Senecio rowleyanus, commonly known as String of Pearls, is a distinctive and popular succulent vine admired for its unique appearance, featuring cascading stems adorned with bead-like leaves. This eye-catching plant is a favorite for hanging baskets and elevated displays, adding a touch of whimsical charm to indoor environments.
 
Key Features of Senecio rowleyanus (String of Pearls)
Trailing Stems: The most prominent feature is its long, slender, trailing stems that can grow several feet in length, creating a beautiful cascading effect.
Spherical Leaves: The leaves are modified into small, spherical, bead-like structures, typically green with translucent "windows" that allow light to penetrate for photosynthesis.
Succulent Nature: The spherical leaves are fleshy and store water, contributing to the plant's drought tolerance.
Small White Flowers: Mature plants can produce small, fuzzy, white flowers with prominent stamens that have a cinnamon-like fragrance. Flowering is not always frequent in cultivation.
Easy Propagation: Readily propagates from stem cuttings.
 
Care for Your Senecio rowleyanus (String of Pearls)
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some gentle morning sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch the delicate leaves. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and fewer "pearls."
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus and succulent mix is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the top inch or two of soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering is a significant risk for this succulent. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months. Ensure good drainage.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to average indoor humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving String of Pearls
Handling with Care: The stems and leaves can be somewhat fragile, so handle the plant gently.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot with good drainage. Be careful during repotting to avoid damaging the delicate stems.
Pruning: Pruning can be done to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth near the base, or propagate new plants.
Pest Control: Monitor for common houseplant pests such as mealybugs and spider mites. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Stem Cuttings: The easiest and most common method. Take stem cuttings a few inches long, ensuring they have a few "pearls." Allow the cut end to callus over for a few hours or a day. Plant the cut end directly into well-draining soil, or lay the cutting on top of the soil and lightly mist. Roots will typically form at the nodes (where the leaves attach).
Layering: Another simple method involves laying a portion of a stem directly onto the surface of well-draining soil in a separate pot, securing it lightly with a small weight or clip to ensure good contact. Once roots have formed along the buried stem, it can be severed from the mother plant.
 
Senecio rowleyanus, the String of Pearls, is a truly unique and visually appealing succulent vine that adds a touch of whimsy to any indoor space. Its cascading stems of bead-like leaves are relatively easy to care for, making it a popular choice for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.