“After the rain a rainbow appears – also known as string of rain-drops.”
String of Tears
Senecio Herreianus
Easy to propagate
Produces flowers
Easy to care for
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 that are often associated with tear-drops or rain-drops. A slow-growing house plant that like the String of Pearls adds interest to any home. We have listed String of Pearls and String of Beads separately due to their leaf shape, however all plants are considered part of the same family. In its natural habitat this plant produces a white daisy-like flower. I experienced this floral display for the first time this growing season. What you will find with this variety is that the tear-shaped leaves are varying sizes, whereas on the String of Pearls they are more consistent in size.
Position
Your String of Tears 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 tears 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 Tears’ sap may be 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 Tears 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 Tears 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 around five years, so with regular propagation you will be able to extend the life of your plant. Don’t worry if a tear-shaped leaf falls off, this can be re-planted – just squeeze it open to encourage new roots to form in the soil.
Repotting
You will know when your String of Tears 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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