The Othonna Ruby Necklace (Othonna capensis), also known as String of Rubies or Little Pickles, is a succulent with trailing stems and fleshy, bean-shaped leaves. These leaves turn vibrant ruby red or purple when exposed to ample sunlight, contrasting with its small, yellow, daisy-like flowers. Its easy care and striking coloration make it a popular choice.
Othonna Ruby Necklace Care
Light Requirements
Othonna Ruby Necklace thrives in bright light, from indirect to full sun. Direct sun exposure encourages the leaves to develop red and purple tones. Placing the plant near a south or west-facing window indoors is ideal. Insufficient light can cause stems to stretch and leaves to revert to a greener shade.
Watering Needs
As a succulent, Othonna Ruby Necklace is drought-tolerant, storing water in its leaves and stems. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until drainage, then allow the soil to dry completely before rewatering. Avoid consistently soggy soil. During cooler winter months, reduce watering as the plant’s needs decrease.
Soil Preferences
This plant requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root development. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended. Enhance drainage by mixing in amendments like perlite or coarse sand. Poor drainage can lead to compacted roots and stunted growth.
Temperature and Humidity
Othonna Ruby Necklace prefers warm temperatures, ideally 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is not frost tolerant and needs protection from temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Average household humidity is sufficient, as it does not require high humidity. Place the plant away from cold drafts or heating vents to maintain stable conditions.
Feeding Your Plant
Othonna Ruby Necklace is not a heavy feeder and requires minimal fertilization. During its active growing season (spring and summer), apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. Fertilize once a month or every six weeks, at half strength. Cease fertilization entirely during dormant winter months.
Propagating Othonna Ruby Necklace
Propagating Othonna Ruby Necklace is straightforward, most commonly through stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem section, 3-6 inches long, using clean shears. Remove leaves from the lower portion that would be beneath the soil line. Allow the cutting to air dry for one to two days until the cut end forms a callus. This callusing prevents rot once planted.
Once callused, plant the cutting directly into a well-draining succulent soil mix. Alternatively, some growers root cuttings in water until roots are a few inches long before transferring to soil. Keep the soil barely moist while roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks.
Common Issues and Solutions
Root rot is a frequent problem, stemming from overwatering or inadequate drainage. Symptoms include mushy, discolored stems and wilting leaves. To address this, allow the soil to dry completely between waterings, ensure the pot has drainage holes, and consider repotting into fresh, well-draining soil after trimming affected roots.
If your Othonna Ruby Necklace appears leggy with diminished color, turning greener instead of vibrant red or purple, it is due to insufficient light. This indicates the plant is stretching to find more light. Move the plant to a brighter location, such as a sunny window or under a grow light, to restore compact growth and rich coloration.
Othonna Ruby Necklace can occasionally encounter common succulent pests like mealybugs or spider mites. Inspect your plant regularly for signs of infestation, such as sticky residue or small insects. Pests can be managed by gently wiping them off with rubbing alcohol or by applying an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.