The “Annapops” plant, a cultivar of Sedum rubrotinctum, features plump, cylindrical leaves resembling jelly beans. These leaves develop vibrant red or orange tips under specific conditions. Its compact growth makes it an appealing choice for dish gardens and as a trailing element in hanging baskets.
Annapops Plant Care
Annapops succulents thrive with ample sunlight, needing at least six hours of direct sun daily for vibrant red and orange hues. Indoors, a south or west-facing window provides bright, indirect light. Insufficient light causes the plant to stretch and its leaves to revert to a greener shade, losing color.
Water Annapops using a “soak and dry” approach, allowing soil to dry completely between sessions. During warmer growing seasons, water every ten days; in cooler months, decrease to once a month or every two to three weeks. Overwatering leads to soft, mushy leaves and root rot, while underwatering causes wrinkled or shriveled foliage.
A well-draining succulent or cactus mix, often containing sand or grit, provides aeration and prevents water retention. Pots with drainage holes are essential for drainage, preventing root rot. Rich, moisture-retentive soils are unsuitable for these succulents.
Annapops prefers warm, dry conditions, thriving in indoor temperatures of 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 29 degrees Celsius). They tolerate brief drops to 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.7 degrees Celsius), but prolonged cold is damaging. Low humidity levels, between 40-50%, are optimal; high humidity increases fungal infection and root rot risk.
Fertilization is rarely necessary for Annapops, as they grow well without it. If desired, apply a diluted liquid succulent or cactus fertilizer sparingly, once a month during the active growing season in spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilizing, which harms roots and causes leaf discoloration.
Propagating Annapops
Propagating Annapops is straightforward, commonly achieved through leaf or stem cuttings.
Leaf Propagation
Gently twist a healthy, plump leaf from the stem, ensuring a clean break. Allow the detached leaf to dry and form a callus over the cut end for a few days to a week; this prevents rot. Once callused, place the leaf on top of well-draining soil, keeping it lightly moist until roots and new growth emerge.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings offer a faster propagation method. Select a healthy stem section, one to two inches long, and remove the lower leaves. Similar to leaf cuttings, allow the stem to callus for a few days before inserting it into a well-draining succulent potting mix. Place the pot in a bright area away from direct sunlight, and water gently once the soil is dry to encourage root development.
Common Annapops Issues
Annapops plants exhibit signs of distress, often related to watering practices.
Overwatering
Overwatering leads to soft, mushy, or yellowing leaves that eventually fall off. Stems may swell, and severe cases develop root rot, turning the plant dark and mushy. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent these issues.
Underwatering
Conversely, underwatering causes leaves to shrivel, wrinkle, or deflate as it depletes stored water. While Annapops tolerates some drought, consistent underwatering hinders growth and vitality. Adjusting the watering schedule to provide thorough soaking when the soil is dry resolves these symptoms.
Pests
Pest infestations are uncommon for Annapops, though mealybugs and aphids may appear. Mealybugs present as small, white, cottony masses in leaf crevices, while aphids are tiny insects found on new growth. A solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol sprayed directly on pests eliminates them, or a strong water stream dislodges aphids.
Leaf Coloration
Changes in leaf coloration are a response to light conditions. If an Annapops plant receives insufficient light, its vibrant red tips fade, and leaves become uniformly green. Providing more bright light restores the colors. However, a sudden transition to intense direct sunlight, especially after lower light, causes sunburn, appearing as brown or tan patches.