String of Pearls

Senecio rowleyanusAlso known as: String of Beads, Rosary Plant, Bead Plant

The String of Pearls is a unique trailing succulent with spherical, pea-shaped leaves along delicate stems. Native to Southwest Africa, it cascades beautifully from hanging baskets. Vines can trail 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) and the plant produces small, cinnamon-scented white flowers.

Moderate Care

Bright Indirect Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Bright Indirect Light

Temperature Range
50-80°F (10-27°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Toxic to Pets

This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets, or consider pet-safe alternatives. Symptoms of ingestion may include drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 10-14 days, when soil is completely dry
Summer	Every 7-10 days
Fall	Every 14-21 days
Winter	Every 21-28 days

Pearls flatten or shrivel when thirsty. Overwatering is the most common killer - soil must dry between waterings.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Monthly with diluted succulent fertilizer
Summer	Monthly at quarter-strength
Fall	No fertilizing
Winter	No fertilizing

Very light feeder. Over-fertilizing causes sparse growth.

Pruning

Frequency: As needed

Best Season: Any time

Trim sparse or dying strands. Coil cuttings on soil surface to create fuller plant.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 2-3 years

Best Season: Spring

Use shallow pot with excellent drainage. Succulent/cactus mix with extra perlite. Handle gently.

Flowering

Season
Summer in mature plants

Color
Small white flowers with cinnamon scent

Tiny daisy-like flowers with red stamens. Sweetly fragrant.

Propagation Methods

Stem cuttings laid on moist soil
Coil strands on soil and pin down at nodes
Roots develop at leaf nodes

Common Problems

Mushy pearls: Overwatering - reduce immediately
Shriveled pearls: Underwatering or root issues
Sparse growth: Insufficient light
Brown pearls: Sunburn from direct sun or cold damage

Pro Tips

Bottom watering prevents crown rot
Bright indirect light produces most compact growth
Fill in sparse tops by coiling cuttings on soil
Easy to propagate - share with friends

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