Senecio rowleyanus

Senecio rowleyanus

String of Pearls

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Taxonomy

Common Names

String of PearlsPearl NecklaceString-of-beads

Context

nativeRegion

Southwestern Africa (Namibia)

usdaZones

10–12

companionPlants

Crassula ovata, Echeveria spp., Haworthia spp., Sedum morganianum

culturalUses

Primarily ornamental as a trailing houseplant; used in hanging baskets and decorative pots indoors.

Care

LightBright, indirect light is ideal. Can tolerate some direct sun indoors, but avoid harsh, midday light to prevent leaf scorching.

WateringWater thoroughly when the soil dries out. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid overwatering, as it is highly susceptible to root rot.

SoilWell-draining, sandy or cactus/succulent potting mix is preferred.

FertilizerFeed lightly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer once a month.

HumidityPrefers low to moderate humidity; high humidity is not required.

TemperatureIdeal range is 18–24°C (65–75°F); keep above 10°C (50°F) and avoid frost.

HabitTrailing succulent with pea-like bead leaves on long, slender stems.

Mature SizeStems can grow 60–90 cm (2–3 ft) long or more.

Growth RateModerate to fast grower under optimal conditions.

BloomingProduces small, white, cinnamon-scented flowers in summer to fall, though rarely flowers indoors.

DormancyDormant in winter with slower growth.

MethodsStem cuttings, Division

DifficultyEasy

Best SeasonSpring to summer

PruningPrune to control length or encourage fuller growth by snipping stems; cuttings can be propagated.

RepottingRepot every 2–3 years or when crowded, preferably in spring.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to root rot (overwatering), mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids.

ToxicityMildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested.