Succulents exhibit a variety of characteristics when they are growing vigorously. Some varieties can show significant color changes, while others may be covered with a thick layer of farina, and some will even alter the shape of their leaves. Today, we will focus on the lines often found on succulent leaves. These lines may be referred to as "lines," "white lines," or "dark lines." 

The appearance of these lines is primarily influenced by the physical characteristics of the leaf surface and the maintenance conditions. Specifically, when the leaves of certain varieties have distinct edges and corners and are covered with white farina, these lines can become prominent.

When the leaves of succulents are squeezed for an extended period, they may develop indentations or lines on their surface. However, these indentations will disappear on their own after the succulents grow for some time.

The surface of leaves can be uneven for various reasons. A white powdery substance called farina covers the leaf surface, often accumulating along the edges where the leaves bend. This buildup creates distinct lines. It reminds me how the foundation can accumulate under my eyes and at the corners of my nose after applying makeup.

What Does The Lines Look Like?/How To Identify The Lines?

As mentioned at the beginning, the premise for the formation of lines is that the leaves of the succulent variety itself have the characteristics of ridges, and the succulent has the genus to form the farina. As shown in the following picture, the one on the left is a variety with ridges and farina, and the one on the right is a variety with smooth leaves and farina.

If you have seen this picture on the Internet, some artists have made beautiful paintings on the leaves of succulents with thick white farina; these lines are certainly not the white lines we are discussing. (Referring to A); Haworthia succulents have layers of white stripes on the leaves, a dominant characteristic of biological genes and is not what we call white lines. (Referring to B); sometimes, succulents will absorb too much water, and the leaves will burst, forming white scars, which are also not white lines. (Referring to C); some white lines are caused by insect pests, which are also not white lines. (Referring to D)

How To Get White Lines On Succulents' Leaves

In my view, white lines on leaves are a fascinating feature. They can be artificially induced but sometimes appear on unexpected succulent varieties. Some plants may exhibit white lines for a limited time, after which these lines may fade away. If you come across white lines on leaves, take a moment to appreciate the diverse patterns created by organisms in response to environmental changes.

For succulent varieties with pronounced leaf edges or corners, if you want to achieve white lines through proper care, focus primarily on three factors: water control, light, and temperature variation.

Water control: Water control refers to providing succulents with water only when they are very thirsty or have stopped growing due to lack of moisture. It's important to note that this technique should only be applied to mature succulents. For beginners, attempting to control the water for young succulents can easily lead to unhealthy plants, often resulting in "zombie succulents" or even the loss of the plants altogether.

Light: Succulents thrive in ample sunlight. Two types of succulents are more likely to develop white lines for those grown outdoors or under supplemental grow lights throughout the year. However, succulents grown outside may be impacted by rain and intense sunlight during the summer months, making the occurrence and aesthetic appeal of white lines less favorable compared to spring and autumn.

Temperature difference: The temperature difference is another key for forming white lines, as it influences the turning degree of the succulent leaves and the formation of farina. Alongside light, the temperature difference is essential for the development of farina.

A List Of Popular Succulent Varieties With White Lines. (Succulent newbie friendly)

● Echeveria Ice Green (Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐)

Echeveria Ice Green is a compact succulent with thick leaves. Typically, it displays a light blue-green color. However, the edges and corners of the leaves are not very pronounced, which makes it challenging for novice succulent enthusiasts to care for this plant. As a result, you may not often see the characteristic white lines that can appear on the leaves. This succulent is better suited for experienced plant lovers, gardeners equipped with supplemental lighting, or those in regions with ideal growing conditions, such as California.

● Echeveria Blue Bird (Difficulty: ⭐⭐)

Echeveria Blue Bird, which is similar to Echeveria Laui, is a variety known for its distinct farina. However, unlike Echeveria Laui, Echeveria Blue Bird features prominent leaf edges, which makes it easier for the leaves to develop white lines. Despite this characteristic, Echeveria Blue Bird is sensitive to humidity, which can cause its rosette shape to flatten. As a result, achieving those white lines can become challenging.

● Echeveria Champagne (Difficulty: ⭐)

Echeveria Champagne comes in various colors, such as salmon, brown, and red. Regardless of its color, it will quickly develop white lines when exposed to sufficient light.

● Echeveria Mexican Snowball (Difficulty: ⭐)

Echeveria Mexican Snowball or Echeveria Elegans Mexican Snowball is a rosette-shaped succulent with compact leaves. The mutual compression between the leaves mostly forms the white lines on the leaves.

● Echeveria tolimanensis (Difficulty: ⭐)

The leaf cross-section of Echeveria tolimanensis is prominent, particularly in the upper part of the leaf. Once the farina forms, the white lines become very beautiful.

● Echeveria Psyche (Difficulty: ⭐)

The leaves of Echeveria Psyche are oval-shaped. With adequate light, distinct white lines become visible, and the leaves can turn a charming red.

● Echeveria 'Nebula' (Difficulty: ⭐)

The white lines on Echeveria 'Nebula' closely resemble those on Echeveria Psyche, as both are found on the front of the leaves. However, Echeveria 'Nebula' has longer, oval-shaped leaves that are more slender at the tips compared to Echeveria Psyche.

● Echeveria Vincent Cato (Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐)

Echeveria Vincent Cato is a unique variety of succulents that may appear ordinary when not thriving. However, those who have witnessed its enchanting feather-like patterns are often left in awe. Echeveria Vincent Cato requires ample light and a significant temperature difference to develop these distinctive feather lines, which is very rare.

● Pachyphytum Compactum (Difficulty: ⭐)

The farina on the surface of Pachyphytum compactum is subtle, but the leaf angles, edges, and corners are quite pronounced. This makes it a variety that quickly develops white lines. It is one of the types with distinct white line characteristics and is very suitable for beginners looking to collect succulents.

Since then, readers should develop a deep understanding of white lines in succulents. I enjoy observing succulent leaves' unique characteristics, from their slender tips and regular plant shapes to the intact farina. The presence of white lines, in particular, showcases the charm of nature and often leaves people in awe. 

If you're interested in succulent varieties featuring white lines, you can cultivate beautiful varieties in about six months by selecting the right variety and employing the correct maintenance methods. Feel free to share your thoughts or ask questions about the allure of succulents in the comments section!