If you’re a fan of unique and charming succulents, the Jelly Bean succulent (also known as Sedum rubrotinctum) is sure to capture your attention. This vibrant and easy-to-grow plant has become a popular choice among gardeners and collectors alike. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about growing and caring for Jelly Bean succulents, from their appearance and varieties to planting techniques and fun facts.
Introduction to Jelly Bean Succulent
Jelly Bean succulents, scientifically known as Sedum rubrotinctum, are part of the Crassulaceae family. Native to Mexico, these plants have become a beloved addition to gardens and indoor plant collections around the world due to their vibrant colors, easy care, and distinctive appearance. They are also known by other names, such as “Pork and Beans” or “Bacon and Eggs” due to their plump, colorful leaves that resemble jelly beans.
Appearance of Jelly Bean Succulent
The Jelly Bean succulent stands out for its unique, fleshy, and oblong-shaped leaves that come in a stunning array of colors. The leaves are typically green, but they can develop shades of yellow, red, or even purple when exposed to the sun. This beautiful color transformation is one of the reasons why gardeners love this plant so much.
The plant itself forms a bushy, compact shape and grows to about 6-12 inches in height, making it an excellent choice for both small and large spaces. Jelly Bean succulents can also spread out, forming dense clusters of plump leaves that create a lovely cascading effect.
Varieties of Jelly Bean Succulent
While Sedum rubrotinctum is the most commonly known Jelly Bean succulent, there are several varieties that you can explore. Each variety may have slight differences in appearance or care needs, but they all share the same general characteristics of being hardy, low-maintenance plants.
‘Aurora’: Known for its silvery-gray leaves that take on a more subtle pinkish hue when exposed to full sun.
‘Giant Jelly Bean’: This variety has larger leaves and can grow taller, making it a striking addition to any succulent garden.
‘Variegatum’: This variety features leaves with a creamy, pale green hue mixed with white or yellow margins, making it a visually interesting option.
These varieties share similar care needs, so once you’ve mastered the basics of Jelly Bean succulent care, you’ll find that they all thrive in similar conditions.
How To Grow Jelly Bean Succulent?
Choosing the Right Location
Jelly Bean succulents are sun-loving plants that thrive in bright, indirect light. If growing them indoors, place them near a window that receives plenty of light. Outdoors, they prefer full sunlight but can tolerate some partial shade, especially in hot climates.
For the best growth, ensure that the location you choose has well-draining soil. Poor drainage can lead to root rot, which is detrimental to succulents. If planting them in containers, make sure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent water from accumulating.
Soil Requirements
Succulents, including Jelly Bean plants, require well-draining soil to thrive. A standard cactus or succulent mix works well, but you can also improve the drainage by adding sand or perlite to your potting mix. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral in pH, with a loose, airy texture that allows water to flow through quickly.
Planting Process
To plant your Jelly Bean succulent, follow these simple steps:
Prepare the Pot: Choose a pot with a drainage hole, and fill it with a well-draining succulent mix.
Prepare the Plant: If you’re transplanting your Jelly Bean from another pot, gently remove it from its container, being careful not to damage the roots.
Planting: Dig a small hole in the soil and place the succulent in it, making sure the roots are spread out. Fill in the soil around the plant and press it gently to eliminate air pockets.
Watering: Water the plant lightly after planting, but be careful not to overwater, as succulents are prone to root rot if kept too wet.
Container Gardening
Jelly Bean succulents are well-suited for container gardening. They do well in small pots or hanging planters, allowing their trailing vines and vibrant colors to spill over the sides. Ensure that the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth but not too large, as succulents prefer to be a bit snug in their pots.
Growing and Care Tips
Watering
One of the main factors to keep in mind when caring for Jelly Bean succulents is their watering needs. These plants are drought-tolerant and prefer to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to let the soil dry out before watering again.
Water your Jelly Bean succulent thoroughly, but allow any excess water to drain from the pot. During the warmer months, you may need to water once every 7-10 days. In the winter, reduce watering to once every 2-3 weeks, as the plant enters a dormancy period.
Temperature and Humidity
Jelly Bean succulents prefer warm temperatures and thrive in environments ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). They are not frost-tolerant, so if you live in a region with cold winters, it’s best to grow them indoors or bring them inside when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
These plants also prefer low humidity levels, so they are ideal for dry climates. If you’re growing them indoors, avoid placing them in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
Fertilizing
While Jelly Bean succulents don’t require frequent fertilization, occasional feeding can promote healthy growth. Use a balanced, diluted fertilizer designed for succulents and cacti. Fertilize once in early spring and again in mid-summer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning and Propagation
Jelly Bean succulents are relatively low-maintenance in terms of pruning. However, if the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, you can prune it back by cutting the stems with a clean, sharp knife. This will encourage the plant to grow more compact and fuller.
Propagation is easy with Jelly Bean succulents. Simply take a cutting from the plant, allowing the cut end to callous over for a few days. Then, place the cutting in well-draining soil, where it will root and grow into a new plant. You can also propagate by separating the offsets, or “babies,” that grow at the base of the parent plant.
Planting Cycles and Growth Patterns
Jelly Bean succulents are perennial plants, meaning they grow year-round in suitable climates. However, their growth tends to slow down in the cooler months, making them ideal for low-maintenance care during the fall and winter.
During the warmer months, the plant will experience active growth, producing new leaves and stems. It’s the best time for propagation and pruning, as the plant is in its full growing phase. Keep an eye on the color of the leaves as the plant matures; they may change from green to red or purple depending on the light conditions.
Functions and Benefits of Jelly Bean Succulent
While Jelly Bean succulents are primarily grown for their beauty and unique appearance, they offer some additional benefits:
Air Purification: Like many succulents, Jelly Beans help purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making them a great addition to indoor spaces.
Low Maintenance: These succulents are ideal for busy gardeners or beginners due to their minimal water and care requirements.
Aesthetic Appeal: Their colorful, plump leaves add a unique, playful touch to gardens, terrariums, and containers, brightening up any space with little effort.
Fun Facts about Jelly Bean Succulent
Colorful Transformation: Jelly Bean succulents are known for their ability to change color depending on environmental conditions. Exposure to more sunlight can result in stunning shades of red, orange, or purple.
Non-Toxic to Pets: Unlike many other houseplants, Jelly Bean succulents are non-toxic to cats and dogs, making them a safe choice for pet owners.
Superb for Drought-Tolerant Gardens: These succulents are perfect for xeriscaping, which is the practice of designing a garden to minimize water use.
Conclusion
Growing a Jelly Bean succulent is a rewarding experience for gardeners of all levels. Their vibrant colors, low-maintenance care, and unique appearance make them an excellent addition to any plant collection. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to cultivate a healthy, thriving Jelly Bean succulent that will bring joy and beauty to your space. Whether you’re planting it in a pot, a garden bed, or as part of a succulent arrangement, this plant will surely make a lasting impression.
Happy gardening!
