Succulents are pretty little plants that are loved by many people. And, if you are one who is turning your succulent purple or you simply want to know what is causing that, this blog is right for you.
There are a few things that can turn your succulent leaves purple and some of these are simple fixes.
Keep reading this article to find out what is causing your succulent to turn purple and its fixes.
Why Are My Succulents Turning Purple?
If your succulents are turning purple, it could be due to excessive sunlight, temperature stress, overwatering, or nutrient deficiencies.
Too Much Sunlight
One possible reason is that they are receiving too much sunlight. While succulents generally require a lot of sunlight, excessive exposure to direct sunlight can cause them to develop a purple hue.
Try moving them to a location with partial shade and see if the color returns to normal.
Temperature Stress
Another reason for purple succulents could be temperature stress. Succulents are adapted to hot and arid environments, so extreme temperature fluctuations can cause them to change color.
If your succulents are exposed to cold temperatures or sudden changes in temperature, they may turn purple. Ensure that your succulents are kept in a consistent temperature range.
Overwatering
Additionally, overwatering can also lead to purple succulents. Succulents have adapted to survive in dry conditions and do not require frequent watering. If the soil is consistently wet or waterlogged, it can cause root rot and result in discoloration.
Make sure to water your succulents sparingly and allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Nutrient Deficiency
Lastly, nutrient deficiencies can also cause succulents to turn purple. Lack of essential minerals like phosphorus or magnesium can cause the leaves to change color.
Consider using a balanced fertilizer specifically designed for succulents to provide them with the necessary nutrients.
Pests and Diseases:
In some cases, an infestation of pests such as aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites can cause stress to your succulent, resulting in purple discoloration. Additionally, certain diseases like fungal infections can also lead to color changes.
To fix this issue, inspect your succulent regularly for signs of pests or diseases. If detected, treat the problem using appropriate insecticides or fungicides, following the instructions carefully.
Normal Color
It’s worth noting that some succulent varieties naturally exhibit purple or reddish hues without any health concerns.
These color variations can be a result of genetic factors or environmental conditions.
However, if your succulent’s purple discoloration is accompanied by wilting, stunted growth, or other signs of distress, it’s crucial to address the problem promptly.
Steps on How to Fix Succulent Turning Purple?
Now that we understand the reason behind the purple color, let’s explore the steps to fix a succulent turning purple:
Assess the Light Conditions:
Succulents require bright but indirect sunlight to thrive. If your succulent is turning purple, it may be receiving too much direct sunlight.
Move the plant to a location with filtered or indirect sunlight to provide relief from excessive light exposure.
Adjust the Temperature:
Extreme temperature fluctuations can stress out succulents, leading to discoloration.
Ensure that your succulent is not exposed to hot or cold drafts, especially during the winter months.
Keep the plant in a stable temperature range, preferably between 60-85°F (15-29°C).
Review Watering Practices:
Overwatering is a common mistake made when caring for succulents. They are adapted to survive in arid conditions and store water in their leaves and stems.
Excessive watering can lead to root rot and stress, causing the plant to turn purple.
To fix this issue, ensure that you’re watering your succulent sparingly and allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Examine Soil and Nutrient Levels:
Succulents require well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots. Regular potting soil can retain too much moisture, leading to stress and discoloration.
Consider using a well-draining soil mix specifically designed for succulents or add perlite to enhance drainage.
Additionally, check the nutritional status of your succulent. A lack of essential nutrients, particularly nitrogen, can cause discoloration. Use a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents to provide the necessary nutrients.
Patience and Observation:
Once you’ve implemented the necessary changes, give your succulent time to recover.
It may take a few weeks or even longer for the plant to revert to its normal green coloration. Observe any new growth for signs of improvement and continue to provide optimal care.
By following these steps and addressing the underlying causes of stress, you can successfully fix a succulent turning purple.
Remember that prevention is always better than cure, so providing your succulents with the right care from the start will help minimize the chances of encountering such issues.
With proper attention and patience, your succulent will regain its vibrant green color, thriving and adding beauty to your indoor or outdoor space.
Also, you can check similar Succulent problems:
- Succulent leaves Turning White
- Succulent leaves Turning Black
- Succulent leaves Turning Pink
- Succulent Leaves turning Red
- Succulent Turning Light Green
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my succulent turning purple?
Succulents may turn purple due to stress caused by overwatering, low temperatures, or lack of sunlight, which can trigger the production of anthocyanin pigments.
Why did my succulent turn from purple to green?
A change in environment, such as increased sunlight or warmer temperatures, can cause the production of less anthocyanin pigments, resulting in a change from purple to green.
Why are the tips of my cactus turning purple?
The tips of a cactus may turn purple due to sunburn or cold damage, which can cause the plant to produce anthocyanin pigments as a protective measure.
What is a succulent deficient in if it turns purple?
Succulents may turn purple if they are deficient in phosphorus, which is an essential nutrient for plant growth, or if the soil pH is too high (optimal is 6 to 7.5), which can affect the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients.