As cute plants that survive on very little water, succulents are rapidly gaining popularity as houseplants. But despite their ability to live with minimal water and inhospitable conditions, many succulent species are actually threatened or endangered, facing challenges from climate change, habitat loss, and a global illegal trade market where rare succulents can be poached and sold for up to $1,000 per plant. This week, we discuss these threats to succulents, contemplate if casual plant parents need to be concerned or not, and consider where we go from here. With special guest Dr. Jared Margulies: Assistant Professor of Political Ecology at the University of Alabama.
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