Burgundy succulents captivate with their rich, deep hues, offering a striking visual contrast. Popular for their unique aesthetic, their intense coloration adds dramatic flair to any space.
Why Succulents Turn Burgundy
Succulents develop burgundy coloration as a natural response to environmental factors, a process known as “stress coloring.” This vibrant change is primarily due to the production of pigments called anthocyanins. Anthocyanins are responsible for red, purple, and blue hues, acting as a protective mechanism against intense sunlight and other stressors. When exposed to conditions like strong sunlight, cooler temperatures, or mild drought, succulents increase their production of these pigments. The increased anthocyanin content helps shield the plant’s tissues from potential damage, making the plant more resilient while also enhancing its visual appeal.
Common Burgundy Succulent Types
Many succulent varieties display stunning burgundy tones.
- Echeveria ‘Black Prince’ is a popular choice, forming star-shaped rosettes of fleshy, pointed leaves that range from deep burgundy to nearly black. When exposed to full sun, its foliage can become even darker, providing a striking contrast with any new green growth in the center.
- Sedum rubrotinctum ‘Aurora’ (Pink Jelly Bean) features plump, jellybean-shaped leaves that can shift from pale green to vibrant pink or apricot, with the brightest pinks emerging under direct sunlight.
- Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ is recognized for its long, propeller-like leaves that transform from lime green to brilliant red or burgundy, especially with ample sun exposure and some drought.
- Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’ (Black Rose) is a shrub-like succulent that develops large rosettes of glossy, dark burgundy to almost black leaves when grown in full sun. In partial shade, its rosettes might appear more reddish-purple with a green center.
Care for Burgundy Succulents
Achieving and maintaining rich burgundy coloration requires specific care.
Light
Providing adequate light is paramount, as bright, direct sunlight is the primary catalyst for anthocyanin production, intensifying the deep hues. Most burgundy succulents benefit from at least six hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily, with some varieties tolerating or even preferring full sun for enhanced color. Gradually acclimate plants to increased light to prevent sunburn, especially when moving them from a shaded environment.
Watering
Proper watering techniques are crucial to both health and color development. Succulents should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. This “soak and dry” method prevents root rot and encourages the mild drought stress that can enhance burgundy pigmentation. Overwatering can lead to greening of the leaves and serious health issues.
Soil
The right soil mix is essential for preventing waterlogging and promoting healthy root growth. A well-draining succulent or cactus mix, often amended with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand, ensures proper aeration and drainage. This gritty composition prevents moisture from lingering around the roots, which is vital for these drought-adapted plants.
Temperature and Fertilization
Temperature also plays a role in color intensity, with cooler temperatures, particularly during the cooler months, often contributing to more vibrant burgundy tones. Most burgundy succulents prefer mild to warm temperatures, generally between 65°F and 75°F, and require protection from frost. Humidity levels typical of indoor environments are generally suitable, as high humidity can be detrimental. Fertilization should be minimal; succulents thrive in nutrient-poor conditions, and excessive nutrients can lead to lush green growth at the expense of color. If fertilizing, use a balanced, low-nitrogen liquid fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength during the growing season.
Addressing Common Problems
Even with careful attention, burgundy succulents can encounter common issues.
Fading Color
One frequent concern is the fading or loss of their characteristic deep color. This typically indicates insufficient light exposure, as strong sunlight is necessary for the production of burgundy pigments. Moving the plant to a brighter location or supplementing with grow lights can help restore its vibrant hues. Overwatering can also contribute to color fading, causing the plant to become greener and less stressed.
Etiolation
Etiolation, or stretching, is another common problem stemming from inadequate light. When succulents do not receive enough light, they stretch abnormally towards a light source, resulting in elongated stems and widely spaced, paler leaves. While an etiolated plant will not revert to its compact form, increasing light exposure for new growth can prevent further stretching. Severely etiolated plants can sometimes be “beheaded” and re-rooted to create a more compact plant.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious issue caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Symptoms include mushy stems or leaves, blackening, and a general decline in plant health. Prevention involves using well-draining soil, pots with drainage holes, and adhering to the soak-and-dry watering method. If root rot is suspected, the plant should be removed from its pot, affected roots trimmed, and repotted in fresh, dry soil.
Pests
Succulents can also be susceptible to common pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cotton-like masses, often found in leaf crevices. Spider mites create fine webbing and can cause stippling on leaves, while scale insects look like small, hard bumps on stems and leaves. Isolating affected plants and treating them with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab for mealybugs and scale, or insecticidal soap for spider mites, can help manage infestations. Regular inspection helps in early detection and treatment, preventing widespread issues.