String of Pearls
Curio rowleyanus
The String of Pearls is a unique and captivating trailing succulent known for its foliage that resembles a cluster of green peas. Each leaf is a tiny, fleshy sphere with a small translucent 'window' that allows light to enter the interior of the leaf for photosynthesis. Native to South Africa, this plant is perfect for hanging baskets where its long, delicate stems can gracefully cascade downward.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Low
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
Low
Pet Warning
All parts of the plant are toxic to humans and pets. Ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Contact with the sap may also cause skin irritation.
Care Guide
Light Requirements: Position your plant in a spot that receives bright, filtered light.
While it loves sunshine, intense direct afternoon sun can scorch its delicate pearls. A south or west-facing window with a sheer curtain is ideal.
Watering Strategy: Follow the ‘soak and dry’ method.
Wait until the soil is completely dry before watering thoroughly. One key indicator that it needs water is when the pearls begin to lose their plumpness and look slightly shriveled.
Soil and Potting: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix.
Adding extra perlite or pumice will help prevent root rot. Ensure the pot has drainage holes; terracotta is a great choice as it allows moisture to evaporate.
Seasonal Care: During the winter, the plant enters a dormant phase.
Reduce watering significantly and stop fertilizing until spring.
Pruning: If the stems become too long or sparse, trim them back to encourage fuller growth at the crown.
The cuttings can be easily propagated.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid succulent fertilizer diluted to half-strength
Soil
Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with extra inorganic matter like perlite
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
Stems can trail up to 3 feet in length
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Stem cuttings laid on top of moist soil or water propagation
Common Varieties
Variegated String of Pearls (Curio rowleyanus f. variegatus)
This variety features trailing, pea-like spherical leaves characterized by a striking marbled pattern of creamy white and pale green.
String of Bananas
A delightful succulent characterized by its long, cascading stems adorned with small, emerald-green leaves that remarkably resemble miniature bananas. Native to South Africa, this trailing plant is a favorite for hanging baskets, creating a lush, curtain-like effect as it matures. It is closely related to the String of Pearls but is generally considered hardier and faster-growing.
String of Dolphins
The String of Dolphins is a whimsical trailing succulent hybrid prized for its unique foliage, where each fleshy leaf resembles a tiny, leaping dolphin. A cross between Curio rowleyanus (String of Pearls) and Curio articulatus (Hot Dog Cactus), this plant creates cascading stems that look stunning in hanging baskets. Under the right conditions, it may produce small, composite, white flowers that carry a subtle cinnamon scent.
String of Hearts
An elegant trailing semi-succulent characterized by its thin, purple-toned vines adorned with fleshy, heart-shaped leaves. Each leaf features a distinctive silver-marbled pattern on the top and a deep magenta underside. Native to South Africa, it is a resilient and fast-growing plant that produces unique, tube-like purple flowers resembling lanterns.
String of Nickels
The String of Nickels is a unique epiphytic succulent native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia and Australia. It is highly valued for its trailing vines lined with small, round, succulent leaves that resemble tiny green coins. In its natural habitat, it grows as an epiphyte, meaning it lives on trees and absorbs moisture and nutrients from the air and rain, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or terrariums.
String of Turtles
Peperomia prostrata, widely known as the String of Turtles, is a dainty, slow-growing succulent-like plant native to the rainforests of Brazil. It is highly sought after for its tiny, succulent, orbicular leaves that cascade beautifully from hanging pots. Each leaf features a mesmerizing pattern of white and silvery-green veins that mimic the shell of a turtle, turning a darker green and eventually reddish-brown as the plant matures. As an epiphyte, it naturally grows on trees and moss, making it a perfect candidate for terrariums or small shelf displays.
Variegated String of Hearts
The Variegated String of Hearts is a captivating trailing succulent characterized by its dainty, heart-shaped leaves that boast a palette of cream, silvery-green, and rosy pink. Often referred to as 'Rosary Vine', it produces slender, purple-toned stems that can trail elegantly for several feet. This variety is particularly prized for its blushing pink edges, which become more pronounced under bright, indirect light.