Ruby Riveter, a captivating succulent, enchants plant enthusiasts with its vibrant coloration and appealing rosette form. This plant, scientifically known as Sedeveria ‘Ruby Riveter’, is a popular choice for its unique aesthetic. Its compact growth habit and intense red and purple hues make it a standout.
Understanding Ruby Riveter
Ruby Riveter forms compact rosettes, typically 4 to 6 inches in diameter. Its leaves are thick and fleshy, arranged in a tight, symmetrical pattern. The vibrant coloration, ranging from ruby red to deep burgundy and purple, intensifies with bright sunlight and cooler temperatures.
This succulent is a hybrid of Sedum and Echeveria species. This parentage combines the hardiness of Sedum with the classic rosette shape and striking colors of Echeveria, making it a resilient and visually distinct plant.
Caring for Your Ruby Riveter
Light Requirements
Adequate light is important for Ruby Riveter to display its best color and maintain a compact shape. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight for at least five hours daily, which encourages its intense red and purple hues. Ideal conditions include a south or west-facing window indoors, or morning sun and afternoon shade outdoors. Insufficient light can lead to etiolation, causing the plant to stretch and lose color. Conversely, too much intense, direct afternoon sun can scorch leaves.
Watering Needs
Watering Ruby Riveter effectively involves the “soak and dry” method. This means thoroughly saturating the soil until water drains, then allowing it to dry completely before the next watering. Overwatering is a common pitfall leading to root rot. To check dryness, use a moisture meter, insert a wooden stick, or feel the top few inches of soil. Watering frequency varies with environmental factors; indoor succulents typically need watering every 14-21 days. Adjust frequency seasonally, increasing it in warmer months and reducing it in cooler, dormant periods.
Soil and Potting
Selecting the appropriate soil mix and pot is important for Ruby Riveter. A well-draining, gritty soil mix designed for succulents or cacti is essential to prevent water retention. This can be achieved with a commercial succulent mix or by amending regular potting soil with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. Pots with drainage holes are essential to allow excess water to escape, preventing root rot. Terracotta or ceramic pots are preferred for their porous nature, which allows better airflow and absorbs excess moisture. Repotting is generally needed every two to three years, or when the soil needs refreshing. When repotting, disturb roots minimally.
Temperature and Humidity
Ruby Riveter thrives within 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 29°C). It is not frost-tolerant and requires protection below 25°F (-4°C). Maintaining a stable environment promotes healthy growth and vibrant coloration. Humidity requirements are low, as these plants are adapted to arid environments and do not thrive in high humidity. Excessive humidity can lead to fungal diseases or mushy leaves.
Fertilizing
Ruby Riveter is not a heavy feeder and benefits from minimal fertilization. Over-fertilization can lead to rapid, weak growth or root burn. If desired, fertilize sparingly during the active growing season in spring and summer. A balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK ratio), diluted to half or quarter strength, is suitable. Apply to moist soil around the base, avoiding direct contact with leaves. Fertilizing once every month or two during the growing season is usually sufficient; avoid it entirely during dormancy in fall and winter.
Propagating Ruby Riveter
Propagating Ruby Riveter is effective through leaf or stem cuttings. For leaf cuttings, carefully twist a healthy, plump leaf from the stem, ensuring the entire base is intact. After taking cuttings, allow the cut end to “callus” or dry for a few days to a week. This forms a protective scab, preventing rot when planted. Once callused, place cuttings on top of or lightly insert them into a well-draining succulent soil mix. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots form, which can take several weeks.
Common Issues and Solutions
Ruby Riveter can encounter several common issues, often related to improper care. Root rot, indicated by mushy or blackened stems and leaves, results from overwatering or poorly draining soil. If detected early, remove affected parts and repot into fresh, dry, well-draining soil. Etiolation, where the plant stretches and becomes pale, signifies insufficient light. Remedy this by gradually moving the plant to a brighter location. Pests like mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses. Treat them by dabbing with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or using insecticidal soap. Loss of vibrant red or purple coloration often indicates a lack of adequate sunlight or cooler temperatures; adjusting environmental conditions can restore the plant’s hues.