A Succulent is a type of plant that stores water in its leaves, stem and in some cases, its roots.  They have adapted to live in areas that are very dry and arid so they prefer to be watered only when the soil has completely dried out. Succulents come in an amazing array of shapes, sizes and colors. Some of the most familiar succulents include Echeverias, Aloes, Sedums, Sempervivums, Haworthias & Gasteria. Cacti are a specialized type of succulent.