String of Pearls, Bead Plant

Senecio rowleyanus

No other plant looks like a String of Pearls that has its leaves grow into small round marbles. The String of Pearls is a vigorous grower that quickly covers the surface of its container and then will develop stems that hang over the sides of their pot. The plant only grows a few inches tall, but the trailing stems can extend over 24 inches long or more. Older string of pearls that get a cool resting period in the Winter sometimes produce small white flowers which carry a faint cinnamon scent.

LIGHT

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Bright light most of the year, but extra light during the Summer (2-4 hours) is beneficial, but be careful as not to sunburn the plant.

WATER

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In the Spring, Summer and Fall keep the soil slightly moist. In the Winter, allow soil to dry out between waterings. The beads will flatten if the plant is underwatered.

FERTILIZING

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In the Spring through late Summer, feed monthly with a well-balanced liquid fertilizer mixed at ½ the recommended strength. In the Fall and Winter, DO NOT feed.

NOTE:

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String of Pearls sap can be toxic to humans and pets. It can cause dermatitis or skin irritation in humans and lethargy or drooling in animals if they consume the plant. If your household have small children and pets, keep them away from this plant.