cactus succulent

Ruby Necklace

Othonna capensis 'Ruby Necklace'

The Story

Plant Bio

Succulent ground cover that features cascading stems and small daisy-like flowers.

The unique ruby-red color of its stems adds vibrant interest, particularly in containers or hanging baskets.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesIts vibrant red stems and succulent form make Ruby Necklace a striking feature in xeriscapes and container gardens.
Practical UsesRequires minimal water and maintenance, ideal for drought-prone regions.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies in sunny gardens.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Cactus Succulent

Height

4 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage roots.
  3. Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry between watering.
  4. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced, diluted fertilizer.
  5. Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant and promote new growth.
  6. Transplant in early spring or fall to a sunny location with well-draining soil.

Pro Tip

Use sandy or rocky soil to mimic its native arid habitat for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide full sun for optimal flowering 🌞
  • Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot
  • Water only when soil is dry to avoid overwatering
  • Fertilize monthly during active growth
  • Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Do not plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
  • Refrain from excessive fertilizing, which can harm the plant
  • Do not expose to frost; bring indoors in cold climates

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Propagate
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Desert-themed rock gardenSunny window borderDrought-tolerant succulent arrangement

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ruby Necklace questions

What zones can Ruby Necklace grow in?

Ruby Necklace is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ruby Necklace deer resistant?

Yes — Ruby Necklace is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Ruby Necklace bloom?

Ruby Necklace typically blooms in year-round in warm climates through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Ruby Necklace need full sun?

Ruby Necklace does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Ruby Necklace drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Ruby Necklace handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Ruby Necklace with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.