red Dwarf’ episode where they stuck googly eyes on their chins and pretended to be aliens.” said another.

“Kinda adorable” commented another.

If you’re interested in growing your own Conophytum pageae, it’s worth noting that these succulents are incredibly rare and the correct steps should be taken so they stay healthy.

Carissa Kasper, Founder of Seed & Nourish, told Apartment Therapy that succulents like Conophytum pageae are a great choice for beginners as they require minimal care, provided they are given the right conditions.

“The most important condition for Conophytym pageae is to be placed in bright light with minimal direct sun. This means locating near a sunny window, ideally Southern-facing, where it will receive light throughout the day,” she explained. The perfect spot would be a foot back and just to the right of a Southern-facing window to capture a few hours of direct morning rays and bright light the rest of the day. Behind a sheer curtain drawn over a Southern-facing window would also be ideal,”

Kasper noted that it’s important not to overwater Conophytum pageae—or any type of succulent—as this can quickly damage the plant.

“You want the soil to completely dry between waterings. If you stick your finger in the soil and it comes out without any soil clinging to it, that’s when you know it’s time to water. Don’t be afraid to water deeply – but add it slowly with a few passes of the watering can and time between for the water to sink in until it begins to drain through. When they are actively growing, this may be once a week. In periods of dormancy, this may be monthly or less.”

Additionally, plant expert Mike Futia notes the importance of using the right type of soil.

“Use a well-draining soil mix specifically designed for succulents or mix your own using a combination of potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand,” he says. ” Conophytum pageae do not need a lot of fertilization, but if you choose to do so, use a balanced succulent fertilizer at half strength once a month during the growing season.”