Whisker-like roots on succulents: Are they normal?

If you've had your succulent a while, you may eventually notice some aerial roots or air roots forming along the stem. While this isn't a major problem, it is a sign your succulent needs attention.

To help you even further, click the link below to download my free cheat sheet to see what it looks like when your succulents need more or less water. 

Basically, they are just roots that grow on the stem of your succulent rather than in the soil. They are usually pink or white. 

What are aerial roots?

Generally aerial roots will form on a succulent that isn't getting enough water and often when it's in a humid environment.

What causes aerial roots to grow?

Notice how this succulent is extremely dried up at the bottom and has put out a lot of new air roots. This plant is also very stretched out due to lack of sunlight. Lack of sunlight can sometimes cause a succulent to put out air roots.

Nope. It tends to be the succulents with a stem, such as Echeverias or tender Sedums. Generally you won't see aerial roots on Haworthias or Aloes. Also, if you are watering correctly, you likely won't see aerial roots at all. 

Do all succulents grow aerial roots?

You are more likely to encounter air roots with succulents that grow quickly and are in their active growing season. For example, Graptoveria ‘Fred Ives' and Graptopetalums grow quite quickly and tend to stretch out easily if they don't get enough light. 

Tap the link below to see full details on how to help your succulents with aerial roots.

More Succulent Topics

What to do with Succulents Growing Tall 

How to Water Succulent Plants 

Succulent Sunburn and Too Much Heat