“We affectionately call this the weedy one.”
String of Beads
Senecio Herreianus
Easy to care for
Easy to propagate
Close relation to String of Pearls
Originates
South Africa but like our other trailing succulents has started to make itself at home across the UK.
Overview
This succulent takes its name from having oval, bead-like leaves but perhaps not as defined roundness like the String of Pearls, hence the reason for us playfully calling it ‘weedy’. A slow-growing house plant that adds interest to any home. We have chosen to list String of Beads, String of Pearls and String of Tears separately due to the shape of their leaves, however all plants are considered part of the same family. Whilst this plant in its natural habitat produces a white scented flower, we have never experienced this with our house-raised String of Beads.
Position
Your String of Beads will be happiest in a sunny window, in a pot where the plant’s growth next to the soil can absorb daylight at all times. With its trailing beads you may find it best placed on a shelf or in a pot designed with a raised stand to protect and display the new growth. The String of Beads’ sap is considered toxic so keep out of reach of pets or young children. When handling your plant gardening gloves are recommended.
Watering
As with other succulents String of Beads actually thrive with less watering. To avoid over-watering make sure the soil around the roots is completely dry first. This plant holds its moisture within the tear-shaped leaves, so you will be able to see when water is required. Across the Winter you may find your plant needs watering only once a month.
How to make plant fuller
The String of Beads is easy to propagate to make your plant appear fuller. Take a short cutting c.2cm from the end of your plant and place it directly back into the soil. This process will encourage new shoots to form within a matter of weeks. This is a useful way to make your plant appear fuller, but also because the average lifespan is c.5 years, so with regular propagation you will be able to extend the life of your plant. Don’t worry if a bead-shaped leaf falls off, this can be re-planted.
Repotting
You will know when your String of Beads requires a new pot or refreshed soil, as it may stop growing, look weaker or less healthy than the previous season. A peat-free cactus or succulent mix is recommended to encourage the right level of drainage for this succulent.
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