The Ruby Necklace Plant (Othonna capensis), also known as String of Rubies or Little Pickles, is a trailing succulent admired for its distinctive appearance. It features slender stems adorned with fleshy, bean-shaped leaves. These leaves display a vibrant purple-red hue when exposed to ample sunlight, though they remain green in lower light. The plant’s cascading growth makes it a popular choice for hanging baskets or as a decorative element trailing over container edges, adding a unique splash of color.
Ruby Necklace Plant Care Guide
Light
Ruby Necklace plants thrive in bright, indirect light, which encourages their signature purple-red coloration. They can tolerate some direct morning sun, but shield them from intense afternoon sun to prevent scorching. Inadequate light causes leaves to remain green and the plant to become leggy. Providing at least six hours of daily sunlight helps maintain vibrant hues and compact growth.
Watering
Like most succulents, the Ruby Necklace plant prefers a “soak and dry” watering method. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. To check soil moisture, insert your finger about an inch or two into the soil; if it feels dry, water thoroughly until excess water drains. Overwatering leads to mushy stems and leaves, while underwatering can cause leaves to shrivel or become crispy.
Soil
Well-draining soil is important for the health of a Ruby Necklace plant. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal, as it provides necessary drainage and aeration. Enhance drainage further by amending the soil with materials like perlite or coarse sand. Good drainage helps prevent water from sitting around the roots, which can lead to fungal diseases and root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Ruby Necklace plants prefer warm temperatures, generally thriving between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 27 degrees Celsius). They are not cold tolerant and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) for extended periods. Average household humidity levels are usually suitable. Avoid placing them near cold windows, heating vents, or drafty areas.
Fertilizing
Ruby Necklace plants are not heavy feeders and do not require frequent fertilization. During their active growing season in spring and summer, apply a balanced, water-soluble succulent fertilizer diluted to half strength. Fertilizing once a month or every few weeks is generally sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing, and cease fertilization entirely during the plant’s dormant winter months.
Pruning
Pruning the Ruby Necklace plant helps maintain its shape, promotes bushier growth, and encourages a fuller appearance. Trim back leggy stems or remove any dead or damaged foliage. Use clean, sharp scissors or a knife to ensure clean cuts and prevent damage to the delicate stems. Pruned cuttings can often be used for propagation.
Propagating Ruby Necklace Plants
Propagating Ruby Necklace plants is a straightforward process using stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section 4-6 inches long with at least two to three nodes. After taking the cutting, allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for one to two days; this helps prevent rot when planted.
Once callused, plant the cutting in a well-draining succulent soil mix. Gently push the cut end into the soil, ensuring some nodes are buried, as roots will emerge from these points. Keep the soil lightly moist and place the cuttings in a bright, airy spot. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be cared for as a mature specimen.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Several common issues can affect Ruby Necklace plants. If leaves appear shriveled or crispy, it usually indicates underwatering. Increase watering frequency, ensuring the soil is thoroughly moistened each time.
Conversely, mushy stems or leaves, along with soggy soil, are signs of overwatering and can lead to root rot. To address this, allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering and ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
A lack of the characteristic purple-red color, with leaves remaining green, often points to insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with more indirect sunlight will encourage the vibrant coloration to return.
Ruby Necklace plants can occasionally attract pests such as mealybugs or spider mites. Regularly inspecting the plant helps catch infestations early, which can then be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.