Succulents That Look Like Roses

If you love the look of roses but need a tougher plant, you’re in luck. There are several stunning succulents that look like roses, offering that classic floral beauty with minimal fuss. These plants form tight, layered rosettes that mimic rose blooms, and they thrive on neglect. They’re perfect for busy gardeners or those with less-than-ideal growing conditions.

This guide will show you the best varieties and how to care for them. You can enjoy rose-like beauty in your home or garden all year round, without the high maintenance of actual roses. Let’s look at these charming and resilient plants.

This group of succulents is known for their symmetrical, petal-like leaves. They form rosettes that can be green, purple, pink, or even dusty blue. Here are the most popular ones you can find.

Greenovia Dodrantalis (Mountain Rose)

This is the classic rose look-alike. Its leaves curve inwards tightly, creating a perfect, unopened rosebud shape. It often has a soft, powdery coating called farina. In summer, it may go dormant, closing up even tighter until cooler weather returns.

Echeveria Species

Many Echeverias are dead ringers for roses. They come in a huge range of colors and sizes. Some of the best rose-like varieties include:

Echeveria ‘Lola’: Has pale lavender-pink leaves that form a perfect, tight rosette.
Echeveria ‘Perle von Nürnberg’: Features beautiful pearlescent pink leaves with purple hints.
Echeveria ‘Black Prince’: Offers a dramatic, dark burgundy rosette that looks like a deep red rose.

Graptopetalum Paraguayense (Ghost Plant)

This succulent has thick, fleshy leaves in a lovely rosette shape. Its color changes with sun exposure, from pale blue-gray to pinkish-yellow. The rosettes often grow on long, trailing stems, creating a cascading effect.

Aeonium Species

Aeoniums have flatter, saucer-shaped rosettes that still carry a rose-like appearance. Aeonium arboreum ‘Zwartkop’ is a standout with its near-black foliage. They are winter growers, which means they’re most active in the cooler months.

Sedum ‘Pork and Beans’ (Jelly Beans)

While not a single rosette, this sedum’s chubby leaves cluster densely on stems. When stressed by sun, the tips turn a vibrant red, creating a colorful, rose-like mound from a distance. It’s a fantastic ground cover option.

How to Care for Your Rose-Like Succulents

These plants are easy, but they do have specific needs. Getting it right means they’ll thrive and keep their beautiful form for years to come.

Light Requirements

Bright light is non-negotiable. They need at least 6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily. A south or east-facing window is ideal indoors. Without enough light, they will stretch out and lose their tight shape. If you move them outside in summer, introduce them to direct sun gradually to avoid sunburn.

Soil and Potting

Well-draining soil is the most important factor. Use a specialized cactus or succulent mix. You can make your own by mixing regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand. Always choose a pot with a drainage hole. Terracotta pots are excellent because they allow the soil to dry out faster.

Watering the Right Way

Overwatering is the fastest way to kill these plants. They store water in there leaves, so they can handle drought. Follow the “soak and dry” method:

Water deeply until water runs out the drainage hole.
Then, let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
Stick your finger in the soil; if the top inch is dry, it’s time to water.

In winter, water much less frequently, sometimes only once a month.

Temperature and Environment

Most prefer temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. They can’t handle frost. If you live in a cold climate, bring outdoor plants inside before the first freeze. They also enjoy good air circulation, which helps prevent pests and fungal issues.

Propagating Your Succulent Roses

One of the joys of succulents is how easy they are to propagate. You can create many new plants from just one. Here’s the simple process for leaf propagation.

Choose a Leaf: Gently twist a healthy, plump leaf from the stem. Get the entire base.
Let it Callous: Place the leaf on a dry surface out of direct sun for 2-4 days. A callus will form over the torn end.
Lay on Soil: Place the calloused leaves on top of dry succulent soil. Do not bury them.
Wait for Roots: Mist the soil lightly every few days when it’s dry. In a few weeks, tiny roots and a new rosette will appear.
Plant: Once the mother leaf shrivels and the new plant is established, you can pot it normally.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even tough plants can have issues. Here’s how to spot and fix common problems.

Leggy Growth (Etiolation): This means not enough light. The stem stretches, and leaves space out. Move the plant to a brighter location. You can behead the top, let it callous, and replant it.
Soft, Mushy Leaves: A sign of overwatering. Stop watering immediately. Check the roots for rot. If present, cut away the rot, let the plant dry, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Brown, Crispy Leaves: Usually means sunburn or underwatering. If in strong sun, provide some afternoon shade. If the soil is bone dry, give it a good soak.
Pests: Watch for mealybugs (white cottony spots) or aphids. Wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. For larger infestations, use insecticidal soap.

Design Ideas for Display

These succulents are incredibly versatile in the garden or home. Their rose-like shapes make them perfect focal points.

Container Gardens: Plant a single large Echeveria as a “thriller” in the center of a pot. Surround it with trailing sedums for a beautiful, low-maintenance display.
Living Wreaths: Create a stunning succulent wreath using various rosette types. It’s a project that lasts for years with minimal care.
Rock Gardens: Plant them among stones and gravel. The setting mimics their natural habitat and provides excellent drainage.
Indoor Arrangements: Use shallow, wide bowls (with drainage!) to make a living centerpiece. Combine different colors and textures for visual interest.

Seasonal Care Tips

Your care routine should change slightly with the seasons to keep your plants at there best.

Spring and Summer (Growing Season)

This is when they do most of their growing. Water more regularly (following the soak and dry method). You can fertilize once in spring with a diluted, balanced fertilizer made for succulents. It’s also the best time to repot or propagate.

Fall and Winter (Dormant Season)

Growth slows down or stops. Reduce watering significantly. Protect them from cold drafts and frost. Ensure they still get as much light as possible, as days are shorter. Hold off on fertilizing until spring.

FAQ: Succulents That Look Like Roses

Do these succulents actually flower?
Yes, most do! They send up tall flower stalks with bell-shaped or star-shaped blooms. The flowers are often pink, orange, or yellow. Some people cut the stalks off to keep the plant’s energy focused on the rosette.

Can I grow these indoors?
Absolutely. Just make sure they get enough bright light. A sunny windowsill is perfect. Rotate the pot occasionally so all sides get light and the plant grows evenly.

How often should I repot my succulent?
Every 2-3 years, or when you see roots growing out of the drainage hole. Spring is the best time to repot. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.

Are these plants safe for pets?
Most, like Echeveria and Graptopetalum, are non-toxic. However, it’s always best to check the specific variety and keep plants out of reach of curious pets to avoid any stomach upset.

Why are the bottom leaves dying?
It’s normal for the lowest, oldest leaves to dry up and fall off as the plant grows. This is how the plant makes room for new growth. Just gently pull away the dried leaves to keep the plant tidy and prevent pests.

Adding succulents that look like roses to your collection is a wonderful way to enjoy perpetual blooms. With there sculptural forms and easy care, they bring lasting structure and color to any space. By following these simple tips on light, water, and soil, you can keep your succulent roses healthy and beautiful for many seasons to come.