Is String of Pearls toxic to pets?

Yes, the String of Pearls is toxic to cats, dogs. Keep it out of reach of pets.

Is String of Pearls easy to care for?

The String of Pearls is considered medium to care for. It has very low watering needs and grows at a fast rate.

Moderate Care Succulent ⚠️ Toxic to Pets

String of Pearls

Q: How much light does a String of Pearls need?

The String of Pearls needs bright indirect conditions. Provide bright indirect light with some morning direct sun; insufficient light causes the pearls to elongate and lose their round shape. Plant in a fast-draining succulent mix with extra perlite. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely -- roughly every 10-14 days in summer and less in winter. Overwatering causes the pearls to burst and stems to rot. Average to low humidity is ideal. Feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted succulent fertilizer. Propagate by laying stem cuttings on moist soil and pinning at the nodes.

Q: How often should I water my String of Pearls?

The String of Pearls has very low watering needs. Provide bright indirect light with some morning direct sun; insufficient light causes the pearls to elongate and lose their round shape. Plant in a fast-draining succulent mix with extra perlite. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely -- roughly every 10-14 days in summer and less in winter. Overwatering causes the pearls to burst and stems to rot. Average to low humidity is ideal. Feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted succulent fertilizer. Propagate by laying stem cuttings on moist soil and pinning at the nodes.

Also known as: Senecio Rowleyanus

Small

Fast Growth

Light

Bright Indirect

Water

Very Low

Humidity

Very Low

Size

Small

15-30 cm (6-12 in)

⚠️ Toxic to Pets

String of Pearls contains compounds that are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep this plant out of reach of pets, or consider a pet-safe alternative.

Care Requirements

Light Needs4/5

Water Needs1/5

Humidity Needs1/5

Maintenance3/5

Growth Speed5/5

Air Purifying1/5

About the String of Pearls

String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus, now Curio rowleyanus) is native to the dry regions of southwest Africa, where it creeps along the ground in the partial shade of rocks and other plants. Its trailing stems bear spherical, bead-like leaves with a translucent window stripe that allows light to reach the interior chlorophyll -- an adaptation for water storage and photosynthetic efficiency in arid habitats. In cultivation, cascading strands can trail over 60 cm, creating a striking waterfall effect from a hanging planter or high shelf.

Origin: South Africa

Care Tips

Provide bright indirect light with some morning direct sun; insufficient light causes the pearls to elongate and lose their round shape. Plant in a fast-draining succulent mix with extra perlite. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely -- roughly every 10-14 days in summer and less in winter. Overwatering causes the pearls to burst and stems to rot. Average to low humidity is ideal. Feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted succulent fertilizer. Propagate by laying stem cuttings on moist soil and pinning at the nodes.

Is This Plant Right for You?

Best For

Bright rooms with good natural light
Forgetful waterers
Desks, shelves, and small spaces
Sunny windowsills

Not Ideal For

Homes with curious pets

Compare with other plants Find pet-safe alternatives

String of Pearls compared with…

vs String of Bananas

Easier to grow

vs String of Dolphins

Grows slower

Compare String of Pearls with any other plant →

String of Pearls

⚠️ Toxic to Pets

Care Requirements

About the String of Pearls

Care Tips

Is This Plant Right for You?

Best For

Not Ideal For

String of Pearls compared with…

vs String of Bananas

vs String of Dolphins

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