Why Is My Green Succulent Turning Purple?

Understanding The Colourful Transformation Of A Green Succulent

Have you ever gazed at your once vibrant green succulent only to notice it’s taking on a mysterious purple hue? As a long time succulent enthusiast, I remember the first time I witnessed this transformation in my own collection. That initial moment of panic “Is my plant dying?” quickly turned into fascination when I discovered the truth behind this colourful change.

Succulents are nature’s chameleons, and that purple tint isn’t necessarily a warning sign. In fact, it might be your plant’s way of showing off! Let’s explore why your green succulent is turning purple and what it means for your plant’s health.

A green and purple succulent in a blue clay pot

The Science Behind Succulent Colour Changes

Natural Stress Responses in Succulents

Succulents are masters of adaptation. Unlike many houseplants that wilt at the first sign of stress, succulents respond to environmental changes by altering their appearance often in spectacular ways. The purple colouration you’re seeing is typically caused by compounds called anthocyanins, which act as the plant’s natural sunscreen.

When a succulent produces these purple, red, or blue pigments, it’s usually responding to some form of environmental stress. But don’t worry, “stress” in the plant world doesn’t always equate to harm. Think of it as your succulent’s way of adjusting to its surroundings.

Succulents in a variety of colour in an Australian garden

Sun Stress: The Most Common Reason

The number one reason your green succulent is turning purple is likely sun exposure. Just like humans get a tan to protect our skin, succulents produce anthocyanins to shield their tissues from intense light.

“A succulent’s purple colouration is often its natural sunscreen beautiful adaptation rather than a cause for alarm.”

If your formerly green plant was recently moved to a sunnier location, this is almost certainly the cause. Some species, like Echeveria, Sedum, and Sempervivum, are particularly known for their dramatic colour transformations in response to sun.

While some sun stress is normal and even desirable for bringing out vibrant colours, too much intense sunlight can be harmful. Signs your succulent is getting too much sun include:

• Bleached or whitened patches
• Brown, crispy leaf tips
• Wrinkled or shrivelled appearance despite watering

If you’re creating a low maintenance garden , finding the right light balance for your succulents is essential. Most colourful varieties need bright light to maintain their vibrancy without suffering from sunburn.

A purple succulent sitting on a window ledge in sunlight

Temperature’s Role in Purple Transformation

As temperatures drop, particularly during fall and winter, many succulents respond by producing anthocyanins. This is why the same plant might be green in summer but develop purple, red, or burgundy tints as the weather cools.

This temperature response is particularly common in:

• Aloe varieties
• Crassula ovata (Jade plants)
• Many Sedum species
• Sempervivum (Hens and Chicks)

The purple colouration serves multiple purposes during colder weather:

• Acts as antifreeze to protect cellular structures
• Helps the plant absorb more warmth from sunlight
• Slows down metabolism to conserve energy

For those interested in vertical gardens for small spaces , understanding how temperature affects succulent colouration can help you create dynamic displays that change with the seasons.

Drought Stress and Watering Practices

Succulents are desert plants adapted to survive with minimal water. When they experience drought conditions, many species respond by producing more anthocyanins and carotenoids, which can turn leaves purple or reddish.

If your succulent has been underwatered and is turning purple, you might notice:

• The colour change starts at the leaf tips
• Leaves feel thinner or less plump
• The plant may have a slightly shrivelled appearance

While succulents are drought tolerant, extended periods without water can eventually harm them. Finding the right watering balance is key to maintaining healthy plants.

A good rule of thumb: water thoroughly but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. This approach aligns perfectly with the principles of creating top garden layouts for urban homes where water efficiency is often a priority.

Nutrient Factors Affecting Succulent Color

Nutrient availability plays a significant role in succulent colouration. Phosphorus, in particular, has a strong influence on purple pigmentation.

Phosphorus Deficiency

When succulents lack sufficient phosphorus, they often develop purple or reddish hues, particularly on the undersides of leaves. This is different from sun induced colour changes, which typically appear on the tops of leaves or at the tips.

Signs of phosphorus deficiency include:

• Purple colouration primarily on lower leaves
• Stunted growth
• Darker green leaves before turning purple

Other Nutrient Considerations

Nitrogen levels also affect colouration. High nitrogen can promote lush green growth, sometimes at the expense of the vibrant colours many succulent lovers desire. This is why some growers intentionally limit fertilizer to encourage more dramatic colouration.

A green succulent in a terracotta pot turning purple on the edges

Is Purple Coloration Normal for Your Succulent Species?

Before becoming concerned about colour changes, it’s important to research your specific succulent variety. Many species naturally develop purple colouration as they mature or during certain seasons.

Some naturally purple tinted succulents include:

• Echeveria ‘Perle von Nürnberg’
• Sempervivum ‘Purple Beauty’
• Sedum ‘Purple Emperor’
• Graptopetalum paraguayense (Ghost Plant)
• Certain Kalanchoe varieties

If you’re planning to incorporate succulents into a bohemian gallery wall or other decorative display, choosing varieties known for their colour changing properties can add an element of living art to your space.

When to Be Concerned About Purple Colouration

While purple colouration is usually harmless or even desirable, there are situations where it might signal a problem:

1. Sudden colour change accompanied by wilting This could indicate root rot or other serious issues
2. Purple spots rather than overall colouration May signal pest damage or fungal infection
3. Purple colouration along with soft, mushy leaves Often indicates overwatering and potential rot
4. Very dark purple/black colouration Could be severe sun damage or frost damage

How to Respond to Your Succulent’s Colour Change

If You Love the Purple Colour

If you’re enjoying your succulent’s new purple hues, here’s how to maintain them:

• Provide plenty of bright, indirect light
• Allow for slight drought between waterings
• Expose to cooler temperatures when possible (without risking frost damage)
• Use a low nitrogen fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents

If You Prefer the Original Green

If you’d rather return your succulent to its greener state:

1. Gradually move it to a location with less direct sunlight
2. Ensure consistent watering (while still avoiding overwatering)
3. Maintain warm, stable temperatures
4. Consider a balanced fertilizer with adequate phosphorus

For those working with limited space, implementing these care adjustments can be part of a broader strategy for organizing small spaces efficiently while maintaining plant health.

Embracing the Beauty of Stress Coloration

Many succulent enthusiasts intentionally “stress” their plants to bring out vibrant colours. This practice, when done carefully, doesn’t harm the plant but enhances its ornamental value.

Popular stress techniques include:

• Strategic sun exposure
• Controlled drought periods
• Temperature fluctuations between day and night

Remember that while stress colouration is beautiful, extreme stress can harm your plants. The goal is to find the sweet spot where your succulents display vivid colours while remaining healthy.

A collection of succulents in varying colours in a garden

A green and purple succulent in a blue clay pot

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