Learn about the String of Rubies plant, an easy-to-care-for hanging succulent that adds beauty to any home. Find tips on growing, watering and propagating this unique plant.
Have you ever wanted a plant that looks like it’s covered in tiny red beads? Meet the String of Rubies, a beautiful hanging plant that can make your home look amazing. Let’s talk about this cool plant and how you can grow it yourself.
Here’s a detailed chart for String of Rubies (Othonna capensis):
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Othonna capensis |
| Common Name | String of Rubies |
| Plant Zone | 9-11 (often grown as a houseplant in cooler climates) |
| Sun Exposure | Bright, indirect light |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, succulent or cactus mix |
| Watering | Low; allow soil to dry out completely between waterings |
| Growth Habit | Trailing or cascading succulent |
| Height/Spread | 6-12 inches tall / 1-2 feet wide |
| Special Features | Unique ruby-red, cylindrical leaves, drought tolerant, ideal for hanging baskets |
What is a String of Rubies?
The String of Rubies, also known by its scientific name Othonna capensis, is a type of succulent plant. It has long, thin stems with small, round leaves that look like little red beads. That’s why people call it “String of Rubies” – the leaves really do look like rubies on a string!
This plant comes from South Africa, where it grows in dry, rocky areas. In homes, it’s often kept in hanging baskets because its long stems can grow up to 3 feet long.
Why Choose a String of Rubies?
There are many reasons to love this plant:
- It’s pretty: The red bead-like leaves make it stand out.
- It’s easy to care for: You don’t need to be a plant expert to keep it alive.
- It doesn’t need much water: Perfect if you sometimes forget to water your plants.
- It can grow indoors: You can enjoy it all year round, even in cold places.
How to Grow a String of Rubies
Growing this plant is not hard. Here’s what you need to know:
Light
String of Rubies likes bright light, but not direct sunlight all day. A spot near a window that gets some sun is perfect.
Soil
Use a soil mix made for succulents. You can find this at most garden stores.
Water
Don’t water it too much. Wait until the soil is dry before watering again. In winter, water even less.
Temperature
Keep it in a warm place, between 60-80°F (15-27°C). It doesn’t like cold weather.
Feeding
You can give it some plant food made for succulents about once a month during spring and summer.
Taking Care of Your String of Rubies
To keep your plant healthy:
- Check the soil before watering. If it’s still wet, wait a bit longer.
- Clean the leaves gently with a soft, damp cloth if they get dusty.
- If some stems get too long, you can trim them to keep the plant looking neat.
Growing More Plants
Want more String of Rubies plants? You can easily grow new ones from the plant you have. This is called propagation. Here’s how:
- Cut a healthy stem about 4-6 inches long.
- Let the cut end dry for a day or two.
- Plant the stem in some succulent soil.
- Water it lightly and wait. In a few weeks, it should start growing roots.
Solving Common Problems
Sometimes, you might notice:
- Leaves falling off: This often means the plant is getting too much water.
- Leaves turning brown: The plant might be getting too much sun.
- Not growing: It might need more light or plant food.
If you see these problems, adjust how you care for the plant and it should get better.
A String of Rubies can be a great addition to your home. It’s pretty, easy to care for, and can make any room look more interesting. With a little care, you can enjoy its unique beauty for many years. Why not give it a try and add some “rubies” to your home decor?
For more gardening tips and plant care guides, visit usagardenhub.com.
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