A little late, but for our very first column of 2025, we’re sticking to the basics: "Recently Acquired New Varieties." Since PUKUBOOK is a plant encyclopedia, we’re always updating it with new releases little by little. But among those, there aren’t actually that many species for which I’ve both written an article and taken photos. After all, if I can’t get my hands on the real plant (or borrow one to take photos), it simply costs money. Running a shop like “PUKUBOOK SUCCULENTS” is honestly all about having the funds to bring in new sample species, and using proceeds from sharing extras to order even more samples or go out on field trips. Being able to keep introducing new varieties is possible only because of the support from all of you.

So with lots of gratitude, let’s dedicate this column to introducing these "crystallized bits of support." Thank you so much for making this possible!

Variegates

Variegated forms are classic as ever—the priciest newcomers on the block, even now. Some of them are honestly very far from affordable, but I still take the plunge and order them just to feature in the encyclopedia. And none of this would be possible without everyone’s support—thank you!

Unique and Unusual Forms

Frills, bumps, monstrose—these distinctive newcomers stand out by shape alone.

First in Japan?

Since I occasionally order seedlings from overseas, I sometimes end up showcasing varieties that have never been seen in Japan before. But as a "dictionary," I’m committed to thoroughly researching each variety’s origin and creating new entries—so the actual number I can introduce is limited. If I didn’t care about research, there’d be ten or even a hundred times more unlisted overseas varieties out there!

Korean & Chinese Seedlings

Whether or not they’re actually bred in Korea, these varieties really have that "Korean succulent" vibe. And increasingly, the same techniques are being used in China, giving rise to new plants that debut under Chinese names.

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Mixveria & Yuuki-En Hybrids

Famous domestic-bred hybrids. There are still many left unchecked, and some yet to be photographed...

Agave

Agave continues to be hugely popular! The new varieties appearing on the market feel like they’ve been through some pretty tight selection.

Haworthia

Here are some of the most affordable Haworthia I’ve found. Even among these budget-friendly finds, beautiful new faces keep appearing to brighten up the collection!

Drosanthemum

Drosanthemum has been booming since 2024. Personally, I find myself drawn more to the unusual types than to the classic sparkly mini varieties...

Other New Faces

Miscellaneous new varieties from other genera. Some of these I’ve even written entire feature articles about—either out of fondness, or because they were tricky to handle!

Wrap-Up

That was quite the name-dump, but at the end of the day, this is really just a simple “New Arrivals” update. Honestly, I should do this way more often instead of letting them pile up—I’d like to introduce new faces on a regular monthly basis, at least. At this pace, there’s always something new to share!