String of Pearls Plant Care Guide: How to Grow & Love Senecio rowleyanus
Looking for a succulent that's a total conversation piece? Meet the String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)—a trailing wonder with bead-like foliage that looks straight out of a design magazine. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious newbie, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to keep your pearls plump, thriving, and happy.
Quick Facts
(More detailed Information below)
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Botanical Name: Senecio rowleyanus (also known as Curio rowleyanus)
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Common Name: String of Pearls
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Light: Bright, indirect light to direct morning sun
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Water: Infrequently—only when soil is completely dry
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Soil: Well-draining cactus/succulent mix
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Pet Friendly? Nope. Toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested.
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Difficulty Level: Moderate (easier with the right setup!)
What Is the String of Pearls Plant?
String of Pearls is a trailing succulent native to southwest Africa. It’s named for its round, pearl-like leaves that cascade down stems, making it perfect for hanging baskets or trailing off shelves. Those spherical "pearls" aren’t just cute—they store water, making this plant surprisingly drought-tolerant.
This quirky succulent has gained serious popularity on Instagram and Pinterest, but don’t be fooled by the aesthetic—it has some specific needs. Get those right, and it’ll reward you with vines that can grow several feet long.
How to Care for String of Pearls
Light
Pearls like it bright. Aim for:
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Bright, indirect light indoors (south or west-facing windows are ideal). Use a grow light if you don't have a space for enough light.
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A few hours of direct morning sun is beneficial.
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If outdoors (in summer), place it in dappled sun or partial shade.
Not enough light = leggy stems and small, shriveled pearls.
Watering
Overwatering is the #1 killer of this plant.
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Let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
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Use the "lift test"—if the pot feels light, it's time.
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Water thoroughly, then drain. Never let it sit in water.
- Use a moisture meter to help you if you struggle with when to water.
In winter: cut back even more. Water once every 2–4 weeks depending on your home’s humidity.
Soil
Well-draining soil is non-negotiable. Use:
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Optional: Add perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve drainage.
String of Pearls is prone to root rot if soil stays soggy.
Temperature & Humidity
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Prefers 18–24°C (65–75°F).
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Can tolerate down to 10°C (50°F).
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No high humidity required—average indoor levels are perfect.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly during growing season (spring/summer):
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Use a diluted succulent fertilizer every 4–6 weeks.
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Skip feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
Pruning & Propagation
Want a fuller plant or need to tame unruly vines?
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Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth.
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Snip off healthy strands and propagate:
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Lay cuttings on top of moist soil (press pearls gently into the mix).
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Keep slightly moist until rooted (about 2–3 weeks).
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Common Problems with String of Pearls
Mushy or Shrivelling Pearls?
Likely overwatered. Check for root rot. Let dry and repot in fresh, dry soil if needed.
Stringy or Leggy Growth?
Needs more light. Move closer to a window or supplement with a grow light.
Pests
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Mealybugs and aphids can show up.
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Treat with insecticidal soap
Pet Safety
Bad news: this plant is toxic to pets. If chewed or ingested, it can cause vomiting, lethargy, or diarrhea in cats, dogs, and humans. Best kept out of reach or in pet-free homes.
Styling Tips
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Pop it in a hanging basket and let those vines cascade.
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Use a macramé hanger for boho vibes.
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Place it on a high shelf for a lush green waterfall effect.
FAQs: String of Pearls Edition
Why are my pearls shriveling?
Shriveling can mean underwatering OR overwatering. Check the soil. If it’s dry, give a deep soak. If it’s wet, you may have root rot—repot immediately.
How fast does String of Pearls grow?
In the right conditions, it grows quickly during spring and summer—expect up to 12–15 inches per year.
Can I grow String of Pearls in water?
Technically, yes—you can root cuttings in water. But long-term? Not ideal. It’s best grown in soil for proper drainage.
Does it flower?
Yep! Tiny white flowers that smell faintly of cinnamon or cloves (if you're lucky enough to get blooms).
Can I put String of Pearls outside?
Yes, in summer months—just be sure it’s sheltered from intense midday sun and brought indoors before temps drop below 10°C (50°F).
Final Thoughts
The String of Pearls is like that high-maintenance friend who just needs the right environment to shine. Once you nail the light and watering routine, it’s one of the most rewarding plants you can grow. Whether you're looking to fill a sunny corner or show off your propagation skills, this succulent delivers drama, charm, and serious design vibes.
Need a plant rehab? We’ve got sticky traps, soil blends, root rot treatments, and all the plant-care essentials. Talk dirt to us—we’ll help your pearls shine again.