Why We Love Succulents

Welcome to the very first issue of Nanjala Weekly Cravings—a space where we share stories that inspire a love for design, nature, and everyday beauty. We hope this becomes your go-to read and that you’ll keep coming back for more.

In 2015, our founder, Teresa Nanjala Lubano, visited her dear friend, the late Margit Cleveland, at her home in Kyuna, Nairobi. Margit’s space was a true plant lover’s paradise—potted greenery lined her doorstep, a charming gazebo framed by blooms, and balconies brimming with lush foliage. Indoors and outdoors, her home radiated with the life and vibrancy of plants.

Teresa was captivated. Each visit revealed new bursts of colour, especially during Nairobi’s rainy season, when Margit’s collection seemed to thrive with blooms. Inspired, Teresa asked Margit for guidance on starting her own collection. Soon, she was nurturing roses, geraniums, yesterday-today-and-tomorrow, queen of the night, anthuriums, and even the dramatic (though toxic) lobelias and oleander.

But one visit sparked something deeper. In Margit’s garden, Teresa noticed an unusual plant—the Tillandsia, also called the Air Plant. Perched high on a tree, suspended mid-air, it seemed almost magical. That was the beginning of Teresa’s enduring love affair with succulents.

She began collecting not only Tillandsia but also Echeverias, Sedums, Crassulas, and Cacti. Their unusual textures, sculptural shapes, thick leaves, and delicate (sometimes rare) flowers became a constant source of wonder. Teresa even kept a notebook, carefully jotting down botanical names and researching their origins, care, and symbolism.

Why Succulents Capture Our Imagination

1. Low Maintenance, High Reward
   Succulents are incredibly resilient. They require very little water and thrive with minimal fuss, making them perfect for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers.

2. Longevity That Lasts
   With proper care, many succulents can live for more than a decade. And with prices starting from as little as KES 800, they’re affordable investments in beauty.

3. Perfect for Small Spaces
   From balconies and patios to sunny corners indoors, succulents adapt beautifully. For urban dwellers in Nairobi and beyond, they bring nature into apartments and flats where gardens aren’t possible.

Succulents are more than plants—they’re natural décor, wellness boosters, and quiet reminders that beauty can thrive even in simplicity.

From Inspiration to Brand

What began as one woman’s fascination grew into a movement. Shop Nanjala was born out of a wish to share this simple, accessible beauty with the community. Soon after, Nanjala Blooms launched as a sub-brand, curating the very best species of succulents and other plants for our customers.

Today, we are proud to say that what started with a friend’s garden has blossomed into a vibrant part of our story—and hopefully, yours too.

Because with succulents, no green thumbs are required—just a little love.