String of Ruby Necklace - Othonna capensis

​​Ruby Necklace, whose scientific name is Othonna capensis, is a trailing and fast-growing succulent plant.

Ruby necklace has a unique characteristic that sets it apart from other trailing succulents. True to its name, its bean-shaped leaves turn a bright ruby red when the plant is under stress. 

The plant is narrow and attractive due to its brightly colored stems and beautiful flowers. Its stems are thin and red or purple. The stems usually grow up to about 2 inches then start trailing downwards. One interesting thing about Ruby Necklace is that its flowers can appear all year round, which gives it that eye-catching look all the time.

Care Tips

Light: Ruby Necklace does best in desert and arid areas, but they usually avoid direct contact with the hot sun. Many Othonna species do much better when exposed to direct and hot rays of the sun.

Water: Like most succulents, these plants do not like to be overwatered, especially if placed in more shaded and cooler areas. They prefer for their soil to be well draining and for the soil to go completely dry between waterings.

Soil: Requires well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Commercially available cactus and succulent soil mixes can be used.

Potting: Can grow as a ground cover, in a dry border, container or scattered in with other succulents in a well-drained rock garden. But they do best in hanging baskets, and are also suited for green roofs. 

Temperature: It’s not a cold weather succulent and does best in warmer temperatures. It thrives between 50°F and 80°F. Never let your ruby necklace sit in temperatures below 50 °F (10 °C) for extended periods of time.

Humidity: When grown indoors, ruby necklace does well in typical household temperature and humidity levels. Avoid placing your plants next to cold or drafty windows during extreme winter temperatures.