Light
Bright, indirect light. A little direct sun is fine, but strong direct sun can scorch the pearls. It won't thrive in low light.
Water
Water thoroughly, then let the soil dry out before watering again. Water less in winter. The pearls look a little shriveled when they're thirsty. If they shrivel while the soil is still wet, check the roots for rot.
Soil & pots
A gritty, fast-draining mix in a shallow pot. The roots are shallow, so a deep pot holds water they can't reach, and that's how rot starts.
Temperature
Normal room temperatures in summer. It likes a cooler winter rest, around 50–60°F (10–16°C). Keep it away from frost.
Is string of pearls safe for pets?
Toxic to cats and dogs. It's mildly toxic. Eating it can cause vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy, and the sap can irritate skin.
Propagation
Strands root easily. Roots form quickly at the nodes where the pearls join the stem.
- Snip a few stem tips, each 3–4 inches long.
- Strip 3 or 4 pearls off the bottom of each.
- Lay the cuttings on lightly moist gritty mix and cover the bare nodes with a little mix.
- Mist the surface until roots form. Don't soak it.
Common problems
FAQ
Is string of pearls toxic to cats?
Yes, mildly. The ASPCA lists it as a toxic succulent. Eating it can cause vomiting and lethargy. Hang it out of reach, and call your vet if your cat eats some.
Why is my string of pearls dying?
Most often from too much water. A deep pot makes it worse, because the shallow roots can't dry the soil fast enough. If the pearls are shriveled and the soil is still wet, check for root rot.
Is string of pearls the same as string of dolphins?
No. String of dolphins is a separate hybrid plant, with curved leaves shaped like leaping dolphins rather than round beads.
Sources
- Curio rowleyanus (H.Jacobsen) P.V.Heath: Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
- Curio rowleyanus: North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- Are Succulents Safe to Have Around Pets?: ASPCA
- String of Pearls, Curio rowleyanus: Wisconsin Horticulture, UW–Madison Extension
- Curio rowleyanus: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder