With the Austin Cactus and Succulent Society, What Grows Together Goes Together

The No. 1 rule about succulents, according to Austin Cactus and Succulent Society’s VP of Membership Mike Rupe, is that “not all succulents are cacti, but a cactus is a succulent.” He elaborates, “A succulent plant is a plant that can store water in its body, leaves, and roots and survive a hot climate.”

And that’s about all you need to know before attending your first ACSS meeting. Oh, and there are free plants.

Since its founding in 1975, the ACSS has been a cornerstone of community engagement and preservation efforts. Meeting monthly at the Zilker Botanical Garden, the society has cultivated a dedicated group of enthusiasts who share a passion for cacti and succulents. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in these fascinating plants, regardless of background or experience level.

Sara Sturtevant, the current president of ACSS, highlights the welcoming nature of the club. “We welcome everyone and try to be inclusive,” says Sturtevant. “Our members range from those who’ve never owned a plant to professionals and academics who’ve been involved for decades.”

This diversity in age and experience creates a rich, supportive environment where members can learn and grow together, pun intended. Monthly meetings provide additional opportunities for learning and camaraderie, featuring presentations on a wide range of topics, including specific plant species and preservation efforts. 

“We love to nerd out and rally around a nice PowerPoint,” laughs Sturtevant. The society also maintains an extensive library of cactus and succulent publications available to all members to expand their knowledge.

The club is deeply committed to preservation and education. As part of their mission, ACSS promotes the study, propagation, and preservation of cacti and other succulents. They also work to raise public awareness about these unique plants. The club’s commitment to community and preservation is showcased in their biannual shows and sales, which are eagerly anticipated events. The fall show, held at the Zilker Botanical Garden, is particularly popular, with lines forming out the door for the unique plant offerings.

“We use the funds from our shows and sales to support research, education, and preservation efforts,” explains Sturtevant. The society regularly makes donations to educational endeavors and projects across Texas and beyond.

The shows are more than just marketplaces — they’re vibrant celebrations of the cactus and succulent community. Members showcase their prized plants, creating a breathtaking display of botanical diversity. Daily silent auctions, hourly plant raffles, and expert advice from passionate growers add to the excitement.

“The kiddos love the plant raffle,” says Sturtevant. “It’s a fun way to engage the younger generation in our hobby.”

Field trips are another highlight for ACSS members. These excursions offer a chance to see cacti and succulents in their natural habitats and to learn from experienced guides. Rupe recalls a memorable trip to Big Bend. “We stayed out there for five nights, geeking out over the neat plants and photographing species in their real environment.”

In essence, the Austin Cactus & Succulent Society is a thriving community of plant enthusiasts dedicated to preservation, education, and the enjoyment of cacti and succulents. As Sturtevant puts it, “We came for the plants and stayed for the people.” The society’s ongoing efforts ensure that this passion will continue to flourish for generations to come.

Visit austincss.com and don’t miss their upcoming Fall Plant Show and Sale on August 31 and September 1.