What is the String of Hearts?
“String of Pearls” succulent (Senecio rowleyanus) is a trailing plant that is prized for its long, delicate stems that are covered in small, round leaves that resemble pearls. It is native to Madagascar and is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance and ease of care.
The plant grows best in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Drought tolerant and should only be watered when the soil is completely dry. The plant is also low maintenance and can be easily propagated by cutting and planting a stem in a new pot. It is important to handle the plant with care as the stems and leaves are delicate and can break easily.
Is There A Benefit From Growing String of Pearls Indoors?
“String of Pearls” (Senecio rowleyanus) is a popular indoor plant for several reasons:
- Low maintenance: it does not require regular watering or pruning and can adapt to a range of lighting conditions, making it a great option for those who don’t have a green thumb.
- Unique appearance: The plant features small, round, green leaves that resemble pearls, hanging from thin stems that can trail several feet long, creating a unique and attractive display.
- Air purifying: Like many houseplants, “String of Pearls” helps purify the air by removing harmful pollutants and releasing fresh oxygen.
- Easy to propagate: The plant can be easily propagated by cutting a stem and planting it in soil, making it a fun and cheap way to add more greenery to your home.
Overall, “String of Pearls” is a great choice for those looking for a low-maintenance, attractive, and air-purifying indoor plant.
Dimensions:
The size and dimensions of the succulent can vary depends on the growing conditions and the age of the plant. However, on average, a mature plant can reach up to 3 feet in length and have stems that are 1-3 inches long. The individual leaves are small, round, and measure 0.25-0.5 inches in diameter.
The overall dimensions of the plant will depend on how it is grown, whether it is in a hanging basket or in a container on a shelf or windowsill.
Zones:
Senecio rowleyanusis native to Madagascar and is not frost hardy. Typically grown as a houseplant or in temperate climates in zones 10-11, where temperatures do not fall below freezing. Areas with colder climates grow indoors where temperatures are controlled and protected from frost. However, If grown outside in a warmer climate, it is recommended to provide the plant with bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
The “String of Pearls” succulent is not suitable for outdoor cultivation in most temperate climates as it is not able to withstand frost or freezing temperatures.
How to Care:
How To Care For String Of Pearls Indoors
Here are the basic steps how to take care of string of pearls plant indoors:
- Light: The plant prefers bright, indirect light, but can tolerate low light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves.
- Watering: Drought tolerant and should only be watered when the soil is completely dry. Over-watering can cause root rot and kill the plant.
- Soil: Use a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. The plant prefers a slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5.
- Humidity: Not particular about humidity levels, but will benefit from occasional misting to increase humidity.
- Fertilizing: The plant does not need to be fertilized frequently. It is recommended to feed the plant once a month with a balanced succulent fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Pruning: Prune stems as needed to control the size and shape of the plant. Pruning also encourages branching and fuller growth.
- String of Pearls Propagation: Easy to propagate by cutting a stem and planting it in a new pot. However, let the cut end dry for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil.
By following these guidelines, you can keep your “String of Pearls” succulent healthy and thriving.
Outdoor Care
Here are the basic steps to grow outside in a warm climate:
- Location: Provide the plant with bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves.
- Watering: Drought tolerant and should only be watered when the soil is completely dry. Over-watering can cause root rot and kill the plant.
- Soil: Use a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. The plant prefers a slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5.
- Humidity: Is not particular about humidity levels.
- Fertilizing: The plant does not need to be fertilized frequently. It is recommended to feed the plant once a month with a balanced succulent fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Pruning: Prune stems as needed to control the size and shape of the plant. Pruning also encourages branching and fuller growth.
- Protection: Not frost hardy and should be protected from freezing temperatures. If a frost is expected, bring the plant indoors or cover it with a frost cloth.
By following these guidelines, you can grow your “String of Pearls” succulent successfully outside in a warm climate.
Where to Purchase String of Pearls?
You can buy this at our Esty shop. Happy Shopping!!
