The Ruby Necklace Plant (Othonna capensis) is a succulent known for its unique appearance and trailing habit. Its slender, often purple or red stems bear bean-shaped green leaves that blush a vibrant ruby hue in optimal conditions. Its striking coloration and cheerful yellow daisy-like flowers make it popular for hanging baskets or as a groundcover outdoors. Its water-storing fleshy leaves make it an easy-care specimen, appealing to both experienced and new gardeners.
Ruby Necklace Plant Care
Caring for the Ruby Necklace Plant requires understanding its environmental preferences for vibrant foliage and robust growth. A proper balance of light, water, and soil is important for its health.
Light
The Ruby Necklace Plant thrives in bright, direct sunlight to develop its distinctive ruby-red coloration. Outdoors, full sun is beneficial, but partial shade during harsh afternoon hours prevents scorching. Indoors, a south-facing window with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal. Insufficient light keeps leaves green and causes leggy growth as stems stretch for light.
Watering
As a drought-tolerant succulent, Othonna capensis requires infrequent watering. The “soak and dry” method is recommended: water thoroughly until drainage, then allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering commonly leads to root rot; it’s safer to underwater. During its dormant period in winter, watering should be reduced significantly.
Soil
Well-draining soil is important to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended. For a DIY mix, combine two parts potting soil with one part perlite and one part sand for drainage. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
Temperature and Humidity
Warm temperatures, between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C), are preferred. It is not cold-tolerant; protect it from temperatures below 50°F (10°C) as frost causes damage. Outdoors, it suits USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11. It adapts well to average household humidity and needs no special adjustments.
Fertilizing
The Ruby Necklace Plant is not a heavy feeder, so frequent fertilization is unnecessary. If desired, apply a balanced liquid succulent fertilizer infrequently during the spring and summer growing season. Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid overfeeding and root burn. Avoid fertilization during the dormant period in fall and winter.
Propagating Ruby Necklace Plant
Propagating the Ruby Necklace Plant is straightforward via stem cuttings. This method expands your collection or allows sharing. Propagate during the active growing season.
Select a healthy stem and cut a 4-6 inch section, ensuring 2-3 nodes per cutting. Allow cuttings to callus for one to two days, forming a dry seal over the cut end to prevent rot. Once callused, plant cuttings in a well-draining succulent soil mix. Lay cuttings on top of the soil or insert the cut end about an inch deep. Keep soil lightly moist, not soggy, until roots establish in a few weeks.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Understanding common issues helps address problems and maintain plant health. Many issues relate to environmental conditions.
Lack of Color/Green Leaves
Green leaves, instead of ruby red, indicate insufficient light. Vibrant red or purple hues develop with bright, direct sunlight. Move the plant to a brighter location, like a south-facing window, or use a grow light to restore coloration.
Mushy Stems/Root Rot
Mushy stems and root rot signal overwatering or poor drainage. Its roots are susceptible to rot in consistently damp soil. To correct, immediately reduce watering and ensure the plant is in a pot with drainage holes and well-draining soil. If root rot is extensive, repot into fresh, dry succulent soil after trimming affected roots.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth (elongated stems with sparse leaves) results from inadequate light. The plant stretches for more intense light. Increase light intensity by moving the plant to a sunnier spot or using a grow light. Pruning leggy sections encourages bushier growth, and trimmed pieces can be used for propagation.
Pests
While pest-resistant, Ruby Necklace Plants can attract mealybugs or aphids. Regular inspection helps early detection. Small infestations can be managed by wiping pests with a damp cloth or rubbing alcohol-dipped cotton swab. For persistent issues, apply organic insecticidal soap or neem oil.