String of Rubies Plant Care Guide

The String of Rubies (Othonna capensis), also known as Ruby Necklace, is a stunning trailing succulent with purple-hued stems and elongated, bean-like leaves.

🌟 Quick Look

• 🌞 Lighting Needs: Full sun to bright indirect light
• 💧 Watering Needs: Water sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between waterings
• 📏 Mature Size: Trails up to 2-3 feet long
• 🌱 How to Propagate: Stem cuttings in soil or water
• 🚫 Toxic/Non-toxic: Non-toxic to pets and humans
• 🌸 Flowering: Small yellow daisy-like flowers

🏡 String of Rubies Care

This easy-care plant thrives in bright light and is perfect for hanging baskets or trailing over shelves.

With proper care, it produces small, yellow daisy-like flowers, adding even more charm to its unique look!

🌞 Lighting Needs

• Prefers full sun to bright, indirect light.
• If grown indoors, place near a south- or west-facing window for maximum light.
• If the plant starts turning green, it needs more sunlight!

💡 Tip: If you can’t provide enough natural sunlight indoors, consider using a grow light to maintain the plant’s vibrant purple color.

💧 Watering Needs

• Water only when the soil is completely dry (typically every 2-3 weeks in warm months, less in winter).
• Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
• Use the soak and dry method—water thoroughly, then allow excess water to drain out.

🚫 Do not mist—String of Rubies prefers dry conditions!

💡 Tip: If the leaves appear shriveled, it’s a sign your plant needs water. If they become soft and mushy, you may be overwatering.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Prefers temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C).
• Keep above 50°F (10°C)—bring indoors during cold months.
• Thrives in low humidity and does not require misting.

🪴 Soil & Potting

• Use a well-draining, acidic soil mix, such as:
  • Cactus/succulent mix or
  • A blend of potting soil + perlite/sand for better drainage.
• Always use a pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot.

💡 Tip: Terracotta pots are a great choice as they wick away excess moisture.

🌿 Fertilization

• Fertilize once a month in spring and summer with a succulent fertilizer diluted to half strength.
• Do not fertilize in fall and winter, when growth slows.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Trim leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
• Remove any dead or yellow leaves to keep the plant healthy.
• Be gentle when handling, as the leaves are delicate and may fall off easily.

🌱 Propagation

String of Rubies is easy to propagate through stem cuttings.

How to propagate:

1. Cut a 3-5 inch healthy stem with several leaves.
2. Let the cutting dry for a day to prevent rot.
3. Plant the cutting in dry succulent soil, pressing the stem lightly into the mix.
4. Wait a few days before watering, then mist lightly to encourage root growth.
5. Roots should develop in 2-3 weeks!

💡 Tip: You can also propagate in water, but soil propagation is usually more successful for succulents.

🚫 Is String of Rubies Toxic?

No! This plant is non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a great choice for households with animals.

🛠 Troubleshooting & Common Problems

🍃 Why is my String of Rubies turning green?

• Cause: Not enough light.
• Solution: Move to a brighter spot with more direct sunlight.

🏜️ Why are the leaves shriveling?

• Cause: Underwatering.
• Solution: Give the plant a deep soak, ensuring excess water drains out.

🌊 Why are the leaves soft or mushy?

• Cause: Overwatering.
• Solution: Allow the soil to dry completely before watering again.

🐛 Pests (Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider Mites)

• Solution: Wipe leaves with neem oil or treat with insecticidal soap.

🌿 Final Thoughts

The String of Rubies is a gorgeous, low-maintenance trailing succulent that thrives with plenty of light and infrequent watering. Its purple hues and delicate trailing stems make it a stunning addition to any home.

Remember: Provide bright light, let the soil dry completely between waterings, and handle gently to keep your plant thriving!