From our perspective, the single most critical factor in pot selection is one you cannot see: the root system. We are succulents that have evolved in arid, rocky environments with very little soil. Our roots are surprisingly long and fibrous, designed to quickly absorb every precious drop of fleeting rainfall and then retreat into a state of dormancy. However, they are extremely susceptible to rot if left sitting in moisture. A pot that does not facilitate the rapid and complete evacuation of water is a death sentence. Our roots need to drink and then dry out completely, mimicking the harsh, fast-drying conditions of our native habitat. The entire pot's soil volume must become dry within a few days after watering.
Drainage is not merely a "tip" for us; it is the foundation of our survival in cultivation. The pot you choose must have at least one large, unobstructed drainage hole in the bottom. Multiple holes are even better. This hole is our lifeline, allowing gravity to pull excess water away from our delicate root zone. Pots without drainage holes, no matter how aesthetically pleasing, create a sealed, swampy environment at the bottom where water pools. This stagnant water will inevitably lead to root rot, a condition that often proves fatal before any visible signs appear on our leaves. The material of the pot also contributes to drainage. Porous materials like unglazed terracotta are excellent because they allow water vapor to evaporate through the pot's walls, further accelerating the drying process and helping to keep our roots healthy and aerated.
When considering size, think "snug," not spacious. We are slow-growing plants that prefer to be slightly root-bound. A pot that is too large holds a greater volume of soil, which in turn retains water for a much longer period. This large, perpetually damp mass of soil around our small root system is a recipe for disaster. A pot should be only slightly wider than the total width of our plant cluster, typically allowing for about 1-2 centimeters (0.5-1 inch) of space between the plant and the pot's rim. More importantly, the pot should be shallow. Our roots grow primarily downward, not outward, and they do not require great depth. A deep pot creates a column of wet soil beneath us that stays damp long after the top layer has dried, again threatening rot. A shallow pot, often called a "bonsai" or "azalea" pot, provides the perfect depth for our root structure to develop without being surrounded by excess, moisture-retaining medium.
We are social plants that naturally grow in clusters in the wild. Grouping several of us together in one appropriately sized shallow pot is highly beneficial. This community planting creates its own healthy microclimate and helps to regulate moisture usage. The collective root mass will utilize the water in the soil more efficiently, leading to a more uniform and faster drying time compared to a single plant in a small pot. When planting us in a group, ensure the pot is wide and shallow, not deep. The spacing between individual plants should be minimal, just enough to allow for their natural growth and expansion over the coming years. This method not only mimics our natural growth habit but also makes for a more striking and natural-looking display.
