String of Dolphins

senecio peregrinus

Also known as: ["Dolphin Plant","Dolphin String"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Senecio Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A unique succulent with leaves shaped like dolphins swimming along trailing stems.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Senecio
Botanical Name: Senecio peregrinus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright location with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Collectors & Enthusiasts Indoor Plant Lovers Pet Owners (non Toxic Plants Only)
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Cactus or succulent mix with added perlite for drainage.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun with afternoon shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place near east-facing windows indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

easy

Sunlight

bright indirect light, with some direct morning sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water early in the day to reduce evaporation.

Soil

well-draining, sandy potting mix with added perlite or pumice

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.

Temperature

Ideal range 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C) with protection from extremes.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable indoor temps.

Fertilizing

every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain moisture.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, indirect light.

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

Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster roots.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier form; maintain shape and health.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Use fresh well-draining soil; trim roots if necessary; ensure pot has drainage holes.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; prevents root-bound issues.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

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, stunted growth, or yellowing leaves.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; use shade cloth outdoors.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Senecio peregrinus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's overall health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Senecio peregrinus can result from underwatering, overwatering, or root damage, causing the plant to lose turgidity and potentially leading to permanent damage if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Senecio peregrinus may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to aesthetic damage and potentially weakening the plant if the spots coalesce or spread.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Senecio peregrinus due to excessive moisture, leading to decay, loss of structural integrity, and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Senecio peregrinus is toxic to cats due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can lead to severe liver damage and failure. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds, and ingestion can be fatal.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy anorexia jaundice liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from cats. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Dogs
Toxic

The pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Senecio peregrinus are highly toxic to dogs, causing severe liver damage and potential liver failure. Even small amounts can be harmful, with effects becoming apparent over time.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite jaundice liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from dogs. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Senecio peregrinus contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause severe liver damage upon ingestion. These compounds accumulate in the liver over time, leading to chronic liver disease and potential failure.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain jaundice liver damage
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Wear gloves when handling to prevent accidental ingestion.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Senecio peregrinus toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should I water Senecio peregrinus?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Q: Can Senecio peregrinus be grown indoors?

A: Yes, it thrives in bright, indirect light indoors.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: moderate
Light: bright indirect light, with so
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","collectors/enthusiasts","indoor plant lovers","pet owners (non-toxic plants only)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Sea Chamomile
View
Willowleaf Lettuce
View
String of Bananas
View
Strawflower
View