String of Pearls
Senecio rowleyanus
Cascading strings of perfect round pearls — a stunning hanging succulent that's as unique as it is beautiful.
Overview
String of Pearls is one of the most distinctive and sought-after succulents available. Its trailing stems are lined with perfectly round, bead-like leaves that store water — giving the plant its iconic pearl necklace appearance. Native to the dry regions of Southwest Africa, it's adapted to drought and is very susceptible to overwatering. When happy, it cascades beautifully from hanging baskets and can trail several feet long.
Care Requirements
Light
Bright Indirect Light — some direct morning sun is beneficial
Water
Every 2–3 weeks — allow soil to dry completely; very susceptible to overwatering
Humidity
Low — prefers dry conditions
Soil
Cactus/succulent mix — excellent drainage is essential
Temperature
70–80°F (21–27°C) — sensitive to cold
Fertilizer
Diluted succulent fertilizer once in spring and once in summer
Detailed Care Guide
Light
- Needs bright indirect light — a spot near a bright window is ideal
- Some direct morning sun (1–2 hours) is beneficial and keeps the pearls plump
- Avoid harsh afternoon direct sun which can shrivel the pearls
- Insufficient light causes the pearls to become elongated and sparse
Watering
- Water every 2–3 weeks — allow soil to dry completely between waterings
- This is one of the most overwatered plants — when in doubt, wait another week
- Water thoroughly when you do water, then allow to drain completely
- In winter, reduce to once a month or less
Soil
- Cactus/succulent mix is essential — drainage is critical
- Add 30–50% coarse sand or perlite for extra drainage
- Never use moisture-retaining potting mixes
- Shallow pots work well — String of Pearls has shallow roots
Temperature & Humidity
- Prefers 70–80°F (21–27°C) — more temperature-sensitive than most succulents
- Cold sensitive — avoid temperatures below 50°F
- Prefers low humidity — high humidity combined with wet soil causes rot
- Keep away from cold drafts and AC vents
Difficulty Level
Easy — once you master the watering schedule (less than you think), String of Pearls is very rewarding. The main challenge is resisting the urge to overwater. When in doubt, wait.
Extra Notes
Toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested — causes GI upset and lethargy. Keep out of reach of pets and children. Handle gently — the pearls detach easily and the plant can look sparse if handled roughly. The pearls are actually modified leaves that store water.
Pro Tip
When propagating, lay strands directly on top of dry cactus mix and mist lightly every few days — do NOT water heavily. The nodes will root into the soil on their own within 2–3 weeks.
New to this plant?
Just Received This Plant?
If you just received a cutting or node: do NOT root in water — String of Pearls rots easily in water. Lay the strand on top of dry or barely moist cactus mix. Press the nodes (where pearls attach to the stem) gently into the soil. Do not bury the pearls. Keep in bright indirect light and mist lightly every few days. Roots form in 2–3 weeks. Once established, resume normal watering (every 2–3 weeks). Patience is key — these root slowly but are worth it.
If you just received a potted plant: unbox gently — the pearls detach easily. Place in bright indirect light with some morning sun. Do not water for 1 week after arrival — let the plant settle in. Check that the pot has excellent drainage. Expect some pearl drop during adjustment — this is normal. Do not fertilize for 6–8 weeks. Handle as little as possible while it adjusts.
Basic Care Instructions
Place in bright indirect light with some morning sun, water every 2–3 weeks allowing soil to dry completely, and keep in low humidity. Fertilize twice a year (spring and summer). Handle gently and resist the urge to overwater.
Propagation
Lay a strand on top of moist cactus mix and press nodes gently into soil. Keep lightly moist until roots form (2–3 weeks). Can also root in water but soil propagation is more reliable.
Common Problems & Fixes
Shriveling pearls
Underwatering — water thoroughly and allow to drain completely
Mushy, translucent pearls
Overwatering or root rot — reduce watering immediately and check roots
Pearls dropping off
Overwatering, too much direct sun, or physical damage — adjust care and handle gently
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