String of Pearls
senecio rowleyanus
Also known as: ["String of Beads","Pearl Plant"]
Overview
A trailing succulent with spherical, bead-like leaves and delicate white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Senecio |
| Botanical Name: | Senecio rowleyanus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for brighter light.
Watering
every 7–10 days in warm months, every 14–21 days in cool months
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out completely between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures; avoid drafts or extreme fluctuations.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; use a humidifier in dry conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, water spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim stems just above a leaf node; pinch tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy or yellowing stems to encourage bushier growth and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/damaged stems; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering active growth.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing to every 14–21 days in fall/winter. Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes root rot due to reduced evaporation, and may lead to leaf drop.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSenecio rowleyanus is toxic to cats due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can cause severe liver damage and failure. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Senecio rowleyanus are toxic to dogs, causing liver damage and potential failure. Chronic exposure can lead to severe health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSenecio rowleyanus contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause liver damage upon ingestion. These compounds accumulate in the liver over time, leading to chronic liver disease and potential failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is String of Pearls toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water String of Pearls?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Can String of Pearls grow indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, indirect light indoors.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in warm mont |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
