String of pearls (*Curio rowleyanus*) is a distinctive trailing succulent native to the dry regions of southwest Africa. Its delicate, cascading stems are densely lined with round, pea-shaped leaves that store moisture to survive prolonged drought. Each bead features a subtle, translucent epidermal window along its side, an evolutionary adaptation that channels sunlight deep into the leaf interior for photosynthesis while minimizing surface exposure to dry desert winds.
In its natural habitat, this plant creeps along the ground forming dense mats, but in home cultivation it is celebrated as an elegant hanging specimen. The hanging vines can gracefully drape two to three feet below the container, creating an eye-catching architectural display. For vigorous growth, it requires abundant indirect sunlight and excellent air circulation, particularly around the crown of the pot, which prevents stale air and moisture accumulation.
The primary challenge in maintaining this succulent is managing moisture levels. Its shallow, fine root system is exceptionally sensitive to overwatering and will rot rapidly in dense, waterlogged soil. Planting it in a breathable unglazed terracotta pot with gritty, fast-draining substrate makes all the difference. Given the right care routine, string of pearls rewards growers with lush, cascading foliage and occasional small, cinnamon-scented white flowers in spring.
Did you know?The spherical leaves feature a tiny translucent slit called an epidermal window, which allows sunlight to enter the interior of the leaf while minimizing water loss.
Care
- Watering
- Water deeply only after the entire potting mix has completely dried out and the pearls begin to feel slightly soft or look puckered. In winter, reduce watering frequency significantly to roughly once every three or four weeks.
- Light
- Provide plenty of bright, indirect sunlight, along with a few hours of gentle morning sun. Protect the foliage from harsh afternoon direct sun, which can scorch the delicate spheres.
- Temperature
- Keep the plant in an ideal temperature range between 15 °C and 25 °C year-round. It can withstand short dips down to 10 °C, but it must be kept safe from frost and chilly drafts.
- Soil
- Use a sharply draining cactus and succulent mix amended with coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to prevent moisture retention.
- Fertilizer
- Feed with a balanced succulent fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month throughout the spring and summer growing season.
- Pruning
- Trim back leggy or bare strands in spring to encourage fuller growth and maintain a tidy shape.
- Propagation
- Take stem cuttings of about four inches and lay them directly on slightly moist succulent soil. They root readily from leaf nodes within a few weeks when given bright, filtered light.
Is String of pearls toxic to cats and dogs?
The ASPCA doesn't list this species. If your pet has chewed it and seems unwell, call your vet.
Common problems
- Root rot
- Overwatering
- Too little light
- Mealybugs and scale
- Sunburn
Frequently asked questions
Why are the pearls shriveling up?
Shriveling is typically a sign of thirst if the potting mix is bone dry, meaning the plant needs a thorough drink. However, if the pearls feel mushy and the stem base is brown, overwatering has rotted the roots and prevented moisture uptake.
Why is the top of the plant going bald?
This usually happens when the top of the pot does not receive enough overhead light, causing the crown stems to weaken and die back. Lower the pot relative to the light source and coil trailing strands over the bare soil so they can root and create new growth.
How do I know when it is time to water?
Check the firmness and shape of the beads; when fully hydrated, they appear plump, firm, and round. Wait to water until the spheres soften slightly and show faint puckering along their epidermal windows.
Why are the pearls falling off easily?
Beads dropping off at the slightest touch almost always indicates chronic overwatering or poorly draining soil. The resulting root damage prevents proper nutrient transport and weakens the connection between the leaves and the vine.
Growing String of pearls at home?
Take a photo and we'll tell you how it's doing and what it needs.