Succulent Turns Purple: A Comprehensive Guide

If you're a plant enthusiast, it's no secret that succulents are some of the most popular plants to have around. They require minimal care and attention, which makes them ideal for busy people. However, what happens when your beloved succulent s turning purple? Is it a sign of poor health or something else entirely? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything related to "Succulent Turns Purple."

Succulents are known for their fleshy leaves and water-storing abilities, making them great indoor or outdoor plants. They come in various shapes, colors, and sizes, making them perfect for any decor style. When a succulent turns purple, it can be an indication of several things, including stress, environmental factors, or natural pigmentation.

In this guide, we will take a closer look at why succulent turns purple, how to prevent it, and what to do if it happens. We'll also explore some common types of purple succulents and give you tips on how to care for them properly.

Reasons For Succulent Turning Purple

Environmental Stress

Environmental stress is one of the most common reasons why succulent turns purple. These plants can turn purple due to the change in temperature, light, or humidity levels. For instance, if you move your succulent from a shaded area to a spot with direct sunlight, it can lead to the leaves turning purple due to sunburn. Similarly, extreme cold or hot temperatures can cause discoloration or purpling of the leaves.

Overwatering

Overwatering is another common reason why succulent turns purple. Succulents store water in their leaves, and if they receive more than they need, it can lead to root rot, causing the plant to wilt, turn brown, and eventually die. If you notice that your succulent's leaves are turning purple and mushy, it's a sign of overwatering.

Natural Pigmentation

Some succulents are naturally purple due to their pigmentation. For instance, Echeveria 'Black Prince' is an excellent example of a purple succulent with dark leaves. These plants do not require any special care or attention and will maintain their purple color as long as they receive adequate sunlight and water.

How To Prevent Succulent Turning Purple

Provide Adequate Lighting

Succulents need plenty of light to thrive, but too much direct sunlight can cause them stress and turn their leaves purple. Place them in a spot where they receive at least six hours of indirect sunlight every day. If you live in an area with hot summers, it's best to keep them in a shaded area during the hottest part of the day.

Water Sparingly

As mentioned earlier, overwatering is one of the most common reasons why succulent turns purple. Make sure you only water your succulent when the soil is completely dry. Avoid using a spray bottle to mist the leaves, as this can lead to fungal growth and rot.

Use Well-Draining Soil

Succulents require well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Make sure you use a cactus or succulent-specific soil mix when potting your plant. You can also add perlite or sand to improve drainage.

Keep Them Pest-Free

Pests can also cause stress to your succulent, leading to purpling of the leaves. Keep an eye out for pests like mealybugs, spider mites, or scale insects. Wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth or neem oil to get rid of them.

Types Of Purple Succulents

Echeveria 'Black Prince'

Echeveria 'Black Prince' is a popular purple succulent with dark, almost black leaves. It requires plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil to thrive. Water sparingly and avoid getting water on the leaves.

Graptopetalum amethystinum

Graptopetalum amethystinum, also known as Lavender Pebbles, is a unique purple succulent that forms rosettes of fleshy leaves. It requires bright light and well-draining soil and can be propagated easily from leaf cuttings.

Sedum 'Purple Emperor'

Sedum 'Purple Emperor' is a low-growing purple succulent that is perfect for ground cover. It has deep purple foliage and thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Water sparingly.

In conclusion, succulent turning purple can be an indication of several things, including stress, environmental factors, or natural pigmentation. By providing adequate lighting, watering sparingly, using well-draining soil, and keeping them pest-free, you can prevent your succulents from turning purple. Additionally, there are several types of purple succulents that you can add to your collection, such as Echeveria 'Black Prince,' Graptopetalum amethystinum, and Sedum 'Purple Emperor.'

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Why is my succulent turning purple?

There are several reasons why your succulent may be turning purple, including environmental stress, overwatering, or natural pigmentation.

Q2. Can a purple succulent turn green?

Yes, it's possible for a purple succulent to turn green. This can happen if the plant receives less sunlight than it needs or if it's not getting enough nutrients.

Q3. How often should I water my purple succulent?

You should only water your purple succulent when the soil is completely dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.

Q4. How much light does a purple succulent need?

Most purple succulents require at least six hours of indirect sunlight every day. However, it's best to check the specific requirements of your plant to ensure it receives adequate lighting.

Q5. Can I plant my purple succulent in regular soil?

No, you should use a cactus or succulent-specific soil mix when potting your purple succulent. These plants require well-draining soil to prevent root rot.

Q6. Why are my succulent leaves turning purple and mushy?

If your succulent leaves are turning purple and mushy, it's a sign of overwatering. Succulents store water in their leaves, and if they receive more than they need, it can cause root rot and other issues.

Q7. How do I get rid of pests on my purple succulent?

You can get rid of pests like mealybugs, spider mites, or scale insects by wiping down the leaves with a damp cloth or neem oil. You may also need to apply a pesticide if the infestation is severe.

Q8. Can I propagate my purple succulent?

Yes, most purple succulents can be propagated from leaf cuttings. Make sure you use a sharp, clean pair of scissors and allow the cutting to callus over before planting.

Q9. How big do purple succulents grow?

The size of a purple succulent depends on the species and variety. Some can grow as small as a few inches, while others can reach several feet in height.

Q10. Do purple succulents bloom?

Yes, some purple succulents do bloom. However, the frequency and timing of the blooms depend on the species and variety.