Senecio - String of Tears

Senecio herreianus, commonly known as String of Tears or Teardrop Senecio, is a charming and unique trailing succulent admired for its delicate, bead-like leaves that cascade along slender stems. This visually appealing plant adds a touch of whimsical elegance to hanging baskets, shelves, and macrame hangers, making it a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts.
 
Key Features of String of Tears
Trailing Stems: The most distinctive feature is its long, slender, trailing stems that can grow several feet in length.
Teardrop-Shaped Leaves: The stems are adorned with small, fleshy, teardrop or oval-shaped leaves that resemble tiny green beads.
Semi-Translucent "Window": Each leaf often has a small, translucent "window" on its upper surface, which allows light to penetrate inside for photosynthesis.
Green Coloration: The leaves are typically a vibrant green, though the intensity can vary depending on light exposure.
Small White Flowers: Mature plants may occasionally produce small, white, daisy-like flowers with prominent stamens, often emitting a subtle cinnamon-like fragrance.
 
Care for Your String of Tears
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some gentle morning or late afternoon sun, intense midday sun can scorch the delicate leaves.
Soil: Requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering is a significant risk for this succulent. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to typical household humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
Handling with Care: The delicate stems and leaves can be easily damaged, so handle the plant gently.
Pruning: Pruning can be done to maintain shape, control length, or encourage bushier growth. Simply trim the stems as needed.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot only slightly larger with good drainage. Spring is usually the best time for repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common indoor plant pests like mealybugs and aphids. 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 healthy stem cuttings a few inches long, ensuring they have a few leaves. Allow the cut end to callus over for a day or two, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Leaf Cuttings: While possible, leaf propagation can be slower and less reliable. Gently detach healthy, plump leaves, allow the cut end to callus, and place them on top of well-draining soil. New plantlets may eventually emerge.
 
Senecio herreianus, the String of Tears, is a captivating and relatively easy-to-care-for trailing succulent that adds a unique and charming touch to any indoor plant collection. Its delicate, bead-like foliage and cascading growth habit make it a delightful plant to observe and cultivate.
 
 
Important Note: Kindly be aware that this plant is delicate in naturee and despite our best efforts in packaging, may experience some damage during shipping.
 
* 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.