Understanding the Colour Dynamics of Succulents

11 March 202411 March 2024 Writer

If you’ve ever nurtured a succulent or two, it’s likely you’ve observed a gradual transformation in their hues. This colour variation is a common occurrence amongst succulents and doesn’t necessarily signify ill health. In fact, throughout their lifespan, succulents can undergo multiple colour changes influenced by their surroundings. This change can be naturally occurring or induced by creating an environment conducive to colour transformation.

Understanding the underlying science behind succulents’ colour shifts can be intriguing, whether you’re curious about your own plants’ recent colour changes or wish to experiment with inducing these changes yourself. This article aims to shed light on the mechanisms and reasons behind the colour alterations in succulents, offering insight into these fascinating plants.

The journey of a succulent’s colour transformation is a remarkable process, rooted in science and influenced by its surroundings. Whether you’re witnessing your own succulent’s colour evolution or aiming to experiment with inducing such changes, a deep dive into the reasons and mechanisms behind these shifts can be quite enlightening.

What Triggers Colour Changes in Succulents?

Despite their easy-care reputation, succulents are exquisitely sensitive to their environment, with their colouration being a direct response to specific factors:

Sunlight Exposure
Watering Practices
Ambient Temperature

Each of these elements plays a pivotal role in the succulent’s colour adaptation process, offering you the tools to influence their appearance actively.

Sunlight Exposure: A Catalyst for Colour

Bright, sunny conditions are the ideal for succulents, but the degree of sunlight exposure can dramatically alter their colour. This “light stress” can shift a succulent from its usual green to vibrant reds or deep purples, depending on the intensity and duration of sunlight exposure.

The Impact of Watering on Succulent Colours

Watering frequency and method significantly affect succulent colouration. Periods of drought stress can lead to a burst of colour as the plant conserves resources, while regular watering maintains a more consistent green hue.

Temperature Influence on Succulent Hues

Temperature fluctuations serve as another critical factor in determining succulent colour. Cooler temperatures can prompt succulents to display a range of stress-induced colours, adding a unique character to your collection.

The Concept of “Stress” in Colour Transformation

The idea of deliberately stressing succulents to alter their colour might seem counterintuitive. However, in this context, “stress” refers to conditions under which succulents adapt to environmental challenges. Moderately exposing them to light, drought, or temperature variations can beneficially influence colour variation without harming the plants.

Internal Mechanisms of Colour Change

Understanding the external factors influencing succulent colouration leads us to the internal chemical processes responsible for these changes.

Pigment Adjustment

The specific colour of a succulent is determined by the pigments it produces, which vary based on the plant’s environmental needs.

Chlorophyll: In low-light conditions, succulents ramp up chlorophyll production, leading to a greener appearance. This pigment is crucial for photosynthesis, allowing plants to capture more sunlight.
Carotenoids & Anthocyanins: Stressful conditions prompt succulents to produce more carotenoids (yielding orange or yellow hues) or anthocyanins (resulting in red or purple colours). These pigments protect the plants from excessive ultraviolet exposure and cold temperatures.