String of Pearls
Senecio rowleyanus
Striking trailing succulent with perfectly spherical bead-like leaves strung along thin stems. Each 'pearl' is a modified leaf that stores water. Produces small white brush-like flowers with a cinnamon scent in autumn.
Best rooms for string of pearls
Light requirements
Best near a window with filtered light — avoid harsh direct rays.
Thrives on a sunny windowsill with several hours of direct sunlight.
How to care for string of pearls
Bright light with some direct morning sun. Water sparingly — let the compost dry fully between waterings. The pearls will look slightly deflated when thirsty. Free-draining cactus compost. Good air circulation prevents rot. Feed monthly spring-summer. Minimum 10°C.
Watering
Let the compost dry out completely between waterings. Roughly every 2–4 weeks.
Propagation
- Lay stem cuttings on moist compost and pin down
Toxicity
Mildly toxic. Causes vomiting and diarrhoea if ingested by pets.
Common problems
- Shrivelling pearls from underwatering
- Mushy stems from overwatering
- Pearl drop from being moved
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