Ruby necklace care guide
Othonna capensis
Also known as: Little pickles, Othonna capensis
Pets and children
Caution advised
Reliable data is limited, but its close relative string of pearls is toxic, and eating it may cause vomiting or diarrhea; hang the trailing stems out of reach and consult a veterinarian or doctor if swallowed.
How often to water Ruby necklace
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 14 days
- A spring-and-fall grower: in spring, water well a few days after the soil dries; in summer it slows, so about every two to three weeks in the evening, as a guide.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- It grows strongly and bears yellow flowers as it cools: water well whenever the soil dries, as a guide.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 14 days
- Still growing but slow to dry, so water about one to two weeks after the soil dries, as a guide.
Light and placement for Ruby necklace
A sunny, airy spot as a guide: good sun turns the stems and leaves ruby-purple and keeps growth compact in spring and fall, while midsummer wants bright partial shade and a bright window suits it indoors.
Overwintering Ruby necklace
Overwintering guide: 0°C (32°F) or above
Fairly hardy: kept dry it generally takes about 0°C, and on the Kanto and Kansai plains it can winter under the eaves, though as a guide keep it from frost and bring it in on freezing nights.
Fertilizing and repotting Ruby necklace
Fertilizer
Very little: diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month in spring and fall, none in summer or winter, as extra feed stretches the stems and fades the color.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Ruby necklace
- In hot, humid summer weather it rots back from the stem bases.
- Without enough sun the leaves stay green and the stems stretch.
- Frozen while wet in winter, it turns to mush.
Tips for growing Ruby necklace
- Overlong stems can be cut and stuck in soil, where they root easily.
- Full sun in fall deepens the purple and brings small yellow daisies.
- Hanging pots dry fast, so watch for wrinkling leaves as the watering cue.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
