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String of Pearls care

Senecio Rowleyanus

String of Pearls — Senecio Rowleyanus houseplant

Cascading strands of small, round green beads that spill over the edge of a pot like a living necklace. String of pearls is a trailing succulent — it wants bright light and to dry out between waterings, and it looks stunning in a hanging planter.

Heads up — String of Pearls is toxic to cats and dogs per ASPCA data. Keep it out of reach of pets, and check our toxicity checker for pet-safe alternatives.

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal — a spot near a bright window keeps it full and trailing. It tolerates some direct morning sun, but harsh midday sun can shrivel the pearls.

Too little light and the strands grow sparse and stretched between beads.

Water

Let the soil dry out completely between waterings — those little pearls hold water, so it prefers a dry-out to constant moisture. Every 2 weeks is typical; less in winter.

Overwatering rots it fast. When in doubt, wait — a slightly shriveled pearl is a sign to water; a mushy one is a sign you've watered too much.

Soil & pot

A fast-draining mix — cactus soil or potting mix cut heavily with perlite and sand. A drainage hole is essential. A shallow pot suits its shallow roots.

Humidity & temperature

It likes it dry and warm — 65–80°F. Average home humidity is perfect; it doesn't need misting. Keep it away from cold drafts.

Propagation

Lay a strand on top of moist soil and it'll root at the nodes where pearls meet the stem, or snip a cutting and tuck the cut end into soil. It roots readily.

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AskThumbs provides general educational hobby information, not guarantees. Plant and pet outcomes depend on factors we can't see. Use at your own risk. For a sick pet, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately.

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