Othonna capensis Ruby Necklace - 15cm

Othonna capensis Ruby Necklace – A Play of Colors and Floral Splendor in One Plant
 

The Othonna capensis Ruby Necklace is an extraordinary trailing succulent that captivates with its year-round play of colors and contrasting blossoms. Its long, trailing tendrils in intense red and purple hues resemble a living string of gemstones. In spring and summer, small, radiant yellow flowers emerge, shining like tiny suns on the colorful shoots. This plant thus combines two eye-catching features: richly colored foliage and cheerful blossoms.

 

Origin and Botanical Background

The Othonna capensis originates from southern Africa, where it grows on rocky slopes and sunny locations. Botanically, it belongs to the Asteraceae family. Its ability to store water in its succulent leaves allows it to easily withstand dry periods. The special variety Ruby Necklace has become a true trend plant due to its intense shoot and leaf coloration.

 

Appearance

• Shoots: Slender and trailing, turning deep ruby red in bright sun, greener with less light.
• Leaves: Narrow, succulent, glossy, and variable in color – from fresh green to pink to dark purple.
• Flowers: From spring to summer, small, star-shaped flowers appear in bright yellow, standing like tiny highlights above the colorful foliage.
• Growth habit: Ideal for hanging baskets – the shoots can grow up to 50–60 cm long.

The interplay of red foliage and yellow flowers makes the plant an extraordinary ornamental piece.

 

Care Instructions

Location

A bright to full sun location ensures the most intense coloration. South or west-facing windows are ideal. In summer, the plant can be moved outdoors, protected from heavy rain showers.

Watering

The substrate should dry out thoroughly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging at all costs. During the dormant period in winter, very little water is sufficient – sometimes watering every few weeks is enough.

Substrate

Well-draining succulent soil is crucial. A mixture with sand, perlite, or lava gravel prevents waterlogging.

Temperature

The plant thrives at 18–25 °C in summer. In winter, it prefers a cool, frost-free environment at 10–12 °C.

Fertilization

During the growing season (spring to autumn), fertilize every three to four weeks with a succulent fertilizer. Do not fertilize in winter.

 

 

Propagation

Propagation is very easy via cuttings. Simply cut off a shoot, let it dry for a few days, and then place it in dry, mineral substrate. New plants can be created with little effort.

 

Applications

• Hanging baskets: Perfect for its long, purple tendrils.
• Floral accent: The yellow flowers in summer create bright contrasts.
• Combination: Together with green succulents or cacti, an exciting play of colors emerges.
• Indoors & Outdoors: Decorative in living spaces, a summer highlight on balconies and terraces.

 

Tips and Tricks

• Plenty of light ensures the most intense ruby color.
• Regular pruning of the shoots promotes dense, bushy growth.
• Repotting every 2–3 years keeps the plant vital.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why are the shoots of my Ruby Necklace greener than red?
The coloration depends heavily on light intensity – more sun leads to deeper ruby colors.

2. Does the plant bloom every year?
Yes, with good care, the yellow flowers reliably appear in spring and summer.

3. How long can the tendrils grow?
Up to 60 cm, depending on location and care.

4. Is the plant poisonous?
There are no indications of strong toxicity, but it should not be consumed.

5. Can I plant the plant outdoors in the garden?
Only in frost-free regions. In Central Europe, it is better to cultivate it as a potted or houseplant.

6. How fast does Othonna capensis Ruby Necklace grow?
It grows relatively quickly and can develop many new shoots within one season.

7. Do I need to prune the plant?
Pruning is not strictly necessary but promotes bushier growth.

8. How often should I water in summer?
Approximately every 7–10 days, depending on temperature and location – always water only when the substrate is dry.

9. Can the plant be placed in the bedroom?
Yes, as long as it receives sufficient light. It is easy to care for and does not require a special environment.

10. How old can the Ruby Necklace get?
With proper care, several years to decades. It remains long-lived and grows more attractive year after year.

 

Conclusion

The Othonna capensis Ruby Necklace is one of the most colorful and versatile succulents. Its long, ruby-red shoots combined with sunny yellow flowers make it an ideal eye-catcher in any hanging basket or on windowsills. Robust, easy to care for, and decorative – a plant that is a real enrichment for both beginners and experienced collectors.

 

Blog: You can find a detailed article on  Othanna capensis 'Ruby Necklace' here .