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Ruby Necklace Plant Size:
Get the Right Size for You

Updated: July 18, 2023

The Ruby Necklace plant, also known as Othonna capensis or String of Rubies, is a beautiful trailing succulent that has gained popularity among plant enthusiasts. Its unique appearance and low maintenance needs make it an ideal addition to any indoor or outdoor space. However, before bringing this plant home, it’s important to consider its size and how it will fit into your chosen location.

Understanding the Growth Habit of Ruby Necklace Plants

Ruby Necklace plants are native to South Africa and are known for their delicate, cascading stems adorned with small, bead-like leaves that resemble rubies. This trailing succulent can grow up to 24 inches (61 cm) in length, making it an eye-catching addition to any hanging basket or shelf display.

The growth habit of the Ruby Necklace plant is prostrate, meaning it spreads horizontally along the ground or drapes downwards when placed in a hanging container. The stems of this plant are thin and fragile, but they easily branch out and produce new growth nodes when given adequate care.

Choosing the Right Size for Your Space

When selecting a Ruby Necklace plant, it’s crucial to consider the available space in your home or garden. This will help determine the appropriate size of the plant you should look for. Here are some factors to consider:

Indoor Spaces

If you plan to keep your Ruby Necklace plant indoors, you’ll need to evaluate the available space carefully. Consider the height of the ceilings and the amount of natural light the area receives. Ruby Necklace plants can thrive in bright indirect light or partial shade, so choose a spot near a window that provides filtered sunlight.

For small apartments or rooms with limited floor space, a smaller-sized Ruby Necklace plant would be more suitable. Look for young plants or cuttings that are around 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in length. These can be potted in small containers or hanging baskets, allowing them to cascade downwards without taking up too much space.

If you have larger indoor spaces or prefer a more dramatic effect, you can opt for a more mature Ruby Necklace plant. These can be up to 24 inches (61 cm) long and will create a stunning display when placed in a hanging planter, allowing the trailing stems to drape down elegantly.

Outdoor Gardens

Ruby Necklace plants can also be grown outdoors in suitable climates. When planning to incorporate them into your garden, consider the available space and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.

For small gardens or balconies with limited ground space, using hanging baskets or wall-mounted containers is an excellent option. Select smaller-sized Ruby Necklace plants that are around 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) long to fit these containers. This way, you can enjoy the beauty of the trailing stems without worrying about overcrowding.

If you have larger outdoor spaces, such as sprawling gardens or patio areas, you can opt for larger Ruby Necklace plants. These plants can be planted directly into the ground or incorporated into larger containers. Their cascading growth habit will add a touch of elegance and greenery to any outdoor setting.

Consider Growth Potential

When it comes to the size of a Ruby Necklace plant, it’s essential to consider its growth potential. While young plants may be small at first, they have the ability to grow quickly under optimal conditions. As they mature, their trailing stems will continue to lengthen and branch out.

To ensure your Ruby Necklace plant doesn’t outgrow its designated space too quickly, regular pruning and maintenance are necessary. Trimming back the stems periodically will help maintain its desired size and shape while encouraging bushier growth.

If you prefer a more compact plant or want to control its growth, you can also choose to grow your Ruby Necklace plant in a smaller container. This will restrict its root growth and keep the overall size of the plant in check.

Conclusion

Choosing the right size of Ruby Necklace plant is crucial to ensure it fits well in your chosen location and complements your living space or garden. Consider the available space, whether indoor or outdoor, and evaluate the potential growth of the plant. By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty of this unique trailing succulent while keeping it at the right size for you.